The hottest Political Commentary Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top U.S. Politics Topics

PROJECT SYNDICATE: Trump's Smoke & Mirrors

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 884 implied HN points • 09 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. Trump's actions often focus on getting attention rather than creating real change. Many of his plans are more about performance than effective policy.
  2. The media needs to separate Trump's true policies from his showmanship, but many outlets are caught up in the drama instead.
  3. Trump's potential policies could harm the economy, and it's crucial for clear information to be shared so the public can understand the impact.

Dingus of the week: Everyone who is mad about Zohran Mamdani

Men Yell at Me • 439 implied HN points • 27 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. There's a movement in NYC for socialism that aims to raise wages and make life more affordable, which some people are reacting to negatively.
  2. Backing politicians who support corruption is seen as hypocritical, especially when they disregard kindness and community support.
  3. The conversation around social issues is getting heated, but it encourages discussions that could help improve society.

Dingus of the week: The Epstein Files

Men Yell at Me • 375 implied HN points • 18 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. The Epstein files, which may contain important information about powerful people, have not been released, raising questions about accountability and transparency.
  2. Some conspiracy theorists are angry with Trump for not delivering the files they believed would expose a supposed cover-up.
  3. The article highlights the irony of people believing extreme conspiracy theories while doubting women's testimonies, showing a clear bias in how truth is perceived.

Dingus of the week: Jubilee Media

Men Yell at Me • 351 implied HN points • 25 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. Jubilee Media creates controversial content that often stirs debates on sensitive topics, but it may not be contributing positively to public discourse. It focuses on attracting views rather than promoting genuine understanding.
  2. The media's style often resembles 'debate culture' where extreme viewpoints clash. This can lead to harmful discussions rather than constructive conversations about serious issues.
  3. In a light-hearted note, the summer humidity in places like the Midwest is humorously described as 'corn sweat,' highlighting both the agricultural culture and the discomfort it brings to those living there.
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Commentator

Castalia • 419 implied HN points • 08 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. Different opinions exist about Claudine Gay's resignation from Harvard, with some seeing it as a failure of liberal institutions and others blaming the focus on diversity and inclusion efforts.
  2. The 14th Amendment's potential use to disqualify Trump raises concerns about political crises, with many believing that fair elections should resolve political disputes instead.
  3. In the Israel-Gaza conflict, concerns about potential ethnic cleansing indicate a troubling direction for Israel's policies, while the U.S. is increasingly pushed to reconsider its support for Netanyahu's government.

In which Trump makes the EU pay $1.35 trillion for the privilege of paying 15% unilateral tariffs on exports & lectures the Eurotards on the stupidity of wind turbines for good measure

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 326 implied HN points • 28 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. Donald Trump negotiated a deal with the EU that makes them pay $1.35 trillion while facing a 15% tariff on exports. This shows the EU's lack of strength in trade talks.
  2. The agreement includes the EU investing $600 billion in the U.S. and purchasing $750 billion in energy. It seems like a one-sided deal that puts the EU at a disadvantage.
  3. Trump criticized wind energy during a press conference, calling it expensive and harmful to the environment. He highlighted the challenges of using windmills, saying they hurt landscapes and wildlife.

Dingus of the week: The “America Party”

Men Yell at Me • 371 implied HN points • 11 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. Elon Musk is starting a new political group called the 'America Party,' but it doesn't seem to have any clear ideas or goals yet.
  2. A lot of discussion is happening about how Musk's actions have affected the political landscape, especially since he has a controversial reputation.
  3. Despite being called a genius, many people question Musk's actual ability to innovate and create real change, pointing out that he often just buys or borrows ideas.

Did Trump Just End a War—or Start One?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 403 implied HN points • 22 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. There's a lot of discussion about whether recent military actions will bring peace or create more conflict. People have mixed feelings about it.
  2. Social media is buzzing with reactions, from joy to anger, as many express their political views on these developments.
  3. It’s unclear what the long-term effects of this situation will be. Even officials might not fully understand what's happening right now.

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

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

Barstool Sports: A Conservative Think Tank

JoeWrote • 98 implied HN points • 21 Nov 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. Modern conservatism seems confusing because its supporters often mix traditional values with ideas that don’t always align, like supporting abortion rights while promoting traditional gender roles.
  2. People like Dave Portnoy express a feeling of being attacked or blamed by society, which may not reflect reality but shows how many conservatives perceive cultural shifts.
  3. There’s a tendency among conservative figures to blame social issues on things like college culture and feminism, rather than addressing the real sources of problems they discuss.

The Tulsi Gabbard Smears Are Unfounded, Unfair, and Unhelpful

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1071 implied HN points • 01 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  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.

HOISTED FROM THE ARCHIVES: Trump Does Not Have the Cognitive Competence to Do the Job

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 253 implied HN points • 16 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. There are concerns about the cognitive abilities of political leaders, particularly in high positions like the presidency. Many believe that those in power need clear thinking to make important decisions.
  2. Some people are shocked by the extreme views and behaviors of certain politicians and their supporters. They wonder how far some individuals are willing to go in supporting these leaders.
  3. Media portrayal of political figures can often normalize their actions, which might mislead the public. It's important to critically analyze how news is presented.

With friends like this…..

Inside-Out, political commentary from Philip Stephens • 314 implied HN points • 10 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. Speculation about the contest between Joe Biden and Donald Trump might end before November, as Trump's dishonesty catches up with him.
  2. Many self-identifying progressives seem determined to see Trump win, as they target Biden's age instead of Trump's concerning behavior.
  3. Media's relentless focus on Biden's age may influence the public perception, potentially affecting the election outcome.

Gulag For You

Points And Figures • 959 implied HN points • 24 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics 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.

White House May Have Violated Presidential Records Act By Altering Biden’s “Garbage” Remark In Transcript

Michael Shellenberger • 1123 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. The White House may have changed Biden's words in a transcript, which could break the Presidential Records Act. It looks like they tried to soft-pedal a remark he made about Trump supporters.
  2. Biden was caught on video saying that the 'only garbage' he sees is related to Trump's supporters, despite attempts to clarify it afterward. This has led to mixed messages from the White House and media.
  3. Past Democratic leaders, like Obama and Clinton, have also made negative comments about Trump voters, indicating a pattern of disdain within the party towards those who support the opposite side.

How ‘The Babylon Bee’ Predicted the Vibe Shift

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 913 implied HN points • 02 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Political Commentary
  1. The Babylon Bee is a conservative satire site that found success by filling a void in political humor, particularly when most comedy was coming from the left. They use humor to comment on current events and political absurdities.
  2. The site has faced scrutiny and censorship from big tech companies for its jokes, especially those that challenge progressive ideas. Their CEO believes defending satire is crucial for free speech.
  3. Many of the Babylon Bee's jokes have turned out to be surprisingly prophetic, capturing and predicting cultural trends and reactions. This shows how humor can reflect and influence the times.

EXCLUSIVE: Trump Is Starving the National Endowment for Democracy

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 760 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. The National Endowment for Democracy is facing severe funding cuts under Trump's administration. This could impact its ability to promote democracy worldwide.
  2. The situation at the National Endowment for Democracy is one of the significant changes happening in Washington today.
  3. Understanding these changes is important as they could affect important international relations and democratic efforts globally.

The Kamala Interview

Points And Figures • 1172 implied HN points • 17 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  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.

Trump Says: Drill, Baby, Drill. The Stock Market Says: No Way.

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 319 implied HN points • 09 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. Despite policies favoring fossil fuels, the stock market is still leaning towards clean energy companies. This shows a shift in investor confidence toward renewable resources.
  2. Clean energy stocks have been rising, while oil and gas company stocks are falling. This unexpected trend suggests a growing focus on sustainability.
  3. New laws aimed at promoting fossil fuels may actually lead to increased electricity prices and reduced clean energy generation in the future.

... And Justice for All?

Wrong Side of History • 408 implied HN points • 25 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  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.

We were right about EVERYTHING

Disaffected Newsletter • 1338 implied HN points • 08 Mar 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. Some people believe they were right about the pandemic being overhyped and used to control citizens' rights.
  2. They think the government and health officials acted unreasonably and that many people supported harmful actions.
  3. There's a strong feeling of resentment towards those who went along with these actions, with a call for acknowledgment and apologies.

Civil War (the movie) is absolutely right and completely wrong.

Think Future • 159 implied HN points • 18 Apr 24
🎭️ Culture Political Commentary
  1. The movie 'Civil War' presents a dystopian-horror road movie with haunting vignettes and no clear good vs. bad sides.
  2. The film's message is a cautionary tale about the dangers and consequences of wishing or inciting a civil war.
  3. The movie serves as a stark reminder of the potential horrors and complexities of a civil war, urging viewers to be wary of the consequences.

Biden Is No Longer Fit For Office

Yascha Mounk • 59 implied HN points • 01 Jul 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. Joe Biden seems to be struggling with serious mental issues, which was clearly shown during a recent debate. It's noticeable that he has moments when he is confused or loses his train of thought.
  2. Many people, including those in the media, are now openly saying that Biden should step down. However, instead of just focusing on his age, they should also recognize the real reasons why he may not be suited to continue as president.
  3. Biden stepping down could allow for a more capable leader to guide the country, especially in critical situations. It's important to have someone in charge who can make tough decisions quickly and effectively.

The Fakers

Points And Figures • 932 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  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.

Chaos Monkeys at the Gate: Elon Musk, Donald Trump, & the Unraveling of Rocket-&-Rage-Tweet Tech Statesmanship

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 361 implied HN points • 14 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. Elon Musk initially found success by overpromising but often delivered exceptional results with his companies, like Tesla and SpaceX. However, this ability may have been overshadowed by his association with Donald Trump.
  2. Musk's close relationship with Trump, while beneficial in certain cultural aspects, poses significant risks to his businesses and financial interests. Trump's policies could threaten the viability of Musk's ventures.
  3. Musk underestimated the power dynamics at play and did not secure enough protections for his interests. His strategy to deal with Trump seems ineffective, leading to a retreat from previous positions.

Dingus of the Week: Kristi Noem

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

Why the New York Jewish Left’s Little Magazine "Dissent" Still Has Much Unfinished Business

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 292 implied HN points • 10 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. Dissent magazine is important for holding power accountable and promoting progressive change. It's not just about opposing ideas; it's about helping to create workable policies for society.
  2. The idea of 'passing the baton' means that those who are more experienced should support newer, more left-leaning voices in politics. It's about cooperation rather than just stepping back.
  3. In today's political climate, a strong magazine like Dissent is needed to fight against authoritarianism and ensure that diverse viewpoints are heard. It's crucial for meaningful change to keep discussions alive.

Make America a Continent Again

Atlas of Wonders and Monsters • 729 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  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.

Why Tucker Carlson Is Fixated on Jeffrey Epstein

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 278 implied HN points • 18 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. Tucker Carlson is interested in Jeffrey Epstein and is using his case to push certain narratives. This is gaining attention and could play a role in future elections.
  2. There seems to be a divide forming in the political right, separating those who support Trump and those who are skeptical of him.
  3. Some of the claims being made about Epstein are outrageous and lack solid evidence, including bizarre allegations about Israel's involvement.

Trump The Totalitarian

Points And Figures • 852 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  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.

Dingus of the Week: Everyone except Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde

Men Yell at Me • 729 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. Trump's recent actions and decisions seem reckless and disconnected from reality, drawing strange comparisons to the past.
  2. Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde's plea for compassion during a recent prayer service highlights the importance of kindness to vulnerable people, despite backlash from conservative commentators.
  3. There is a growing sentiment that the established political rules are no longer effective, and new, bold strategies are needed to create positive change.

Dingus of the week: Mark Zuckerberg

Men Yell at Me • 753 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. Mark Zuckerberg announced that Meta is shutting down its fact-checking department, claiming it's biased. This means users can share their opinions without being corrected.
  2. Misinformation on social media has led to real violence and harm, raising concerns about the consequences of this new policy. People have been hurt or even died because of false information spread online.
  3. The community has shown kindness by supporting important causes, like abortion access. Together, people can make a difference and help those in need.

I Wish Trump Supporters Would Just Throw Us The Occasional Bone Over The Next Few Years

Singal-Minded • 660 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. There is a strong divide between Trump supporters and those who oppose him, and it seems difficult to bridge that gap. Many people feel uneasy about the extreme loyalty Trump receives from his supporters.
  2. Unlike how critics discuss Biden and Harris, Trump's actions and comments often go without much criticism from his supporters, who tend to protect him more fiercely.
  3. Trump's blame for recent incidents on diversity requirements reflects his ongoing opposition to DEI initiatives, which some believe can overshadow genuine discussions about hiring practices. It's a complex conversation that needs clarity.

You Can't Vote For Dumb

Points And Figures • 1039 implied HN points • 11 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  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.

C-SPAN, Paranoia, Sleeping Babies

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 909 implied HN points • 20 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary
  1. You can watch my C-SPAN interview about various topics related to public affairs. It's interesting to see how different subjects are discussed in media.
  2. I have a new lecture series on the psychology of social status, exploring why people seek status and how it influences behavior. This could help you understand social dynamics better.
  3. I shared some links to articles that discuss responsibility in society, paranoia, and modern issues. These readings could offer a deeper understanding of our current world.