The hottest Political strategy Substack posts right now

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

Trump’s Trade War Is On. Plus. . .

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1604 implied HN points • 03 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy
  1. Trump is imposing high tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China, which has sparked a strong response from these countries. Canada is retaliating with its own tariffs, indicating that this trade conflict could escalate quickly.
  2. RFK Jr. is gaining attention in politics, especially among a group called MAHA that aims to change the healthcare system. There are varying opinions about him, with some supporting his ideas and others critiquing them.
  3. A new conservative calendar featuring bikini models has been released, showing a trend among some on the right to embrace a more provocative image. However, its artistic quality is being questioned by critics.

Biden, Gavin, and Kamala

Diane Francis • 1039 implied HN points • 20 Nov 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy
  1. Biden and Trump are both seen as old and controversial candidates, raising concerns about their age and ability to lead. Many worry about what it means for the future of America.
  2. California Governor Gavin Newsom could be a strong choice to replace Kamala Harris as Biden's running mate. He has popular support and experience as a leader.
  3. The idea of swapping Harris for Newsom is unique and could strengthen Biden's chances in the election. It’s based on loyalty but could help prevent a Trump presidency.

Euros Fight Back!!!

Diane Francis • 899 implied HN points • 14 Dec 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy
  1. The EU has started talks to let Ukraine join, showing strong support for Ukraine against Putin. This decision represents unity among European nations.
  2. Hungary's Prime Minister faced pressure from other leaders, including a tactful dinner invitation from Macron. This helped to avoid any vetoes on Ukraine's accession.
  3. The EU's support for Ukraine's fight means that Putin's strategy to divide and conquer has failed. Ukraine is now backed by a stronger coalition of nations.

This Progressive Has a Plan to Win Trump’s Base. Steve Bannon Calls It ‘Brilliant.’

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1493 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy
  1. Ro Khanna wants to connect with voters who feel ignored, especially those who support Trump. He believes he can win them over with the right message.
  2. There was a heated exchange between Khanna and J.D. Vance about a controversial figure who made racist comments. Khanna thinks it's important to discuss these issues openly.
  3. Khanna feels that the political climate should encourage respectful conversations rather than insults. He values honest dialogue over divisive arguments.

Trump vs Kamala: Who's winning online?

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 2179 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy
  1. Trump is getting a lot more social media attention compared to Kamala, with nearly double the mentions. This shows he has a strong online presence.
  2. Most social media talks about the candidates are negative, but older voters seem to have a more positive view of Kamala. Younger people prefer Trump.
  3. Trump's approach focuses on longer content like podcasts, which helps him connect better with his audience. Kamala's shorter, snappy content may not build the same strong relationships.
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The Attack on Somalis is Hate Politics

Unpopular Front • 102 implied HN points • 11 Dec 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy
  1. There is a growing anti-Somali sentiment in Minnesota fueled by political leaders, which is making the community feel unsafe and unwelcome. This kind of hate politics can lead to serious consequences for the targeted ethnic group.
  2. Right-wing figures are spreading harmful stereotypes and false narratives about the Somali community, claiming it's linked to crime and terrorism without any real evidence. Such baseless accusations serve to incite fear and division among people.
  3. The political climate is shifting towards one where hate and online misinformation play a significant role in shaping public opinion, creating an environment where the voices of marginalized communities are further suppressed.

Walk Away

Points And Figures • 1279 implied HN points • 01 Mar 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy
  1. In negotiations, it's important to be willing to walk away if the terms aren't right for you. This shows that you have confidence and won't settle for less than you need.
  2. Understanding the other side's perspective and reading the situation correctly can help you negotiate better. It's crucial to know who the decision-makers are during the process.
  3. Sometimes, negotiations can drag on too long, and if you sense it's not going well, it might be smart to walk. Trust your instincts and don't be afraid to bail if the deal feels wrong.

Cowboys and Indians

The J. Burden Show • 718 implied HN points • 31 Dec 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy
  1. In imaginary games like 'Cowboys and Indians,' there is a tendency for the predetermined 'Indian' side to always lose, reflecting a common theme seen even in media and narratives.
  2. The dissident right tends to unite in opposition to the current social order rather than around specific beliefs or leaders, driven by a shared dislike of the regime in power.
  3. To avoid falling into traps set by opponents, it is advised to avoid reacting in a predictable manner and instead act prudently, not becoming the 'Indian' that reinforces the power of the Left.

Six Ways Being a Cardplayer Helps me Analyze Politics

Matt’s Five Points • 199 implied HN points • 21 May 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy
  1. Understanding the rules of the game is key in both cards and politics. Just like in a card game, knowing the rules of political systems helps you make better decisions and predictions.
  2. Political players have different goals, just like card players. It's important to recognize that not everyone is trying to win; some are in it for fun or other reasons.
  3. Many times, outcomes in politics and card games are influenced by chance. Good players focus on making smart decisions rather than stressing about random events outside their control.

Why the anti-ICE protests are so ugly

Unreported Truths • 59 implied HN points • 14 Jan 26
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy
  1. Anti-ICE protesters are in a strategic bind because immigration laws target migrants, not the mostly American demonstrators, so their only way to matter is to force officers into arresting or confronting them.
  2. This is different from the civil rights era: those protesters were arrested under the unjust laws they opposed, but many Americans support stricter immigration controls today, so exposing enforcement won’t easily change the laws.
  3. Because protesters can only win by provoking ugly confrontations, a practical response for ICE is often to ignore them and continue operations even if that means letting some migrants go, which denies the protesters the spectacle they need.

ICE is melting

Unreported Truths • 40 implied HN points • 28 Jan 26
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy
  1. California enrolled about 1.6 million undocumented people in Medi‑Cal with few eligibility limits, costing Americans nearly $10 billion a year, and that spending issue is getting little attention.
  2. The administration sharply cut illegal southern border crossings, especially by families, but heavy‑handed ICE tactics, misleading official statements, and resulting protests and deaths have undermined that success.
  3. Most Americans support a tough immigration stance short of unlimited sanctuary, and a workable path (like fines and legal stays for long‑term noncriminal residents), plus better ICE training and stricter rules of engagement, could deescalate the crisis and refocus the debate.

No better room

benn.substack • 1815 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy
  1. The team had multiple backup plans ready for the election night, but they ended up not needing them at all because the outcome was clear very quickly. This shows how sometimes, despite all the preparation, things can turn out differently than expected.
  2. Even though they lost the election, the atmosphere in the room was charged with intensity and urgency as they worked together to process data. The experience was thrilling, highlighting the importance of being actively involved even when facing tough situations.
  3. The hardworking people behind the scenes may not get recognition for their efforts after a loss, but their commitment and dedication are valuable. They might be unnoticed now, but their hard work is still important for future efforts.

Bottom-half folks voted for Trump because they’re lonely

Sex and the State • 50 implied HN points • 09 Jan 26
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy
  1. Loneliness and weak family formation are concentrated among people with lower income and education, and these social breakdowns help explain much of bottom-half support for Trump.
  2. Working-class voters feel fear, pain, and distrust because they see downward mobility and unstable families, which pushes them toward populist, anti-elite politics.
  3. To win these voters back, liberals should focus on rebuilding social connections and opportunities for stable, upwardly mobile families, since fixing loneliness (as well as poverty) matters more than just handing out more welfare.

A Note on the Closing of the Path to Future U.S. Hegemony—Economic, Political, Geostrategic, Cultural

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 453 implied HN points • 29 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy
  1. The U.S. is losing its power and influence on the world stage quickly due to poor leadership and chaos in politics. This could lead to a world where no single country dominates, instead resulting in a balance of powers.
  2. The possibility for China to rise as a new global leader is uncertain. While they have the means, it’s unclear if they will be able or willing to take on such a role effectively.
  3. Hegemony isn't guaranteed; it requires ongoing effort and cooperation with other nations. The past strength of the U.S. didn't ensure its future influence, highlighting that global leadership can fade quickly.

The Free-Dumb Caucus

Diane Francis • 959 implied HN points • 05 Oct 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy
  1. The impeachment of Speaker McCarthy shows deep divisions in the Republican Party, with a small group of far-right members holding a lot of power. This could lead to a frustrating gridlock in the House of Representatives.
  2. The ongoing chaos in Congress might affect important issues like spending and foreign aid. If the disputes continue, it could cause significant problems for the U.S. economy and international relations.
  3. Trump’s influence is still strong, as his supporters refuse to accept majority rule, which could hinder cooperation within the party. The situation might force Republicans to make tough choices about their leadership and direction.

The story of Trump's win was foretold in New York City

Silver Bulletin • 1588 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy
  1. Trump's support is growing even in traditionally Democratic areas like New York City. His vote share has significantly increased compared to past elections.
  2. The Democratic Party needs to understand why they lost and reassess their strategies. Many people are questioning what went wrong and looking for answers.
  3. The mood after the election was calmer than in 2016, suggesting people are more prepared for surprises in politics now. This clarity might help the Democrats focus on better decisions moving forward.

Construction

Points And Figures • 1172 implied HN points • 25 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy
  1. Trump's experience in construction gives him an advantage during natural disasters, as he can expedite recovery efforts.
  2. There are issues within government agencies that seem to hinder effective communication and response, which some believe should be eliminated or reformed.
  3. Republicans are urged to prepare and organize for upcoming elections to ensure they support candidates who align with small government principles.

Short bill, lots of lessons

Matt’s Five Points • 179 implied HN points • 13 May 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy
  1. The Israel Support Assistance Act is a short bill that highlights how Congress can influence executive policy through budget control. Even though it might not become law, it shows how powerful Congress can be using funding restrictions.
  2. This bill features several types of provisions, such as appropriations limitations and fencing provisions, which directly affect how the government can use allocated funds. These techniques give Congress a way to steer or block executive actions.
  3. Even though most of the provisions may not be enforced, they're part of a strategy to make political statements and possibly create division among Democrats. It's a way for Congress members to show where they stand on issues without necessarily aiming for a law.

Will Celebrities Ever Realize That They're Not Helping?

I Might Be Wrong • 22 implied HN points • 04 Feb 26
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy
  1. When celebrities make political declarations at big events, it often provokes backlash and can end up helping the opposition instead of the cause.
  2. Catchphrases like "no one is illegal on stolen land" can be internally inconsistent and give opponents easy ammunition.
  3. Celebrities often act in their own interests, so staying quiet or using modest, thoughtful tactics tends to be more effective than grand public statements.

The Nippon Steel Deal: A Master Class in Winning the Working Class

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 533 implied HN points • 09 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy
  1. The Biden administration's decision to oppose the U.S. Steel and Nippon Steel merger is viewed as a political move that could benefit Donald Trump.
  2. Formerly strong Democratic areas, like Minnesota's Iron Range, showed a shift towards Republican support, signaling changing political loyalties.
  3. The Iron Range's voting trends reflect a broader discontent among working-class communities, especially in relation to union and job security issues.

Wellesley College, Patriotism, Social Anxiety

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 1420 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy
  1. Many people feel proud to be American and see the U.S. as a land of opportunity. This belief is especially strong among non-white voters.
  2. The differences in values about patriotism and crime among voters show a divide between party messaging and what many common people feel. It suggests that certain messages may not resonate with everyone.
  3. Open plan offices can increase stress and negative mood, leading to more sick days compared to traditional cubicles. This impacts worker well-being and productivity.

The Shutdown Was a "Brilliant" Political Move

OK Doomer • 131 implied HN points • 12 Nov 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy
  1. The recent government shutdown didn't yield any clear victories for the Democrats. They stood up for themselves but lacked a solid plan for achieving their goals.
  2. Despite appearing to win the public opinion battle, the Democrats failed to make any real progress in negotiations with Republicans.
  3. Trump's push to eliminate the filibuster could change the game, allowing Republicans to pass laws more easily without needing Democratic support.

Kamala Harris was a replacement-level candidate

Silver Bulletin • 1376 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy
  1. Kamala Harris was seen as an average candidate, which was not enough in a tough election year for Democrats. Instead of standing out, she blended in with the party, making it hard for voters to be excited about her.
  2. Many believe that Biden's performance as president hurt Harris's campaign, as he focused on tough issues and overshadowed her messaging. This made it difficult for her to establish her own identity separate from him.
  3. Harris struggled with her political stance, trying to appeal to both the left and the center. This confused voters and may have cost her support compared to other Democratic candidates who were clearer about their positions.

The game theory of Trump's tariff threats

Silver Bulletin • 978 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy
  1. Trump's tariff threats focus on Canada and Mexico, two neighbors that depend heavily on the U.S. for trade. This puts the U.S. in a position of power, even if such threats can backfire.
  2. The economics suggest that while tariffs might hurt all involved, Canada and Mexico would suffer significantly more than the U.S. This creates a dangerous imbalance in trade negotiations.
  3. Trump's approach may work as a short-term tactic, but it risks future relations with Canada and Mexico, leading to resentment and potential retaliation if pressured too much.

The Opportunity Costs of Offensive War

Points And Figures • 1039 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy
  1. Opportunity costs are important when making decisions, especially in war. They help clarify the impacts of our choices by forcing us to think in numerical terms.
  2. Advanced technologies like drones and robots are changing warfare. These advancements could minimize human losses, which changes how countries weigh the risks of engaging in conflict.
  3. Winning the tech race is crucial for national security. If a country falls behind in technological advancements, it could lose its strategic advantages in future conflicts.

Have the Democrats Learned Nothing?

Life Since the Baby Boom • 922 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy
  1. The Democrats seem to be repeating past mistakes instead of learning from them. Many people believe they are doing what has already failed them.
  2. In the 1980s, the Democratic Leadership Council was formed to make the party more centrist after major losses. This shows that they have faced similar challenges before.
  3. History may repeat itself again, with a possible clash between moderate and activist members within the party. It will be interesting to see how this unfolds.

Democrats Are Still Getting Rolled by Their Interest Groups

Richard Hanania's Newsletter • 1462 implied HN points • 11 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy
  1. Interest groups have a strong influence on the Democratic party, often guiding their decisions and actions.
  2. Political strategies focusing on character and rhetoric might overlook the importance of representing wider coalitions.
  3. Recent labor strikes, like the one involving longshoremen, highlight the challenges Democrats face when balancing interest group demands with broader voter concerns.

Why Women Rebel against Pro-Life

Richard Hanania's Newsletter • 5169 implied HN points • 11 Apr 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy
  1. The abortion issue has been a negative for Republicans and a strong issue for Democrats, impacting elections.
  2. Women experience pregnancy and childbirth with significant physical and emotional challenges, making abortion regulations a matter of personal autonomy and rights.
  3. Pro-life stances create concerns about government intervention, privacy, and the intentions of those pushing for restrictions, especially seen in the context of women's autonomy.

Memo to Trump: Beware the ‘Reverse Teddy’

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 908 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy
  1. Trump's recent actions have shown strength in dealing with issues in Latin America, but it may come at the cost of ignoring global concerns.
  2. In his first term, Trump managed to maintain a strong presence in Europe and Asia, avoiding new conflicts and making significant deals.
  3. There are worries that in his second term, Trump might focus too much on the Western Hemisphere and neglect vital international relationships.

Chris Hedges Live Q&A TOMORROW: Mass Mobilization and Stopping Authoritarianism

The Chris Hedges Report • 72 implied HN points • 08 Dec 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy
  1. A live Q&A will focus on how mass mobilization and strikes can push back against growing authoritarianism.
  2. Viewers can ask questions in the comment section beforehand and during the livestream on YouTube and X, so the session will be interactive.
  3. Participants are asked to keep questions brief, and a recent dock workers strike in Italy is presented as a real-world example of these tactics.

How British Abortion Advocates Overplayed Their Hand

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 412 implied HN points • 23 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy
  1. British lawmakers recently voted to decriminalize abortion until birth, a big change for the country's abortion laws. Supporters believe this will enhance reproductive rights and prevent women from facing criminal investigations after ending a pregnancy.
  2. Some feminists are worried that pushing for such extreme changes might lead to a backlash against abortion rights. They think it's important to find a balance and not go too far too fast, which could hurt the movement.
  3. A proposed amendment aimed to establish abortion as a human right and remove almost all regulations. However, many critics argue that this could create more problems than solutions.

Maybe Nigel's not coming

Joxley Writes • 353 implied HN points • 02 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Political strategy
  1. Nigel Farage's return to politics seems uncertain, causing speculation.
  2. Farage's potential comeback might be risky due to previous election losses and lack of impact expectations.
  3. Farage's involvement with the Reform Party could limit his influence on the Conservative Party post-election.

Some notes on the Speakership fight

Matt’s Five Points • 619 implied HN points • 23 Oct 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy
  1. The Republican Party is facing major divisions, and support for candidates is changing rapidly. Members are feeling torn between party loyalty and personal preference.
  2. There are many candidates for Speaker, and the primary dynamic has shifted to a more free-for-all contest. This means lesser-known candidates may have a better chance than big names.
  3. Rules within the party are causing more problems than helping, making it hard for a candidate to get the support needed on the floor after securing a conference nomination.

Six lessons from the 2024 election

Comment is Freed • 77 implied HN points • 03 Dec 25
🌍 World Politics Political strategy
  1. Campaign drama and memorable moments are often overvalued and don’t usually shift polls or decide elections. Polls are often stable for long periods, so single events rarely change the outcome.
  2. When votes do move, it’s frequently because of issue-driven polarization (like Brexit) rather than a leader suddenly winning new supporters, so apparent gains may not be a lasting realignment. Parties risk mismatch if their policies don’t fit the new voters they attract.
  3. Avoiding election myths requires careful, data-driven analysis and new thinking about a more fragmented electorate; media and campaign strategies should adapt to changes in polling and coverage.

Shadow Cabinet

Thinking about... • 888 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy
  1. A shadow cabinet can provide an alternate political voice to the ruling party. This would give citizens access to different viewpoints and expert opinions on government actions.
  2. The existence of a shadow cabinet could help reshape American politics by promoting positive change and daily dialogue, rather than just focusing on election seasons.
  3. Having a shadow cabinet would also support the media by providing named experts who can comment on government issues, helping journalists offer more informed and diverse perspectives.

When you’re a star, the Supreme Court lets you do it

Can We Still Govern? • 308 implied HN points • 23 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy
  1. The Supreme Court has been allowing Trump to bypass laws that previous presidents followed, which raises questions about fairness and equality in governance.
  2. Trump's administration has been defying court orders and using executive power to restructure government agencies without proper checks from Congress, weakening its authority.
  3. The current legal environment makes it hard for other institutions to challenge Trump's actions, leading to concerns about the health of American democracy and the potential for authoritarian rule.

Kill the Chicken to Scare the Monkey

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 928 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy
  1. Identity politics can be used to create fear and control within groups. This can lead to people feeling pressured to conform to certain beliefs.
  2. Groups often engage in public shaming or 'struggle sessions' to enforce conformity. This method makes individuals afraid to speak out or be different.
  3. Understanding these tactics can help individuals navigate social pressures better. Knowing how fear works in group dynamics can be empowering.

Ninety Days for Zero Deals, & Zero Certainty for the Future

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 330 implied HN points • 08 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy
  1. Trump's trade deals created a lot of noise but little real action. Instead of actual agreements, there were just threats and vague promises.
  2. Countries are struggling to manage the unpredictability of U.S. trade policies. They are trying to either appease or confront the U.S. while also finding ways to protect their own economies.
  3. This situation leads to uncertainty in the global market, making it hard for businesses to plan. Investors are more worried about policy changes than about any inherent advantages in trade.

Trump, Mamdani, and Cluely

Kyla’s Newsletter • 339 implied HN points • 25 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy
  1. Attention is becoming the main resource in politics and economies. It shapes what gets funded or noticed.
  2. Narratives matter a lot - powerful stories can influence public opinion and decision-making. The right message can win elections and funding.
  3. Speculation is how we test ideas before they happen. People are making bets on what they think will be important in the future, which affects how resources are used.

Will Trump Seek a Third Term, Despite The Epstein Files?

OK Doomer • 91 implied HN points • 17 Nov 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy
  1. Trump is hinting at running for a third term, but many are ignoring it as a serious possibility. People are skeptical, thinking it won't happen.
  2. There's a buzz about the release of the Epstein files, which might impact Trump. It seems he may have found a way to avoid blame related to them.
  3. Even though some say the MAGA movement is fading, history shows it might rise again. Past challenges haven't stopped them, and they often come back stronger.