The hottest Political Commentary Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top U.S. Politics Topics

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.

I Love This Guy

Points And Figures • 1279 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Elections Public Policy Political Movements Political Commentary
  1. We are at an important moment in history that can shape the future of Western values and freedom. It's essential to stay alert and participate in this significant change.
  2. When making policies, ensure they promote freedom for everyone and avoid leaning towards control and restrictions. Past attempts at reform have shown pitfalls when they disguise control as freedom.
  3. It's crucial to expose dishonest actions in politics and prioritize transparent communication. Learning from past mistakes can help build a stronger future without wasting time on revenge.

Criminal Minds

Disaffected Newsletter • 759 implied HN points • 09 Sep 24
🎙 Podcasts True Crime Social Issues Mental health Political Commentary Cultural critique
  1. Child abuse is a major factor in violent behavior, as suggested by the case of a young murderer. It's important to understand the home environment of troubled youth.
  2. Society is facing a decline with issues like street violence and controversial influences in media. These problems make it harder for people to feel safe.
  3. There's a mix of unusual news topics and merchandise being advertised. It reflects the unique and sometimes bizarre culture we are living in.

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.

No I will not take the high road

Disaffected Newsletter • 3816 implied HN points • 23 Jul 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Conservatism Liberalism Public Discourse Political strategy
  1. Some people want outspoken others to stay quiet, but those who speak the truth shouldn't feel pressured to do so. It's okay to point out uncomfortable truths.
  2. Many believe that focusing on policies is more important than discussing someone's personal life, but that view can ignore important realities. Voters might care more about the messiness of real life than some think.
  3. People who ask others to stay quiet might not support those who speak up when they see injustice. It's important to recognize those who are truly supportive versus those who just want to avoid confrontation.
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This is How Much America Still Hates Women

Culture Study • 28623 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Analysis Gender Issues Political Commentary Social justice Civil Rights
  1. Many people in America still prefer male leaders, even if they are not competent, over qualified women. This shows a deep-rooted bias against women in politics.
  2. There is a troubling belief that women's bodies should be controlled by the state, often with men making those decisions. This reflects a dangerous mindset about women's rights and lives.
  3. Despite feeling defeated, it's important to keep fighting for a better future. Our determination and faith in change can drive progress, even in difficult times.

Trump abandons Zelensky, triggering proxy war meltdown

Aaron Mate • 176 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Foreign Policy Government Political Commentary National Security
  1. Trump believes that Zelensky could have prevented the war in Ukraine. This suggests that there may have been choices to avoid conflict.
  2. The statement indicates a significant change in U.S. support for Ukraine, which could lead to instability in the region.
  3. This situation may affect how future relationships between the U.S. and Ukraine develop, especially in terms of military aid and diplomatic support.

The Pardons

Points And Figures • 1279 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Governance Political parties Public Policy Political Commentary
  1. Biden's recent pardons can help Trump focus on positive actions instead of seeking revenge. This means Trump can start building things up rather than getting caught up in past issues.
  2. The pardons may lead to less media attention on major stories, allowing gossip and rumors to take the spotlight. It's a shift similar to what happened when Nixon was pardoned, making it easier for Trump to move forward.
  3. Trump could gain ground by being extremely open about past documents and issues. By releasing more information on various controversies, he could reshape public perception and show his commitment to transparency.

AI #99: Farewell to Biden

Don't Worry About the Vase • 1388 implied HN points • 16 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Policy AI Regulation Election Dynamics Political Commentary Public Opinion
  1. Biden's farewell address highlighted the risks of a 'Tech-Industrial Complex' and the growing importance of AI technology. He proposed building data centers for AI on federal land and tightening regulations on chip exports to China.
  2. Language models show potential in practical applications like education and medical diagnostics, but they still fall short in areas where better integration and real-world utility are needed.
  3. Concerns about AI's risks often stem from pessimism regarding humanity's ability to manage technological advancement. It’s important to find hope in alternative paths that can lead to a better future without relying solely on AI.

JD Vance and the toxic traits of the online right

Jeff Giesea • 1018 implied HN points • 19 Sep 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Elections Political Identity Political issues Right-wing Politics
  1. JD Vance appears to lack a clear identity, showcasing a confusing mix of values and styles. It's hard to tell exactly what he stands for as he shifts his image frequently.
  2. By promoting questionable claims and aligning with controversial figures, JD risks losing credibility and engaging in harmful rhetoric. This reflects a troubling trend in parts of the online right that emphasize loyalty over truth.
  3. The current political climate suggests that simply being associated with Trump or the online right does not guarantee popularity. JD's low approval ratings indicate that his approach may not resonate with the broader electorate.

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.

Make America a Continent Again

Atlas of Wonders and Monsters • 729 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Presidential elections Governance National Identity International relations
  1. The word 'America' means different things to different people. In many Spanish-speaking countries, it refers to the whole continent, not just the United States.
  2. Donald Trump's actions and statements about territories like Greenland and the Gulf of Mexico may upset international relationships and suggest a more aggressive stance.
  3. The strong American influence on the continent comes with a responsibility to act as a stabilizing power. If Trump fails to do so, it could affect how Americans are viewed in the rest of the Americas.

Dingus of the week: “A big beautiful bill”

Men Yell at Me • 301 implied HN points • 23 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Legislation Public Policy Political Commentary
  1. Finding humor in tough situations can help us cope and maintain our sanity. Laughter can take the power out of serious issues.
  2. Sometimes, government actions seem silly or harmful, like cutting essential services to save money. It's important to recognize the real impact of these choices.
  3. Good news can still happen amidst the bad, like legal wins for marginalized groups and positive changes in work-life balance. Celebrating these wins is important.

"Paycheck-to-paycheck" and five other popular myths

Noahpinion • 17000 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economics Public Policy Surveys Political Commentary
  1. Many popular economic claims, like '60% of Americans live paycheck to paycheck,' are often incorrect and based on unreliable sources.
  2. Surveys from trusted government institutions show that a majority of people actually have enough savings to cover three months of expenses, contradicting the paycheck-to-paycheck myth.
  3. There are many other myths about exercise, education, immigration, and spending that are widely accepted but lack proper evidence, showing that misinformation can spread even in an information-rich society.

By The Book

Points And Figures • 1012 implied HN points • 19 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political theory Government Public Policy Political Commentary
  1. Outsiders often disrupt the status quo and create change, even if they lack traditional qualifications. People like Elon Musk and Henry Kaiser show that success can come from unconventional paths.
  2. Experience in the real world can lead to better decision-making, which is why some believe Trump has gained valuable insights since his first term. His focus on practical solutions may lead to positive outcomes.
  3. Reforming government agencies and taxes could transform how Americans interact with the government. People are looking for changes that align with their needs rather than outdated systems.

‘Am I a Racist?’ Is Brilliant. More Importantly, It's Funny

The Take (by Jon Miltimore) • 456 implied HN points • 03 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Social Issues Cultural critique Media Analysis Race relations
  1. Matt Walsh's documentary 'Am I a Racist?' uses humor to criticize the DEI industry and its practices. It shows how some people profit from creating racial tensions.
  2. The film exposes the contradiction in some anti-racist beliefs, where individuals are seen only through their group identity. Walsh highlights the absurdity of these ideas while making the audience laugh.
  3. Alongside the mockery, the film also presents positive examples of people who view others as individuals, suggesting a more constructive way to address racism.

... And Justice for All?

Wrong Side of History • 408 implied HN points • 25 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Free speech Justice System Public Opinion Political Commentary Social media
  1. Some politicians want Lucy Connolly released from jail for her tweet, but she remains imprisoned. Many feel mixed about whether she deserves to be there.
  2. There's confusion about why she was charged and denied bail, especially since a jury might not have given her a harsh sentence. People want to know who made these choices and why.
  3. While saying something harmful online can lead to jail, not all tweets warrant such serious punishment. Context matters when discussing freedom of speech.

In Election Aftermath, Hollywood Smashes Records for Lack of Self-Awareness

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 18171 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Media Public Opinion Political Commentary Celebrity Influence
  1. Jimmy Kimmel and other Hollywood figures showed a lack of self-awareness after the recent election. They seemed surprised by the outcomes and how others viewed their influence.
  2. Kimmel's emotional response highlighted the disconnect between Hollywood elites and everyday voters. Many people feel misunderstood by the media and entertainment industry.
  3. There's a growing debate about the future of late-night talk shows. Kimmel's remarks suggest that their relevance might be fading as viewers have different expectations today.

Being Ghosted by the New York Times

Freddie deBoer • 13861 implied HN points • 09 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Ethics Political Commentary
  1. Freelancers often face a lack of communication from big publications like The New York Times. When they pitch ideas, they expect a simple 'no' if the piece isn't wanted, but many times they don’t receive any response at all.
  2. There's a sense of casual disrespect in the industry, especially from larger publications. Many freelancers and even some employees feel underappreciated and mistreated, which can create a toxic work environment.
  3. Despite the frustrations, freelancers still want to write for well-known outlets like The New York Times because of the exposure and audience they can reach. It’s important for these big publications to treat writers with respect to foster better relationships.

Dingus of the week: Gavin Newsom

Men Yell at Me • 408 implied HN points • 16 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Elections Policy Analysis Public Opinion Political Figures
  1. Gavin Newsom is a politician who started as a Democrat but is now acting more like a Republican. He seems focused on his own ambitions rather than the needs of the people.
  2. His podcast is trying to attract younger voters, but his methods might not resonate, especially with marginalized groups. Just changing his talking points won’t change his actions.
  3. People are tired of politicians who follow trends instead of standing firm on important issues. Newsom's shift towards right-wing ideas has led some to feel betrayed by his leadership.

The Bell Finally Tolls for the FBI

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 13359 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political parties Government Agencies Media Relations Public Policy Political Commentary
  1. Kash Patel's nomination raises concerns about the FBI's future and suggests an intention to overhaul its leadership. Many believe Trump needs to take decisive action against the FBI after years of perceived misconduct.
  2. The article criticizes mainstream media, particularly CNN, for their coverage of the Nunes memo and claims they misrepresented facts. It argues that the media's failures blurred the lines between journalism and political agendas.
  3. The discussion emphasizes the importance of accountability in institutions like the FBI and the media. It suggests that changes in leadership could be a necessary step towards restoring public trust.

It's Time to Redefine "Fringe"

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 14365 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Government Policy Public Health Elections Social Issues
  1. The term 'fringe' is often used to dismiss views that many people actually support. It's important to reconsider what we label as fringe.
  2. Critics can be quick to judge individuals based on their views without considering the larger public opinion that might align with those views.
  3. There seems to be a disconnect between mainstream experts and the beliefs of the general population, leading to debates about academic freedom and public health policy.

Facecrime

Disaffected Newsletter • 839 implied HN points • 19 Aug 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Social Issues Legal system Cultural critique Historical perspectives
  1. The UK is arresting people for how they appear during violent events, showing a serious issue in handling domestic violence.
  2. Older hippies still hold on to their past beliefs and are out of touch with current realities, which raises questions about their views.
  3. There are lessons in recognizing unstable people, highlighting the importance of being aware of our surroundings.

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.

Mailbag #4, Plus Update on Tuesday Event

Richard Hanania's Newsletter • 292 implied HN points • 16 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Events Public Discourse Civic engagement Political Commentary Social Issues
  1. There is an event happening in DC on Tuesday with notable guests, and tickets are still available.
  2. The author is doing a Q&A mailbag, where anyone can ask questions but only paid subscribers will get answers.
  3. Questions will be prioritized based on likes from readers, but the author won't answer questions that have been previously discussed.

Getting Off the Daily Hamster Wheel of Crazy

Bulwark+ • 13542 implied HN points • 01 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Podcasts Election Updates Political Commentary Government actions
  1. The author is taking a break from the daily hamster wheel of overwhelming news to maintain perspective and sanity.
  2. It's important to step back and avoid being consumed by the sheer volume of information and outrage.
  3. Rational, principled voices are needed in the current political climate to combat extremism and cultism.

Tired of trash? Try new Wokespy!

Disaffected Newsletter • 1358 implied HN points • 31 Jul 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Critique Political Commentary Culture Wars Satire
  1. Wokespy.com provides daily short articles that poke fun at 'woke' culture. It's a light-hearted way to stay informed about current events.
  2. The content includes both written pieces and short videos, making it accessible in different formats.
  3. The site aims to share humorous takes on social issues, often highlighting bizarre or ridiculous stories in the news.

The Worst Part of a Terrible Speech.

Breaking the News • 5091 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Speeches Political Rhetoric Public Opinion Political Commentary
  1. Long speeches don't always mean good speeches. The recent inauguration speech was lengthy but poorly delivered and uninspiring.
  2. Some parts of the speech were particularly ridiculous, like suggesting the Gulf of Mexico be renamed and complaining about Panama without understanding the history.
  3. Moving forward, it's important to focus on positive local experiences and civic engagement instead of getting stuck in national distractions.

Apologies to Afroman

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 9295 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Election Issues Political Satire Government Accountability Social Issues
  1. Afroman has a new song called 'Hunter Got High' that comments on Hunter Biden's situation. It's interesting how music reflects current events.
  2. There was a discussion comparing the seriousness of Hunter Biden's actions to those of Donald Trump. Opinions on this topic vary widely across different groups.
  3. The lyrics of Afroman's song cleverly tie in political themes, showing how artists can engage with social issues through their work.

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.

Coming to America

Wrong Side of History • 251 implied HN points • 24 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Immigration Social Issues Cultural critique Historical Analysis
  1. Many people feel that guilt from past events influences current decisions, sometimes leading to harmful consequences for future generations.
  2. Diversity and trust are important topics, but there often needs to be more focus on actual studies and facts rather than just personal opinions.
  3. The issue of social housing is complex, and current systems may not be benefiting those they are meant to help, leading to socio-economic challenges.

kitten corner: scooby doo reruns

bad cattitude • 149 implied HN points • 29 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Pop culture Media Analysis Humor Public Opinion
  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.

Canceled AGAIN

Disaffected Newsletter • 1218 implied HN points • 28 Jul 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Cancel Culture Media influence Conservative Politics Political Commentary Current Events
  1. Digital cancellation is affecting jobs in the news industry, especially for conservative voices. Many writers have lost their jobs due to this trend.
  2. The government and media are working hard to change public perception of unpopular leaders. They are trying to convince people to like the vice president, despite her low approval ratings.
  3. There is increasing tension and vandalism related to political protests, with some groups targeting historical monuments and individuals in provocative ways.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 03.03.2025

steigan.no • 6 implied HN points • 03 Mar 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Military Strategy Political Commentary International relations Defense Spending
  1. Rødt, a political party, has decided to support a significant increase in military spending. They want to strengthen national defense even though this ties them to NATO.
  2. A recent meeting in London highlighted the challenges European leaders face in supporting Ukraine. There was talk of military aid, but many leaders are worried about over-relying on the U.S. for support.
  3. UK Prime Minister Starmer expressed a willingness to send troops to Ukraine as part of a peace agreement, but this idea has faced rejection from Russia and raises concerns about escalating tensions.

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.

Elon Musk's secret alt?

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 4777 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Influencers Social media Public Relations Political Commentary Controversies
  1. There are claims that Elon Musk might be using a secret Twitter account named Adrian Dittmann to defend himself. Many believe this account has a similar style and voice to Musk.
  2. Some people say they've heard proof that Dittmann is actually Musk's burner account, but the credibility of such claims is questionable.
  3. Regardless of whether Adrian is Musk or not, it raises interesting questions about social media and the behavior of public figures online.

Why Doesn't Matt Taibbi Want to Talk About Gaza?

KERFUFFLE • 213 implied HN points • 21 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Criticism Middle East Free speech Public Opinion 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.

TGIF: Hard Pivot

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 4595 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Elections Government Media Public Opinion
  1. Biden warned about the growing influence of wealthy individuals in American politics. He believes this could threaten democracy and everyone's chance to succeed.
  2. He talked about the need for accountability on social media platforms to stop the spread of false information. Biden thinks this is important to protect families and democracy.
  3. The idea of oligarchs controlling politics can be complex, especially when they support causes on different sides. It raises questions about the balance of power in a democracy.