The hottest Political Commentary Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top U.S. Politics Topics
bad cattitude 245 implied HN points 03 Jan 25
  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.
Rob Henderson's Newsletter 4091 implied HN points 06 Nov 24
  1. People are surprised that calling someone 'Hitler' doesn't always change opinions. This shows that extreme labeling may not impact how others vote or think.
  2. Some fear that Americans might elect a controversial or criminal figure as president. This reflects concerns about the current political climate and choices.
  3. The situation highlights a deeper debate about political tactics and their effectiveness. Some tactics may backfire or become less relatable in real-life decision-making.
Silver Bulletin 386 implied HN points 31 Dec 24
  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.
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Today's Edition Newsletter 9650 implied HN points 13 Sep 23
  1. The impeachment inquiry by McCarthy is a sham without any concrete basis, causing distraction and harm to Congress and the American people.
  2. Vladimir Putin has praised Donald Trump, highlighting the need to ensure US election security before the 2024 elections.
  3. Child poverty nearly doubled due to the termination of pandemic-related economic assistance by Senator Joe Manchin and Republicans.
Disaffected Newsletter 899 implied HN points 01 Jul 24
  1. The idea of 'standing' means someone has to be affected by an issue to bring it to court. But in everyday life, anyone can talk about any issue, even if they aren't directly affected.
  2. When people start to realize uncomfortable truths, like those on the left feeling shocked, it may take time for them to process it. They might struggle to accept what they've known deep down.
  3. It's okay to feel close to your community without needing to feel afraid. Trusting your friends and being open about your feelings is important.
Unreported Truths 77 implied HN points 19 May 25
  1. Biden recently announced having prostate cancer that has spread, raising concerns about the seriousness of his health. This announcement comes amidst scrutiny of his mental fitness for office.
  2. There are questions about why Biden, being an elderly president with health risks, may not have had routine cancer screenings. His health choices have sparked discussions about medical responsibilities for those in high positions.
  3. People are increasingly skeptical of how the media handles Biden's health issues. Many are starting to push back against narratives that seem to downplay concerns about his declining health or to silence legitimate questions.
The Watch 416 implied HN points 20 Dec 24
  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.
eugyppius: a plague chronicle 363 implied HN points 29 Dec 24
  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.
Unmasked 54 implied HN points 10 Feb 25
  1. Anthony Fauci has admitted to lying during the COVID pandemic, suggesting he didn't always tell the truth about key issues.
  2. There are ongoing investigations that could still hold Fauci accountable despite any pardons he might receive.
  3. The discussion includes concerns about his decisions on public health measures, like lockdowns and vaccine mandates, which many feel were misleading.
Phillips’s Newsletter 164 implied HN points 21 Jan 25
  1. Trump criticized Biden's support for Ukraine during his inauguration, calling it a national betrayal. This signals a shift in US foreign policy, raising concerns for Ukraine's future support.
  2. Trump's move to halt the TikTok ban is seen as a significant abuse of presidential power and questions the rule of law in the US. It suggests he can change laws at will, which is troubling for democracy.
  3. The response from American companies about TikTok may indicate their willingness to support authoritarianism over legal standards. If they prioritize profit over the law, it could weaken the spirit of democracy in the country.
Erdmann Housing Tracker 231 implied HN points 09 Jan 25
  1. The software used by landlords to set rents has been blamed for rising rental costs. However, it's only responsible for a small fraction of the rent increases compared to other factors like low housing supply.
  2. Many cities are reacting to rising rents by trying to legislate against the software, even though it has a low market share in the most expensive areas. This means other bigger issues are being ignored.
  3. People need to reassess their economic beliefs and focus on more significant causes of high rents, rather than getting fixated on algorithms and large corporations, which may not be the main problem.
The Chris Hedges Report 86 implied HN points 24 Jan 25
  1. Chris Hedges is hosting a live Q&A about Trump and Palestine. He encourages people to join and ask questions during the session.
  2. The discussion likely focuses on the impacts of Trump's policies on the situation in Palestine, which is a sensitive and important topic.
  3. People can support Chris Hedges' work by subscribing to his publication, which offers both free and paid options.
Phillips’s Newsletter 213 implied HN points 12 Jan 25
  1. Trump's recent comments show he might be using Russian reasoning in his foreign policy views, particularly concerning allies and Ukraine. He seems less focused on maintaining alliances and more on adopting a confrontational stance.
  2. Ukraine is working on improving its long-range strike capabilities, having conducted significant attacks deep into Russian territory. This suggests they are trying to change the dynamics of the war despite facing difficulties.
  3. The situation on the ground in places like Donbas and Kursk remains stagnant, indicating a continued need for Ukraine to implement effective long-range strategies to alter the current conflict state.
Diane Francis 979 implied HN points 06 Jun 24
  1. Donald Trump was convicted on 34 felony counts, but many Americans still believe he had a fair trial. The legal system held a powerful person accountable, showing that the rule of law is still strong.
  2. Trump's reputation in New York is not great, with many viewing him as a 'conman.' Despite this, he plans to use his convictions to rally support for his re-election campaign.
  3. Polling shows that a significant number of people, including independents and some Republicans, think Trump should end his campaign now that he's a convicted felon.
Points And Figures 1172 implied HN points 17 Oct 24
  1. Kamala Harris didn't perform well during her interview. Many commentators noticed her lack of effectiveness in answering questions.
  2. Some people tried to find positive aspects in her responses, but the overall reaction was mostly negative. Her interview may be used in ads to highlight her long-winded answers.
  3. The discussion about her personality and presence was critical, with some finding her annoying. This could affect how undecided voters view her.
Caitlin’s Newsletter 512 implied HN points 27 Nov 24
  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.
C.O.P. Central Organizing Principle. 30 implied HN points 01 Feb 25
  1. There's a belief that the terms 'DEI' may be used to covertly express racist and sexist ideas, suggesting they're more about exclusion than inclusion. This implies that these words could hide harmful attitudes.
  2. Some argue that actions taken by figures like Musk and Trump are damaging the diversity in government jobs and that this could lead to serious legal challenges for discrimination. This raises concerns about fairness in hiring based on factors like race and gender.
  3. There’s a sentiment that the right-wing is intentionally undermining government functionality to push a political agenda. This could create a backlash where people hold leaders accountable for these perceived failures.
Remarkable People 519 implied HN points 10 Jul 24
  1. A dinner conversation in Berlin made someone reflect on how people responded to fascism in the past. It's important to think about our actions and choices in today's political climate.
  2. The writer felt a strong duty to resist negativity and support what they believed in, even if it meant facing backlash. They realized that standing up now is important for future generations.
  3. Everyone should consider how they will explain their actions to their grandchildren someday. Will they be proud of their decisions to defend democracy or regret not speaking up?
Aaron Mate 176 implied HN points 12 Jan 25
  1. Trump wants to make peace in Ukraine and plans to meet with Putin to discuss it. He believes the conflict needs to be resolved as it’s become a disaster.
  2. This approach is very different from the current U.S. administration, which is hesitant to engage with Russia diplomatically.
  3. While many view Russia's actions as aggressive, Trump thinks there should be a conversation to find a resolution rather than continuing the war.
I Might Be Wrong 12 implied HN points 18 Feb 25
  1. Elon Musk seems to think he's in a really important moment, like during the French Revolution when they abolished feudalism. He feels like he’s paving the way for big changes, but it's essential to recognize that not everything radical becomes a success.
  2. People often want to be part of something historical or monumental, which can lead to unrealistic expectations. Just like the excitement of starting a new project, it can be easy to overlook the hard work and details needed to achieve real results.
  3. Reality tends to catch up with enthusiasm. After the initial hype, like what happened after the French delegates celebrated their victory, serious questions and challenges arise that need to be addressed.
Singal-Minded 629 implied HN points 05 Nov 24
  1. Voting is important for democracy and should not be taken for granted. It's a privilege that helps shape the future and should be viewed as a responsibility.
  2. Mainstream media can misinterpret or misreport statements, especially from influential figures like Trump, which can create confusion among voters. Proper context is essential for understanding political discussions.
  3. The Democratic Party needs to reflect on its strategies and communication regarding Trump. To effectively convince the public, they should consider new approaches instead of repeating past tactics.
Points And Figures 1039 implied HN points 11 Oct 24
  1. The author believes Kamala Harris lacks intelligence and creativity in her political actions. They think her methods are often emotional rather than based on facts.
  2. They argue that her background in politics has made her a typical party follower rather than an original thinker. They feel this is a problem for representation.
  3. The author feels that voting for someone they perceive as 'stupid' is dangerous, especially in important matters like foreign policy and economics. They think strong leadership requires intellect.
A B’Old Woman 919 implied HN points 25 May 24
  1. Young people are acting just like they always have and are not the problem in society. The real issue lies with adults who fail to take responsibility and guide the youth.
  2. It's important for adults to use their life experience to help young people learn how to handle power and responsibility. Young leaders may not always be ready, so they need support from experienced adults.
  3. Mixing generations is valuable, but adults in leadership roles need to have enough life experience. This way, they can manage situations better and set a good example for younger people.
Unmasked 73 implied HN points 30 Jan 25
  1. The left-wing media has struggled to accept the reality of COVID after five years. Many people feel that the media should show some humility after being wrong about key issues.
  2. Experts like Anthony Fauci, who had significant influence during the pandemic, are seen as having caused harm without taking responsibility. There's a belief that these figures should be held accountable for their misleading advice.
  3. Research suggests that COVID restrictions did not effectively control the spread of the virus and resulted in significant financial and social damage. Many people are questioning the value of these measures.
Diane Francis 859 implied HN points 27 May 24
  1. Taking regular breaks is important for recharging and staying creative. Taking some time off can help you come back with fresh ideas.
  2. Sharing interesting content from other sources can spark new conversations. It’s a good way to engage with your audience and keep things lively.
  3. Staying informed about global events is crucial, especially when discussing topics like the Ukraine conflict. It helps to understand different viewpoints and the bigger picture.
The Weekly Dish 217 implied HN points 20 Dec 24
  1. The Dish provided accurate insights about the events of 2024. It didn't mislead readers about what was happening in the world.
  2. The author expresses confidence in their previous analyses and opinions. They feel validated in their perspectives and predictions.
  3. There's a focus on the importance of trustworthy information in media. Readers are encouraged to rely on sources that provide honest and clear narratives.
Bet On It 583 implied HN points 04 Nov 24
  1. The election is a predictable source of strong emotions and tribalism, which many find overwhelming and not funny at all. It's better to take a step back from the chaos during this time.
  2. Politicians and voters have worsened the state of democracy, with extreme views gaining traction on both sides. This has led to worries about the future of American politics.
  3. Despite the bleak political outlook, focusing on personal improvement and small changes in your life can help cope with the frustrations of the political environment.
Richard Hanania's Newsletter 2267 implied HN points 16 Oct 24
  1. People can learn from both positive and negative role models. It's important to focus on the ideas of others rather than their personal traits.
  2. Our behavior can be shaped by how others behave, so it's good to admire the right people and reject the wrong ones.
  3. Having a strong value system helps us choose who to look up to and who to avoid in our lives.
Phillips’s Newsletter 183 implied HN points 05 Jan 25
  1. The Ukrainian military showed strong resilience and has successfully gained ground against Russian forces, particularly through offensives like the Kursk Offensive.
  2. Russia's military has faced significant challenges, suffering high casualties and losing strategic territory despite seizing a small fraction of Ukraine's land.
  3. Support from the US and Europe is crucial for Ukraine's continued success, but there are concerns that political influences could hinder effective assistance.
C.O.P. Central Organizing Principle. 36 implied HN points 26 Jan 25
  1. Trade tactics can be seen as acts of war according to international law. This means that economic strategies might escalate tensions between nations.
  2. Many believe that the US has lost control of its trade policies, leading to a decline in American-made goods and increased economic struggles for workers.
  3. To improve the economy, investing in American workers and lowering costs like rent could help increase consumer buying power and create a more stable economic environment.
bad cattitude 404 implied HN points 14 Nov 24
  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.
The Chris Hedges Report 57 implied HN points 23 Jan 25
  1. There will be a live Q&A discussing what might happen in Palestine under a Trump administration. This means viewers can ask questions and get insights directly.
  2. The talk is set for a specific time, and people can participate by posting their questions beforehand. It's a good opportunity for those who are engaged in this topic.
  3. The event is focused on understanding the future relationship between the U.S. and Palestine, especially with recent developments like a ceasefire. It's important to keep questions brief to get good answers.
Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter 1313 implied HN points 12 Dec 24
  1. Media often simplifies and twists comments to create drama. This can lead to misunderstandings about what people really mean.
  2. People may feel joy or relief about systemic issues being highlighted, not about individual tragedies. It's important to focus on the bigger picture.
  3. The public should question the media's motives and not just react to headlines. It's crucial to think critically about narratives pushed by powerful figures.
Disaffected Newsletter 439 implied HN points 30 Jun 24
  1. Biden had a really tough time in the recent debate, and it was so bad that it might make you cry or laugh.
  2. Mike Harlow, a former leftist turned conservative, shares his experience of transitioning in New York City and discusses reactions from others in the LGBTQ+ community.
  3. The show also covers various topics, including interesting cultural discussions and funny moments related to politics.