The hottest Political Commentary Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top U.S. Politics Topics

February 16, 2025

Letters from an American • 24 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Ideologies International relations Government Policy Political Commentary
  1. JD Vance delivered a strong critique of European values at the Munich Security Conference, claiming they're under threat not from outside forces, but from within.
  2. There are rising concerns about the push towards far-right ideologies in the U.S. and abroad, with influential figures like Elon Musk supporting these movements.
  3. The current U.S. administration's stance on Ukraine is unclear, with some leaders expressing support for Ukraine while others seem to align with Russian interests.

Gulag For You

Points And Figures • 959 implied HN points • 24 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Corruption Law enforcement Government Accountability Civil Rights Political Commentary
  1. Corruption in Illinois is rampant, especially within its government and judicial systems. Many residents feel they can't get a fair trial due to biased and corrupt officials.
  2. The case of Steve Fanady shows how the judicial system can mistreat individuals, holding them indefinitely while ignoring their rights. His situation raises concerns about the motivations behind such actions.
  3. Many believe that political leaders prioritize their power and financial interests over the welfare of citizens. This has led to calls for better investigative journalism to expose and address these corrupt practices.

Musk to audit the Pentagon?

C.O.P. Central Organizing Principle. • 36 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Military Public Policy Political Commentary Elections
  1. Elon Musk's involvement with the Pentagon raises concerns about conflicts of interest, especially since his companies benefit from military contracts. People question if he can truly audit the Pentagon without bias.
  2. Many believe the U.S. government's budget decisions prioritize military spending over helping the American public. This leads to frustration among citizens who feel their tax money is wasted.
  3. There is skepticism about whether genuine change will happen in military spending or audits, as past experiences indicate little accountability for budgeting issues in defense contracts.

Ukrainians And Americans Are Done With This War, But It Keeps Escalating Anyway

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1420 implied HN points • 28 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion Political Commentary International relations Media Critique
  1. Many people in Ukraine and the U.S. want the war to end, but it continues to escalate. It's frustrating that instead of working toward peace, governments push for more conflict.
  2. The idea of protecting democracy through war seems hollow when the focus is on sending young people to fight instead of finding solutions.
  3. Independent media can often get caught up in mainstream narratives, leading some to lose sight of their original purpose. Authentic voices are important for meaningful discussions.

The Ben Shapiro "Honesty" Hustle

Slack Tide by Matt Labash • 203 implied HN points • 15 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Election Analysis Media Critique Political Ethics Trump administration
  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.
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What Happened When I Asked Michael Shellenberger To Defend His Journalism

Singal-Minded • 1628 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Media Criticism Election Law Public Discourse Censorship
  1. Michael Shellenberger, known for his views on free speech, called for the government to revoke NBC's broadcasting license, which raises questions about his journalistic integrity.
  2. His claims about NBC breaking election laws were based on misinterpretations and lacked solid evidence, showing a drift into conspiracy thinking.
  3. The situation highlights how personal politics can distort professional standards, making it hard to trust someone's reporting if they confuse facts and emotions.

Israel Keeps Finding New Ways To Play Victim While Committing Genocide

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1876 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy War Elections Political Commentary Human Rights
  1. Israel is struggling to maintain its victim narrative while facing serious accusations of genocide. It keeps inventing new stories to play the victim role.
  2. The media often uses the term 'pogrom' incorrectly, applying it to minor incidents involving Israelis instead of acknowledging real violence against Palestinians.
  3. Trump is considering both anti-war and pro-war figures for his cabinet, and there's concern about the influence of hawkish advisors in shaping future foreign policy.

Yeah, Yeah, UNRWA Is Hamas. Everyone Israel Hates Is Hamas.

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2211 implied HN points • 30 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Issues Media Critique Foreign Policy Humanitarian Issues Political Commentary
  1. The Israeli government has banned UNRWA, which helps provide aid to people in Gaza. This shows how much the political situation affects humanitarian efforts.
  2. The narrative that groups like UNRWA are connected to Hamas is misleading. Many people and organizations are wrongly labeled as part of the conflict.
  3. There's frustration with how the Western media handles discussions about the Gaza conflict. Many feel that the coverage ignores the complexity of the situation.

Trump's Cabinet Picks Aren't Looking Good For Peace In Ukraine

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1383 implied HN points • 25 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Foreign Policy Government National Security Political Commentary
  1. Trump's cabinet appointments suggest a focus on aggressive policies toward Russia, rather than a peaceful resolution in Ukraine. This raises concerns about increased tensions.
  2. Key advisors like Mike Waltz and Sebastian Gorka support escalating military actions, which aligns with strategies of the outgoing Biden administration. This continuity might not lead to the peace many expect.
  3. There are fears that the incoming Trump administration could worsen the situation in Ukraine instead of improving it, potentially delaying any chance for peace.

The Face At The Front Desk Changes, The Corporation Remains The Same

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1643 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Foreign Policy Political parties Government Policies Political Commentary
  1. Political parties in the U.S. may seem different, but they often serve the same goals. It's like using both your left and right hand in boxing to win the fight.
  2. Support for politicians often overlooks their consistent harmful actions, regardless of party affiliation. Many voters mistakenly believe one side will drastically change things for the better.
  3. The actions of powerful leaders are often driven by profit and power, rather than thoughtful decision-making. This leads to irrational policies that hurt people and the environment.

Donald Trump’s Crab Bucket Moral Universe

Bulwark+ • 9414 implied HN points • 09 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Trump Election Fraud Courts Political Commentary
  1. Donald Trump's character is revealed through his treatment of war hero John McCain, showcasing a lack of respect and decency.
  2. Trump's behavior exemplifies a 'Crab Bucket Moral Universe' where he demeans heroism and operates with bitterness and envy.
  3. It is important to remember Trump's actions and behavior in 2024 to understand his lack of shame and ethical standards.

This Green and Pleasant Land

Disaffected Newsletter • 579 implied HN points • 12 Aug 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Social Issues Current Events Censorship Gender Politics
  1. In the UK, people are facing legal troubles for what they think and say online. Authorities are treating certain posts as thought crimes, which many find alarming.
  2. There seems to be a growing conflict between men and women, with each side feeling misunderstood and oppressed. Some women feel like men are not facing enough consequences for their actions.
  3. The episode covers various topics including humorous takes on current events and social issues, showcasing a mix of satire and commentary.

15 things I consumed this week

Maybe Baby • 1600 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Commentary Social Issues Current Events Activism
  1. It's important to read quality journalism to understand lessons from recent elections, rather than relying on social media.
  2. Supporting organizations like the Women's Emergency Network can make a difference in helping women access necessary healthcare, especially during tough times.
  3. Finding joy in small moments, like a child's birthday celebration, can provide a much-needed morale boost amid challenging news.

Psalm 137 On My Mind

Gideon's Substack • 21 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🌍 World Politics Middle East International Conflict Political Commentary Human Rights
  1. The film 'No Other Land' focuses on the struggles of villagers facing eviction in Masafer Yatta. It shows how they resist demolitions and try to maintain their community despite the challenges.
  2. The film presents a local view of the conflict and highlights feelings of injustice, but lacks broader political context. This can shift viewers' sympathies without understanding all sides.
  3. In conflicts like this, it's common to see only your own perspective. Broader understanding can be hard to achieve, but it's necessary for lasting peace.

It’s Time for Former Trump Officials to Come Out Against Him

Bulwark+ • 8196 implied HN points • 18 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Political Commentary Elections Political Figures Policy
  1. Former Trump officials are speaking out against him, highlighting his moral depravity and incompetence.
  2. There is a need for these officials to reach out to more people, especially swing voters, to convey the dangers of a Trump presidency.
  3. Former Trump officials should come together and make a sustained effort to speak out against him, prioritizing the truth over partisan loyalties.

The Tulsi Gabbard Smears Are Unfounded, Unfair, and Unhelpful

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1071 implied HN points • 01 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Foreign Policy Political Commentary Public Opinion Political parties
  1. Criticism of Tulsi Gabbard often focuses on her views about foreign policy, particularly regarding Russia and Ukraine. It's important to discuss her ideas rather than question her motives.
  2. Some political figures label Gabbard as a Russian asset without strong evidence, which can seem unfair and extreme. This kind of labeling can distract from actual discussions about her policies.
  3. Gabbard's past statements about diplomacy with tyrants have raised eyebrows. Many feel that during times of aggression, like Russia's invasion of Ukraine, strong responses are necessary rather than calls for neutrality.

Trump The Totalitarian

Points And Figures • 852 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Government Policy Election Issues Media Critique
  1. There is a strong desire for major changes in government policies, focusing on taking action against long-standing issues rather than just removing current leaders.
  2. People are questioning the integrity of different sectors, like healthcare and environmental policies, and there's a push for those in power to adopt free market solutions.
  3. There is skepticism about whether politicians will truly act against their own interests and make necessary cutbacks, reflecting a need for both parties to work together for real change.

The pleasure of error

Gray Mirror • 198 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Elections Political Commentary Government Structure Ideological analysis
  1. Politics and comedy are closely linked. Both can deliver strong messages and reflect society's values in a memorable way.
  2. Being wrong in predictions can show that our understanding or model of reality needs to be updated. It's important to recognize the forces at play that we might not have fully considered.
  3. Big changes in government are often necessary to make things more efficient. Sometimes it's better to start new systems rather than trying to fix old ones that aren’t working well.

The Fakers

Points And Figures • 932 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Activism Free speech Judiciary Political Commentary Social media
  1. SCOTUSblog has shifted from being neutral to more activist, particularly after controversial decisions like Dobbs. This change has disappointed some readers who valued its previous objectivity.
  2. There's a belief that angry reactions from people, especially on social media, are revealing their true, more extreme selves. This behavior sometimes leads to violent responses.
  3. The idea of 'free markets' is highlighted; when one platform leaves, another may fill the gap, showing that alternatives exist and can thrive based on demand.

The First Annual NonZero Awards

Nonzero Newsletter • 576 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Corruption Elections Political Commentary Media influence
  1. The NonZero Awards celebrate significant events and people from the previous year, recognizing both good and bad moments in media and politics.
  2. Corruption in politics often becomes a spectacle, with some cases, like those involving certain politicians, described in a humorous and exaggerated manner.
  3. The rise of AI has opened new discussions and concerns, notably regarding its use in both everyday tasks and potentially dangerous contexts, like propaganda.

Trump’s Back. What Now?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 194 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Commentary Government Public Policy Political Humor
  1. Donald Trump's recent inauguration had a mix of typical political elements with some unusual and entertaining choices, like dancing with a famous performance group.
  2. He changed the location of the ceremony because of cold weather and gave notable tech leaders special seating.
  3. His inauguration speech included a blend of serious topics and odd statements, making it feel less formal.

Defining Normalcy Down

Bulwark+ • 6446 implied HN points • 30 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Political Commentary Legal issues Conservatism Republicans
  1. The concept of 'defining normalcy down' involves lowering standards for acceptable behavior over time.
  2. Political figures can redefine 'normal' to fit their narrative or agenda, even in the face of concerning actions.
  3. The dilemma of 'anti-anti-Trumpers' lies in their struggle to balance opposition to Trump with their concerns about the left, leading to conflicting stances.

Election Countdown, 11 Days to Go: Reasons to be Brave.

Breaking the News • 1500 implied HN points • 26 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Civic engagement Political Commentary Media influence Voting Rights
  1. People should be brave and confident in their beliefs, especially during political campaigns. It's important to face challenges with determination and pride.
  2. Leadership and hope are powerful motivators for citizens. Most Americans want to strive for a better future together rather than succumb to negativity.
  3. Collaboration across political lines is essential. It’s crucial to focus on unity and the things we stand for, rather than getting lost in division and despair.

ATW Livestream Tonight at 8 PM ET/7 PM CT

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 1620 implied HN points • 28 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Commentary Government Public Policy Media
  1. There is a livestream event called 'America This Week' happening tonight at 8 PM ET. It's a great chance to tune in and catch some interesting discussions.
  2. The hosts, Matt Taibbi and Walter Kirn, are planning to talk about the upcoming election and how it relates to current events. It sounds like a timely topic with Election Day just around the corner.
  3. They might even include some Halloween themes in their discussions, like what Janet Yellen said about the U.S. dollar. It should be a fun and informative episode!

Putin's Tucker

Diane Francis • 5635 implied HN points • 12 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Criticism Political Commentary International relations War reporting
  1. Tucker Carlson acted more like a fan than a journalist during his interview with Putin, not challenging his claims at all. This left viewers without important facts about the war in Ukraine.
  2. Carlson framed his journey to interview Putin as brave journalism, but many real journalists wanted the chance and were denied. He was picked for his support of Russian viewpoints.
  3. The interview played into Putin's hands by spreading his false narratives. This undermined support for Ukraine at a critical time when the U.S. was debating military aid.

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 Elections Policy Analysis Media Critique Political Satire
  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.

Trump And The Dirty Little Secret of US Power

Phillips’s Newsletter • 115 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Government Policy Diplomacy Elections Political strategy
  1. Trump has suggested that the U.S. could take over Gaza, comparing it to a vacation spot like the Riviera. This plan would involve displacing the current Palestinian residents.
  2. This idea echoes previous proposals where Trump showed interest in acquiring territories like Greenland and Canada. It seems he believes the U.S. should expand its territory.
  3. Trump's proposal has received support from some political figures, indicating a willingness among certain leaders to back controversial ideas related to U.S. power.

🏫 A DARPA for education

Faster, Please! • 1370 implied HN points • 13 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Education & Policy Government reform Political Commentary Public Policy Economic Policy
  1. The U.S. Department of Education may need significant changes, focusing more on innovation and effective solutions rather than just maintaining the status quo. A proposed model inspired by DARPA could help create practical educational tools and practices.
  2. Shifting key functions of the Department of Education, like student aid and education research, to other agencies could improve efficiency. This would allow states to have more control over their education systems and tailor solutions to their specific needs.
  3. Using advancements in technology, especially artificial intelligence, could revolutionize education. A dedicated research organization for education could lead to important developments that enhance learning and address gaps created by recent challenges, like the pandemic.

Ukraine Should Not Have Attacked Russia, Just Like I Should Not Have Murdered O.J. Simpson

I Might Be Wrong • 17 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy International relations Public Opinion Political Commentary Conflict analysis
  1. Making mistakes is something everyone does, and it's important to admit when you're wrong and to learn from it.
  2. The relationship between Ukraine and Russia is complicated, and some argue that Ukraine's actions have been aggressive and unjustified.
  3. People should consider the consequences of supporting any country seen as an aggressor, as it could impact international stability in other regions.

Weekend Update #117: OK, the War was not Ended on Tuesday--So what Now?

Phillips’s Newsletter • 198 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy War Analysis Political Commentary International relations Political strategy
  1. Trump has made some comments suggesting he sees Russia as weaker than before, but he's still not supporting meaningful help for Ukraine. He focuses on getting a deal to stop fighting rather than ensuring Ukraine's security.
  2. There are mixed opinions about Ukraine's military situation. Some believe they have enough supplies to continue fighting, while others fear a collapse in the near future due to lack of support.
  3. Currently, Russian advances on the battlefield are very minimal. There is little change, indicating that the situation might not be as bad for Ukraine as some fear.

Individual Lies

Desk Notes by Charles Schifano • 133 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
📚 Literature Essays Philosophy Author analysis Political Commentary Historical context
  1. Small lies might seem harmless, but they can build up and lead to bigger problems later. It's better to confront uncomfortable truths today than to delay them.
  2. George Orwell's work teaches us the importance of honesty in writing and in life. Fighting for truth, even in small details, is crucial for true understanding.
  3. Choosing to go along with popular opinions or easy paths can harm your values. It's important to know your own beliefs before facing pressure from others.

Transcript - America This Week November 1, 2024: "The Celebrated New York Times Election Week Hit Job"

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 1347 implied HN points • 02 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Media Misinformation Political Analysis Political Commentary
  1. There is a collaboration between The New York Times and Media Matters that appears to target misinformation, especially around election content. Critics argue that this could influence public perception unfairly.
  2. Media Matters is described as an ideological group that aims to combat conservative misinformation, raising questions about its role as a source for mainstream news agencies.
  3. Concerns were raised about the timing of the article's release, just before the election, which some believe may affect the voting process and public understanding of the issues.

2024 Was the Year I Didn't Change Much

Richard Hanania's Newsletter • 2633 implied HN points • 27 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Elections Ideological analysis Cultural critique Immigration Policy
  1. The writer feels more confident that mainstream political science accurately describes society, as there's no sign of a democracy in crisis and the economy is growing well.
  2. The writer has become disillusioned with the Tech Right, observing that talented individuals in right-wing circles can start falling for misinformation and conspiracy theories.
  3. Despite facing criticism, the writer values intellectual honesty over maintaining friendships, believing it’s essential to prioritize truth and integrity in discussions about politics and social issues.

I’m Such a Hopeless Libtard That It Bothers Me When We Side With the Authoritarian Predator State

I Might Be Wrong • 13 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary International relations Political Satire Current Events Public Opinion
  1. Being part of a liberal community often comes with being self-aware and critical of oneself. It's okay to recognize when you might fit a stereotype.
  2. The Ukraine invasion highlights a moral need for the U.S. to support Ukraine against authoritarian aggression, reinforcing American interests.
  3. It's possible to have strong opinions while also feeling like you're just playing a role that others expect of you, especially in a politically charged environment.