The hottest Political Commentary Substack posts right now

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Top U.S. Politics Topics

The Media's Mental Gymnastics Before Election Day

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 1159 implied HN points • 02 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Elections Public Opinion Political Commentary Economy
  1. The media often interprets statements from public figures differently depending on their political stance. They might exaggerate comments from one side while downplaying those from another.
  2. There have been significant issues with job growth lately, with reports showing a very low number of jobs created. Most of the new jobs have been in government, which doesn't help the overall economy much.
  3. As the election approaches, media coverage tends to focus on distractions instead of important economic issues. This affects how voters perceive the situation.

All These Israeli Agendas Were Planned Long In Advance

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 526 implied HN points • 26 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Military Affairs Political Commentary International relations Geopolitics
  1. Israel has clear long-term goals in the Middle East and they are taking military actions to achieve them. This includes strengthening their position in Syria and Lebanon while pushing for changes in Gaza and the West Bank.
  2. The narrative around military and political support often has misleading implications. Support for certain countries or actions can sometimes be used to justify violence against innocent people.
  3. There are skeptical views on public figures and their true motives, especially in politics and media. People should be cautious about trusting narratives that seem convenient for powerful interests.

Only fools think Elon is incompetent

Noahpinion • 54000 implied HN points • 23 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Public Figures Media Analysis Society
  1. Elon Musk is highly intelligent and has proven his capabilities through successful companies like SpaceX and Tesla. People underestimate him at their own risk.
  2. Real-world skills, like building organizations and inspiring teams, are more important than test scores for success in business. Elon excels in these areas.
  3. Criticism of Elon often stems from jealousy or misunderstanding of his talents. Just calling him 'dumb' won't change the reality of his achievements.

It's time for Europe to stand up

Noahpinion • 39412 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Defense Strategy Political Commentary Democracy issues International relations
  1. Europe needs to take on more responsibility for its own security since the U.S. is focusing on threats in Asia instead of Europe. It's time for European countries to step up and lead.
  2. There are major concerns about Europe's internal values and democratic principles. Leaders are worried that Europe might be losing sight of its core values and need to address these issues.
  3. To face threats like Russia and improve its economy, Europe needs to boost military spending and strengthen its economy. Better cooperation between countries and attracting skilled immigrants could help.

Trump is Trolling the AP

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 11641 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Media Criticism Censorship Trump Era Journalism
  1. The Associated Press claims the White House is telling them how to report, which some see as censorship. This seems ironic since the AP has always had strict rules about language in their articles.
  2. People are discussing how Trump is mocking the AP's situation, pointing out the contradiction in their messages about free speech.
  3. There's a lot of debate about what it means for the government and the media to control language and how it affects honest reporting.
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Allow Me A Brief Burst Of Angry Moralizing

Singal-Minded • 2246 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Debate International Aid Government funding Political Commentary
  1. Cutting funding to programs like USAID can lead to serious harm, like people getting sick or even dying. This shows that spending decisions need to be thought out carefully.
  2. It's important for people in power to understand what their cuts will affect, especially for vulnerable groups relying on aid. Making big changes without warning causes unnecessary suffering.
  3. Making cuts for cost savings can backfire and end up costing more in the long run. Leaders should focus on thoughtful policy instead of quick-fix solutions that create more problems.

THE SHOW NOTES: The Garbage Man, Van Jones Blasts Progressives, & 60 Million Votes

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 879 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Campaigns Political Commentary Voter Turnout Government Policies
  1. Donald Trump is using humor to respond to Joe Biden's comments about his supporters, even campaigning in a garbage truck. It's a way to turn the insult into a joke.
  2. Van Jones is criticizing progressives who support Hamas, highlighting divisions within political movements. His remarks show a need for clearer stances on complex issues.
  3. Early voting is already high with around 60 million Americans having voted, but this doesn't guarantee the outcome of the election. It's a reminder that early numbers can be misleading.

President Biden Literally Calls Half of America "Garbage"

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 2098 implied HN points • 30 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Commentary Media Trust Public Opinion Political Rhetoric
  1. President Biden called Trump supporters 'garbage,' which many are interpreting as an insult to about half of the country.
  2. After his comments, the White House tried to clarify Biden's words but many think this just caused more confusion.
  3. There's growing distrust in the media as they seem to cover up or spin what Biden said, which reflects a larger issue of credibility in journalism.

TGIF: War Games

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 4020 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Elections Government War Political Commentary
  1. Trump suggests that the U.S. should step back from supporting Ukraine and that Europe should take more responsibility for its own defense. He criticizes the spending involved and questions the effectiveness of current strategies.
  2. Sanna Marin, Finland's former prime minister, agrees that it's reasonable for Americans to ask why they should pay more for Europe's security. She believes Europe needs to strengthen its own defense capabilities.
  3. There are ongoing discussions about the long-term implications of the Ukraine conflict and the need for a new approach, as the war has dragged on with significant human costs and little indication of a quick resolution.

The Garbage Comment

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 1318 implied HN points • 30 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Election Analysis Public Opinion Media Criticism Political strategy
  1. Biden called Trump supporters 'garbage', which upset many people and created a bit of chaos in the White House.
  2. A lot of voters, only 28%, think the country is going in the right direction, which is low for an incumbent party.
  3. Instead of sharing their plans to improve things, Biden and some of Harris's supporters are focusing on negative comments about Trump supporters.

Too Much Of What Happened Was Not Normal

Emerald Robinson’s The Right Way • 3293 implied HN points • 28 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Elections Biden administration Civil Rights Media influence
  1. A lot of what is happening today doesn't feel normal, and many people are concerned about the state of leadership. It suggests that people question the actions and decisions of current political leaders.
  2. Some believe that the government and big tech are working together to control information and limit free speech. This creates fear and distrust among the public.
  3. Many people feel that they can voice their opinions and protest against current leaders, believing they have the right to influence how their country is run. There's a sense of disillusionment with authority.

At least five interesting things: Chaos Blitz edition (#59)

Noahpinion • 15647 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Elections Government Policy Political Commentary Public Opinion
  1. Trump's recent actions create a lot of chaos in government, making it hard for institutions like FEMA and scientific research to function properly. There's concern that this unpredictability could harm everyday services.
  2. Despite some claims to the contrary, U.S. economic data is generally reliable and shows that the economy is doing well, with improvements in wages and job opportunities for most Americans.
  3. China is becoming strong in technology by having multiple industries that support each other, which poses a challenge for U.S. companies because they don’t have the same kind of interconnected industrial ecosystem.

When the Edge Lords Lead

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 1838 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Elections Campaign strategies Voter Behavior Media influence
  1. The people leading Trump's events tend to be edgy and enjoy making shocking jokes, which can backfire with voters. They don’t seem to recognize how their humor might upset others.
  2. Comedian Tony Hinchcliffe made a joke that offended many, and his humor reflects how tone-deaf these leaders are to wider voter opinions. This can be risky for Trump’s campaign.
  3. As the election approaches, every mistake could sway undecided voters, so it's crucial for campaigns to focus on appealing to all potential supporters, not just their base.

Dingus of the Week: Kristi Noem

Men Yell at Me • 372 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Government Protest Elections Immigration
  1. Laughter can help us cope with tough political situations. It’s important to find humor even in serious moments.
  2. There are strong reactions and protests against the government's actions, especially regarding immigration. People are standing up to defend their rights.
  3. Kristi Noem is criticized for her actions and comments related to fascism and racism. It's important to address how individuals can misuse their power.

What's Behind Trump's War on Science?

Richard Hanania's Newsletter • 731 implied HN points • 12 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Analysis Political Commentary Populism
  1. The Trump administration cut science funding significantly, with research funding dropping drastically in many fields. This has created a crisis for the National Science Foundation.
  2. The slow distribution of research funds is linked to both incompetence and a focus on politically favored themes. This shows a lack of value for basic research.
  3. Overall, this issue reflects broader problems with populism, where anger can lead to harm without clear targets, often causing more chaos than resolution.

Trump's Parade of Horribles

Slack Tide by Matt Labash • 189 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Government Political Commentary Social Issues
  1. Trump's upcoming parade events are portrayed as outlandish and satirical, highlighting how his presidency has been characterized by unusual spectacles.
  2. There is a sense of irony in how the military is being politicized for show, reflecting on the nature of political power and display.
  3. The tone suggests a critical view of Trump's antics and compares him to dictators who use grand displays for personal gain.

You Don't Actually Need To Pick A Team

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1839 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Elections Political Ideology Corruption Media influence
  1. You don't need to choose between political parties like Democrats and Republicans. They both operate under a corrupt system that doesn't serve the people's best interests.
  2. All politicians, regardless of their party, are part of a larger empire that causes harm. You shouldn't expect any of them to truly represent you or be your friend.
  3. Real change won't come from voting for leaders within a broken system. It requires understanding the issues and working together to challenge existing power structures.

Anyone Who Wants The Ukraine War To Continue Is A Monster

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2333 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Military conflict Political Commentary Public Opinion
  1. The Ukraine war needs to end because many Ukrainians want peace. Wishing for the war to continue is seen as cruel and inhumane.
  2. The leaders responsible for escalating this conflict should be held accountable for their actions. Their decisions have led to immense suffering and chaos.
  3. There's a concern that those who caused this crisis will not face any consequences, which raises fears about future conflicts. We need to demand better leadership for a peaceful world.

Meditations On The Notion That Obama "Never Had Any Scandals"

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2249 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Media Critique Public Perception Historical Analysis Government Accountability
  1. Barack Obama is often seen as scandal-free compared to other presidents, but this ignores serious actions he took that caused harm. Many people focus more on political feelings rather than real events.
  2. A lot of Americans don't recognize the destructive consequences of U.S. actions abroad, viewing them as problems only for other countries. This shows a disconnect from the reality of global issues.
  3. The media and social platforms shape our thoughts and beliefs, leading to a limited understanding of what's really happening. It’s important to question and think critically to have a clearer view of the world.

Pervy Voters

Magic + Loss • 516 implied HN points • 30 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Voting Political Behavior Political Commentary Party Politics
  1. Some voters make choices just to be rebellious, not because they truly believe in a candidate or party. They might want to shock people or go against the norm.
  2. Voting is usually about practical interests, like money or personal benefits, rather than just trying to be edgy or nonconformist.
  3. Spite can drive people to vote against their own values or interests, which can have serious consequences for democracy.

Niall Ferguson: J.D. Vance Picked a Fight in Germany. Will He Get One in China?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 3389 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Political Commentary International relations Trade Relations Elections
  1. J.D. Vance is taking a bold approach by challenging foreign powers, notably at the Munich Security Conference. This kind of confrontation could signal a shift in U.S. foreign policy.
  2. America's previous attempts to provoke negotiations with other countries often went unanswered. Historically, many nations haven't reacted strongly, showing a lack of willingness to engage.
  3. The current administration seems to be looking for conflicts to assert its stance on the global stage. This strategy might change how the U.S. is perceived internationally.

Democrats should not be kissing up to Musk

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 3164 implied HN points • 06 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political parties Electoral Politics Public Policy Political Commentary Media influence
  1. Democrats should think carefully before welcoming Elon Musk back into their fold. His actions and views may harm the party's credibility in the long run.
  2. Trying to make alliances with rich and controversial figures like Musk can make voters feel like the party stands for nothing important.
  3. Musk is mainly looking out for himself, and cozying up to him may not be a smart move for progressive leaders.

THE SHOW NOTES: Trump at MSG, The Disturbing Ad, & Nick Bosa

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 1179 implied HN points • 28 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Events Elections Public Opinion Media influence Political Commentary
  1. Donald Trump held a big rally at Madison Square Garden with many well-known guests. Some people were not happy with a comedian's controversial jokes at the event.
  2. The Israeli military attacked Iran's air defense systems as part of a response, but they chose not to target major facilities like nuclear sites after pressure from the U.S.
  3. Kamala Harris is pushing for changes in how female leaders are described in reports, but an internal review found no significant bias in the language used.

TGIF: Be (My Limestone) Mine?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 4920 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Efficiency Policy Culture Political Commentary
  1. Elon Musk's team is trying to modernize government processes, like digitizing how federal employee retirements are handled. This could save time and money compared to current methods that involve a lot of manual labor.
  2. There's a focus on cutting unnecessary expenses, like the cost of minting pennies, which is more than their value. Efforts are being made to remove these inefficiencies.
  3. A young adviser at the State Department, known as 'Big Balls,' has gained attention for his unusual online name. This sparked discussions in the media, showcasing how things can get blown out of proportion in public conversations.

Spare Me Your Outrage

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 2857 implied HN points • 24 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Elections Political parties Public Opinion Political Rhetoric
  1. People often label their opponents in politics with extreme names, like calling Republicans 'Hitler'.
  2. Some argue that this kind of name-calling only shows hypocrisy and lack of self-awareness in political discourse.
  3. There is a feeling among some that both sides are acting authoritarian, even while accusing each other of the same.

Americans Stir Up Trouble in Europe. Plus. . .

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2170 implied HN points • 18 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary International relations Government actions Public Opinion
  1. Americans are creating a stir in Europe, with political figures speaking out against issues like free speech and defense. It's making many in Europe realize just how much U.S. politics is affecting them.
  2. There's a growing divide between the U.S. and Europe on important values like freedom and democracy. As leaders discuss policy changes, it seems both sides are moving apart.
  3. A prominent conversation is happening around the idea of 'brokenism,' where people are debating whether traditional institutions are failing or need to be reformed. It's highlighting a significant split in American political thought.

Natan Sharansky: A President’s Words Saved Me in the Gulag

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 779 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Foreign Relations Political Commentary Civil Rights
  1. Words from leaders can have a big impact, like how Reagan's words helped people in the Soviet Union. They find hope in support from powerful figures.
  2. Trump's comments about Ukraine's president being illegitimate mirror dangerous propaganda, which is concerning. It shows a shift away from supporting freedom against oppression.
  3. Political prisoners in Russia today might feel abandoned without clear support from American leadership. Having an ally is crucial for their morale and hope.

I Write About Israel All The Time Because I Have To, Not Because I Want To

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2267 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Civil Rights Military Actions Middle East Political Commentary
  1. The situation in Gaza includes severe human rights violations and reports of torture. It's really troubling and many people feel compelled to speak out about it.
  2. Critics of Israel's actions often face accusations of antisemitism, which confuses the discussion about the state's actions with issues related to all Jewish people.
  3. Many people are frustrated with the political leaders who seem to support harmful actions against vulnerable populations, and it's important to hold them accountable regardless of their party.

Doomscroll: Amber A'Lee Frost

Joshua Citarella's Newsletter • 457 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🎙 Podcasts Cultural critique Political Commentary Social movements Media Analysis Activism
  1. Young people are often seen as the future of social change. But we need to think about whether they really will lead the revolution.
  2. There are new efforts by the Republican party to support workers. It's important to consider if these changes are genuine or not.
  3. A lot of educated people are struggling to find jobs, which raises questions about what happens next in our society.

NYT Essay, My Name

The Upheaval • 1844 implied HN points • 06 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Media Critique Cultural Commentary Identity politics
  1. The author wrote an opinion piece in the New York Times explaining the managerial regime and why some people dislike it. They want to share their views with a broader audience.
  2. The author has chosen to publish under a pen name, N.S. Lyons, but revealed their real name, Nathan Levine, after feeling ignored by journalists and NGOs.
  3. They mentioned their own background, noting that although they have some Jewish ancestry, they identify as an Orthodox Christian, and they are aware of how this might attract attention online.

The Eerie Calm Before the Storm

Simplicius's Garden of Knowledge • 8393 implied HN points • 13 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Censorship Legal issues Public Opinion Political Commentary
  1. Sometimes people feel nervous about discussing certain topics because of new rules and laws. It can feel safer to keep some things private.
  2. During important times, like elections, some writers might decide to share more sensitive content through paid posts. This isn't to force anyone to pay, but to protect their ideas.
  3. It's okay for readers to see a few more paywalled pieces, as it may just be about being cautious rather than a change in the usual routine.

Introducing: Something

Sex and the State • 19 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Democratic Party Social Issues Gender Politics
  1. It's important to create content that respects and connects with all people, including those who feel left out. Everyone deserves to feel valued and heard.
  2. There is a need for better messaging and communication in political discussions, especially when addressing diverse groups. Clear communication can help bridge gaps and foster understanding.
  3. Listening to different perspectives is crucial, even if you don't fully agree. Engaging with varied opinions can lead to richer conversations and more inclusive ideas.

SHOW NOTES: October Surprise; Town Halls; The Early Vote

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 1378 implied HN points • 24 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Polling Political Commentary Political News Government
  1. A recent claim about Donald Trump from 1993 is dismissed because it contradicts facts about when Jeffrey Epstein lived in a specific location.
  2. Recent polls show Donald Trump gaining popularity, even surpassing Vice President Harris's favorability ratings.
  3. Georgia's election officials successfully defended against a cyber-attack, and concerns about North Korean soldiers helping Russia in Ukraine are growing.

The Washington Post's Bold Look Ahead to 2028

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 10098 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Democrats Political strategy Political Commentary Media
  1. The idea of planning for the 2028 elections seems out of touch with current events. Many believe focusing on the present issues is more important than looking ahead to future elections.
  2. The article pokes fun at the optimism around potential Democratic candidates without acknowledging the challenges they face now. People feel that this optimism might not reflect the reality of the political landscape.
  3. There is a sense of urgency in dealing with current political changes rather than speculating about future candidates. It's like ignoring a fire while planning a barbecue.

The Ukraine Blowback Begins

JoeWrote • 76 implied HN points • 04 Mar 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Military Political Commentary Geopolitics Elections
  1. America's military support for Ukraine is getting complicated and could lead to unexpected problems in the future. There are concerns that weapons could land in the wrong hands and create new conflicts.
  2. Some extremist groups in Ukraine, like the Azov Battalion, have gained power and access to U.S. military equipment. This raises worries about how they might use these weapons in the future, especially if they turn against the Ukrainian government.
  3. The situation is becoming unstable as political support from the U.S. shifts. If military aid stops, it could lead to infighting and chaos within Ukraine, making things even worse for the country.

Transcript - America This Week, Feb 14, 2025: "The Government is a Giant Pile of Dung"

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 1578 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Legislation Elections Political Commentary Congress
  1. There is a concern that some members of Congress may lack a fundamental understanding of important topics, like manufacturing, suggesting they aren't fully prepared for their jobs.
  2. Political leaders may be more focused on publicity and appearances rather than having genuine knowledge or awareness of the issues they talk about.
  3. The current political climate feels chaotic, with one side acting decisively while the other seems lost and unsure of their direction.

Lara Logan Did Nothing Wrong (Classic Takes)

Emerald Robinson’s The Right Way • 3194 implied HN points • 17 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Scandals Conspiracy Political Commentary Journalism
  1. Lara Logan has faced criticism from mainstream media for discussing ideas that some believe are now widely accepted as true. It's argued that certain significant scandals were initially dismissed as conspiracy theories.
  2. She emphasizes traditional values like sovereignty, national identity, and family as important aspects of society. Logan suggests that current challenges, like open borders, are linked to broader negative influences.
  3. There is a belief that influential figures and organizations are trying to shape the world in troubling ways. Logan expresses a strong conviction that these efforts will ultimately fail.

Goodbye to Joe Biden, and Whoever Was President the Last Four Years

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 15182 implied HN points • 18 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Public Policy Political Commentary Biden administration
  1. Biden gave a farewell speech that expressed concerns about an 'oligarchy' forming in America. He mentioned how tech companies could threaten democracy.
  2. Many people feel Biden’s presidency was mostly about him being a public figure rather than an effective leader. There seemed to be a powerful force behind the presidency itself, separate from him.
  3. Biden highlighted a growing disconnect between the president as a person and the presidency as an institution during his term. This indicates a complex understanding of leadership in America.

Democrats Go From Slaves to Serfs

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 2757 implied HN points • 18 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Immigration Political Commentary Party Politics Social Issues Labor
  1. Some people believe that certain political views support a system that relies on low-wage workers, which they compare to historical slavery. They argue that this system takes advantage of people who are undocumented.
  2. There’s a belief that some politicians want an underclass of workers who can be paid unfairly, instead of supporting fair wages for everyone.
  3. Some argue that stopping illegal immigration and reforming the job system would help everyone, making it fairer for workers and businesses alike.

The IDF Didn't Just Target Hospitals, They Destroyed Individual Medical Machines

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1881 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Military conflict Human Rights Political Commentary Social justice
  1. Lifesaving medical equipment in Gaza has been intentionally destroyed to prevent medical care. This act raises serious questions about the motivations behind such destruction.
  2. People often ignore the harsh realities of conflicts, focusing instead on domestic political issues. This avoidance can lead to a detachment from the suffering experienced in war zones.
  3. Real opposition to power does not revolve around individual politicians like Trump, but rather against the systems of capitalism, imperialism, and exploitation that enable these issues.