The hottest Political Commentary Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top U.S. Politics Topics

Episode 120: No Bridge Too Far

Disaffected Newsletter • 579 implied HN points • 14 May 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. A Texas Democrat courageously switched sides to support a ban on certain medical treatments for children, showing strong conviction on this issue.
  2. In 2023, it seems tough to maintain a morally respectable stance as a progressive liberal Democrat, suggesting a significant shift in political dynamics.
  3. An Australian malpractice insurer is refusing to cover doctors who provide gender transition treatments for minors, highlighting ongoing concerns about such practices.

CROSSPOST: Alexandra Petri: It Has Fallen to Me, the ["Washington Post"] Humor Columnist, to Endorse Harris for President

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 584 implied HN points • 27 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. The Washington Post decided not to endorse a candidate for the 2024 presidential election, saying they want to return to their historical roots of neutrality.
  2. The humor columnist publicly endorsed Kamala Harris because she believes it's important to care about the future and the kind of world her child will be born into.
  3. She argues that democracy is fragile and must be actively supported, and that it's crucial to speak out against candidates who threaten it, like Donald Trump.

Ready For More Media Gaslighting?

Unmasked • 41 implied HN points • 28 Nov 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. Media often changes its criticism based on who is in power, showing bias. For example, they overlooked Biden's age-related issues but are quick to highlight them for Trump.
  2. There seems to be a pattern of dishonesty or 'gaslighting' from media outlets regarding political figures. They might downplay serious issues for one party while exaggerating them for another.
  3. The initial response to the COVID-19 pandemic involved misleading information that impacted public health decisions. This miscommunication reflects how governments and media sometimes exaggerate or downplay issues to control narratives.

Can a child identify as a woman?

A B’Old Woman • 499 implied HN points • 10 May 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. Some people believe that if anyone can identify as a woman, it could also include children. This raises concerns about how society defines gender.
  2. There are fears that if children are allowed to identify as women, it could create safety issues, especially in spaces meant for women and girls.
  3. Without a clear definition of what being a woman means, there’s anxiety about where boundaries will be drawn and how this may affect children and society.

The New Issue Of JOHNSTONE Is Available To Order Or Download

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 512 implied HN points • 27 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. The new edition of JOHNSTONE magazine is out, and you can get it in print or as a digital copy for whatever price you want.
  2. The magazine discusses the current political climate, highlighting Trump's role in representing a harsh reality about the U.S. empire.
  3. It also touches on issues like the situation in Gaza and critiques the mainstream narrative surrounding global conflicts.
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Why Doesn't Matt Taibbi Want to Talk About Gaza?

KERFUFFLE • 213 implied HN points • 21 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. Matt Taibbi used to write confidently about the Israel-Palestine conflict, but now he avoids discussing it. It’s unclear why his stance on the topic has changed over the years.
  2. The ongoing violence and issues in the region remain serious, with the situation described as complicated but rooted in historical conflicts.
  3. People can learn from various sources, even if the source isn’t an expert, suggesting that sharing knowledge might be valuable regardless of one’s background.

Weekend Update #121: The Mafia State Takes Over the USA

Phillips’s Newsletter • 344 implied HN points • 23 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. The US government under Trump is moving away from supporting Ukraine and is forming a closer relationship with Russia. This shows a significant shift in international alliances and could leave Ukraine vulnerable.
  2. There are serious threats being made towards Ukrainian leadership, pushing for economic deals that benefit the US while harming Ukraine's interests. This approach mirrors tactics used by organized crime families.
  3. The future of European unity and its response to US policies is uncertain. Upcoming elections in Germany could impact how European states choose to navigate their relationships with both the US and Russia.

Saturday Commentary and Review #190

Fisted by Foucault • 143 implied HN points • 21 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. Right now, U.S. politics feel really stable and boring, which people find hard to get excited about. Many are wrestling with what they expected when Trump first came into power versus what actually happened.
  2. There's a disconnect between what Trump's supporters want—a revolution—and what he can realistically achieve within the current system. Many Republicans are caught between wanting change and sticking to traditional conservative values.
  3. Anti-globalization has shifted from the left to the right over time. As people face negative impacts from globalization, right-leaning politics have capitalized on this sentiment, while leftists are trying to figure out how to reclaim that anti-globalization spirit for their own agendas.

Our New Pandemic: Moral Cowardice

Slack Tide by Matt Labash • 359 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. Moral cowardice is widespread today, causing people to lie and betray their own beliefs. This issue affects many public figures who prioritize loyalty over truth.
  2. Alexei Navalny is presented as a true example of courage and moral strength. He stood up against corruption in Russia, even knowing it could lead to his death.
  3. The piece encourages individuals to reject lies and strive to do what is right, emphasizing that life is too short to remain silent and complacent.

Trump's Parade of Horribles

Slack Tide by Matt Labash • 189 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  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.

Dingus of the week: Bret Baier

Men Yell at Me • 558 implied HN points • 18 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. Bret Baier is criticized for his interview style, which some see as unbalanced and focused on complaints rather than real issues. He often interrupts and uses tactics that undermine the interviewee's credibility.
  2. Harrison Butker faced backlash for comments suggesting women's primary role should be as wives and mothers. His views are viewed as outdated and patronizing, reducing women's roles to traditional expectations.
  3. There are positive initiatives happening, like programs that help formerly incarcerated individuals find jobs in the solar industry, showcasing efforts to support marginalized communities.

Why it doesn't pay to make predictions

The Cosmopolitan Globalist • 16 implied HN points • 03 Jan 26
🌍 World Politics Political Commentary
  1. Predictions often fail, so it's wiser not to make firm forecasts when information is limited.
  2. There is a genuine hope that Venezuela can be stabilized quickly and become democratic and prosperous, but the outcome is uncertain.
  3. Global events can be wildly surprising, and while dramatic scenarios are tempting to imagine, it's better to admit uncertainty than pretend to know the future.

What to watch for: Aaron Reichlin-Melnick on immigration and mass deportations

The Watch • 416 implied HN points • 20 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. The Trump administration's immigration plan could cause a lot of harm, affecting not only undocumented immigrants but also their families and the U.S. economy. There’s a risk of mass deportations, which can create fear in communities.
  2. There are many challenges to implementing plans for mass deportation. Even though there are threats and promises, practical limitations like resources, laws, and the need for due process can make it very difficult to achieve the massive deportation numbers that have been proposed.
  3. Fear is a powerful tool used in immigration policy, impacting how people live their daily lives. Even without actual mass deportations, the threat alone can lead to many people feeling unsafe and acting differently, which can hurt communities and their social fabric.

Our best and worst takes of 2024

Silver Bulletin • 386 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. In 2024, a lot of focus was on the election, which made it hard to cover other topics. It's important to find a balance between major events and a wider range of issues.
  2. Some predictions made during the year were spot-on, especially about political trends and voter behavior. This shows the importance of analyzing data carefully.
  3. Not every post or opinion held up well over time. It's a good reminder that things change, and it's okay to revisit and reflect on past takes.

Further Confirmation the New York Times Peddles Lies

The DisInformation Chronicle • 355 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. Be skeptical of what you read in major media, like the New York Times. It's important to question the facts presented to you.
  2. Some writers may ignore the reality of significant issues, such as inflation, which can lead to misleading conclusions.
  3. It's crucial to look closely at the evidence behind claims, particularly in areas like science and public health, as not all information is based on strong evidence.

The Ben Shapiro "Honesty" Hustle

Slack Tide by Matt Labash • 203 implied HN points • 15 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. Donald Trump is often seen as a conman who focuses on personal gain rather than the needs of his supporters. Many people find it ironic that he seeks luxury, like a $400 million private jet, while his followers struggle financially.
  2. Ben Shapiro, a prominent right-wing commentator, has sometimes pointed out Trump’s wrongdoings. However, he continues to support Trump despite these criticisms, which raises questions about his integrity.
  3. The Republican Party has shifted under Trump's influence, seemingly moving away from traditional values to support his more questionable actions, leading to a perception of corruption within the party.

Oligarchs' Island

Thinking about... • 437 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. Oligarchs are like a group of powerful people isolated on an island, focusing more on their own interests than the needs of everyday people.
  2. Using humor, like the concept of 'Oligarchs' Island' as a sitcom, can help us understand the ridiculousness and danger of such power dynamics.
  3. Oligarchies are unstable and can quickly change, suggesting that we should be aware of their flaws and the potential for conflict among them.

The Things I Love About America

American Dreaming • 138 implied HN points • 04 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. America's independence was won through a revolutionary war, which is seen as a powerful and bold action. This history makes the country's origin story feel more admirable compared to others.
  2. The U.S. is a nation built by immigrants, and this diversity brings fresh stories, cultures, and ideas. This mix enriches communities and represents a welcoming environment.
  3. America values freedom and free speech, allowing for open discussion and debate. This emphasis on individual rights helps the country remain strong and united, even amid criticisms.

Everybody hates Andrew Tate

Of Boys and Men • 286 implied HN points • 01 Mar 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. Andrew Tate is widely criticized for his controversial views on gender roles, often referring to women in derogatory terms.
  2. Even conservative figures, like Ron DeSantis and Ben Shapiro, are speaking out against Tate, showing a rare unity in disapproval across the political spectrum.
  3. Despite some minor support from fringe groups, the general consensus is that most people do not want Andrew Tate in the U.S. due to his alleged criminal background.

Big Pharma Millions Behind Attacks On Trump’s FDA Nominee

Public • 419 implied HN points • 24 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. Dr. Marty Makary has been nominated by Trump to be the commissioner of the FDA. He has some controversial views that have stirred up discussions among experts.
  2. There are claims that attacks on Makary's nomination are backed by the pharmaceutical industry. This situation raises questions about conflicting interests in health policy.
  3. Makary defends other controversial figures, suggesting they have evolved in their views. However, this has led to further criticism from leading health experts.

German fascism crisis escalates as Elon Musk publishes a devastating 600-word editorial explaining why he supports Alternative für Deutschland

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 363 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. Elon Musk believes Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) is key to saving Germany. He argues that their policies can help revive the economy and address social tensions.
  2. Critics of Musk's views worry that his support for the AfD undermines Germany's political stability. They feel that allowing such opinions can influence public perception negatively.
  3. Musk's perspective highlights a broader discomfort with the traditional political order in Germany. Many Germans feel their concerns are ignored by established parties.

ONE VIDEO: Donald Trump & the Very Large Faucet on the U.S.-Canadian Border

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 345 implied HN points • 04 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. Donald Trump's comments show he has a unique view on how water resources work, particularly regarding water flowing from Canada to California. Many people around him seem to lack the willingness to correct his misunderstandings.
  2. He claimed that turning a 'faucet' could solve California's water issues and that this would cause the state to thrive, ignoring the complexities of water management and environmental concerns.
  3. Trump's statements indicate he believes he could improve the agricultural situation in California significantly, but his ideas seem unrealistic and overlook important facts about irrigation and ecology.

Dingus of the Week: Nancy Mace

Men Yell at Me • 412 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. Nancy Mace introduced a bathroom bill targeting trans women, specifically aimed at new Congress member Sarah McBride. This move appears to prioritize political gain over inclusivity.
  2. The author criticizes Mace for claiming to protect women's spaces while potentially harming vulnerable groups, highlighting the hypocrisy in her actions.
  3. During a time when real issues, like rising costs and safety, need attention, Mace's focus on bathroom laws seems misplaced and not beneficial to the public.

dear washington DC

bad cattitude • 404 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. A new group of highly skilled and productive people is coming to Washington, D.C., and they are different from the usual insiders. They are capable of achieving remarkable things quickly.
  2. This new team operates with a mindset of moving fast and breaking things, challenging existing processes and norms in government. They are ready to disrupt the status quo.
  3. With their talent and determination, this group could bring significant change to government agencies, leaving the current officials surprised and unable to keep up.

Dingus of the week: Pete Hegseth

Men Yell at Me • 380 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. Pete Hegseth, a nominee for a high military position, has a controversial history with accusations of misconduct and a toxic work environment. His qualifications for such a role are questioned.
  2. There are serious concerns about how the military treats women, especially considering that many report experiencing harassment and assault. Putting someone like Hegseth in charge could worsen this issue.
  3. The healthcare system is failing many Americans, leading to feelings of rage and frustration. People are struggling to access necessary medical care, and this creates a sense of violence in everyday life.

Update: Back To Regularly Scheduled Programming

Fisted by Foucault • 125 implied HN points • 04 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. The shoulder injury has healed, allowing for a return to regular posting schedules. It's great to be back after a tough time dealing with pain.
  2. There are important thoughts to share regarding the recent Israel vs. Iran war, which haven’t been discussed yet.
  3. New content, including an essay on the war, will be published soon, with more material coming each week.

sunday meanpool

bad cattitude • 100 implied HN points • 27 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. It's important to work together to find solutions to problems we face. Teamwork can help us tackle challenges better.
  2. Being honest is good, but it's also important to know when not to share everything. Too much talking can cause trouble.
  3. Everyone appreciates a little privacy and trust. It's best to keep some things to yourself and respect others' boundaries.

kitten corner: scooby doo reruns

bad cattitude • 149 implied HN points • 29 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. Current politics feels repetitive, just like watching too many episodes of Scooby Doo with the same ending. It can get boring to see the same patterns over and over.
  2. There's a call for new villains or challenges in politics to make things more interesting. Fresh ideas could spice things up.
  3. Using humor, like comparing politics to Scooby Doo, helps make the situation feel lighter and more relatable. It's a fun way to discuss serious topics.

Dingus of the week: Patrick Soon-Shiong

Men Yell at Me • 406 implied HN points • 25 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. Patrick Soon-Shiong, the owner of the Los Angeles Times, stopped the editorial board from endorsing Kamala Harris. This caused the head of editorials to resign because it felt unprincipled to oppose a Democratic candidate.
  2. Soon-Shiong wanted the board to provide a neutral analysis of candidates instead of making a clear endorsement. This approach confused reporting with opinion, which are usually different in journalism.
  3. Many believe it's important for newspapers to take a stand on critical issues, especially when democracy is at stake. Stopping a strong editorial voice can send mixed messages to readers.

Dingus of the week: Kathy Hochul

Men Yell at Me • 327 implied HN points • 20 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. Kathy Hochul's recent decision to let a company manage a program for disabled New Yorkers is raising concerns about potential negative impacts on care. People worry it could lead to less oversight and worse service for those who need help the most.
  2. Hochul is also thinking about creating a hotline for CEOs to report safety threats, which seems unnecessary since wealthy people already have plenty of ways to get help if they feel unsafe. This makes some people feel like their safety is prioritized over others who are more vulnerable.
  3. The piece argues that instead of helping CEOs, Hochul should focus on protecting those at greater risk, like migrants and homeless individuals, by improving government programs to truly serve people.

the democratic joe rogan

bad cattitude • 357 implied HN points • 09 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. The left is struggling with a lack of humor, thought diversity, and genuine connection, making it hard to attract new supporters. It often resorts to strict ideological tests that push people away.
  2. Many former left-leaning individuals feel alienated as the party has become more extreme, pushing them to seek alternatives. This shift has created frustration and led to a sense of disconnection with the mainstream.
  3. There is a desire for authenticity and genuine conversation in politics. People are tired of fake interactions and want leaders who can ask tough questions and speak honestly, rather than sticking to scripted, safe narratives.

Escape from Mask Mountain

Disaffected Newsletter • 439 implied HN points • 27 Mar 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. There is a growing movement in some states that supports transgender medical procedures for children, which has raised concerns about parental rights and involvement.
  2. Certain areas, like Portland, are commemorating past public health measures like mask mandates even as they are relaxed elsewhere.
  3. There is a mix of news and commentary that highlights unusual or controversial social issues in current events.

Episode 109: War Footing

Disaffected Newsletter • 479 implied HN points • 27 Feb 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. A new Vermont bill is controversial because it allows sex changes for children and provides free sex changes and abortions at colleges.
  2. Vermont is still following COVID-19 restrictions like masks and social distancing, which some find concerning.
  3. The host defends Matt Walsh for speaking against those influencing children in harmful ways, stating there is a growing anger among men about this issue.

The Cincinnati Beat-Down

Journal of Free Black Thought • 81 implied HN points • 07 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. Recent violent attacks in Cincinnati highlighted a troubling culture of violence, with many bystanders laughing instead of helping. It's important to remember that violence is never justified, no matter the circumstances.
  2. There is a belief that some black leaders aren't addressing the root causes of violence in their communities. Instead, they may be focused on pushing a certain political agenda, which may not help the people they represent.
  3. Many think that restoring the traditional values, including strong family structures and community support, can help improve the current issues faced by black communities. This includes moving away from destructive influences in culture.

Kamala’s Memoir: Inside The Battle To Control Our Authoritarian Future

QTR’s Fringe Finance • 29 implied HN points • 18 Nov 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. Kamala Harris's memoir tends to focus more on personal grievances than on deep political insights. It gives off a vibe of self-pity about her political journey.
  2. Harris's concept of freedom emphasizes government assistance, which some voters might not want. Many people are looking for less government involvement in their lives.
  3. The book lacks a strong vision or clear political ideas for the future. Harris talks about rebuilding trust and empathy but doesn't offer solid plans or policies.

There's Been No Gaza Sea Change.

JoeWrote • 90 implied HN points • 30 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. There hasn’t been a real shift in how political leaders view the Gaza situation. They condemn starvation but don't address Israel's role in it.
  2. Many political figures are trying to save their reputations rather than genuinely help the people of Gaza. They only speak up now because they feel pressure, not because they care about what’s happening.
  3. Accountability is key to making real change. Leaders need to face the consequences for their actions to prevent further suffering in Gaza.

While it's easy to be distracted by the Roche cult members' lack of courage, drive, intelligence, and integrity, raw masochism is what most strongly unifies these freaks

Beck of the Pack • 98 implied HN points • 25 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. Raw masochism unifies Roche cult members despite other lacking qualities.
  2. Criticism is directed towards David and Megan Roche and their coaching methods.
  3. Many individuals in the running community are described as self-important and masochistic.

old media vs new model mockery

bad cattitude • 245 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. Old media often claims that only they can do real journalism and dismisses new media like bloggers and podcasters. They feel threatened as their traditional control on information is challenged.
  2. A recent interview showcased how traditional journalists might not fact-check properly, leading to humorous and embarrassing situations. This shows that not all media is trustworthy.
  3. Many stories shared by the media can create unnecessary fear and panic, especially during health crises. It's important to question the validity of these narratives and the reasons behind them.