The hottest Politics Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top News Topics
TK News by Matt Taibbi 1585 implied HN points 05 Jul 25
  1. Alligator Alcatraz is a new immigration detention center in Florida designed to hold over 3,000 illegal immigrants. It's built quickly on an old airstrip in the Everglades.
  2. Florida Republicans are using the facility to raise money by selling Alligator Alcatraz merchandise, which has caused mixed reactions from the public.
  3. The facility has sparked significant political debate and protests, highlighting different opinions on immigration issues in the state.
Culture Study 1564 implied HN points 06 Jul 25
  1. Traveling can expose us to the beauty of different cultures and histories. It helps us appreciate the world while also reflecting on the struggles that exist within it.
  2. It's important to find joy and hope even in tough times. Balancing happy moments with the reality of current events can be challenging but necessary.
  3. Supporting public art and education is crucial. Many people are advocating for change and ways to help those in need, highlighting our ability to work together for good.
Caitlin’s Newsletter 6621 implied HN points 04 Jul 25
  1. There's a new real counterculture forming in the West, especially seen at events like the Glastonbury Festival. Artists and fans are openly supporting movements like Palestine and really standing up to the establishment.
  2. For a long time, people in pop culture have acted rebellious but didn't challenge real power. Now, artists are risking censure and backlash from the government because they are speaking out about important social issues.
  3. Young people today feel frustrated and disillusioned, which is driving them to express their defiance. With social media, they see injustices firsthand, making it easier for them to rally together for impactful change.
Breaking the News 1346 implied HN points 19 Jun 25
  1. William Langewiesche was a well-respected figure in aviation and writing, known for his unique storytelling style. His work changed how many people view aviation and its complexities.
  2. He wrote a famous book called 'Stick and Rudder,' which is essential reading for pilots. His father's influence helped him become a skilled pilot from a young age.
  3. The FAA keeps public records of pilots, showing transparency about who has trained to fly. This information includes many famous personalities, highlighting the wide interest in aviation.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 1840 implied HN points 30 Jun 25
  1. You can connect with people despite having different political views. Finding common interests, like surfing, can bridge those differences.
  2. Personal relationships can surprise you. Even if you think you won't get along, shared activities can create strong bonds.
  3. Disagreements are part of any relationship, but they can coexist with friendship. It's important to respect each other's differences while enjoying time together.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:
Astral Codex Ten 25741 implied HN points 22 May 25
  1. USAID funds many charities, but does not give money directly to people. All funds first go through other charitable organizations.
  2. Overheads in charities, like salaries and audits, are necessary for ensuring that donations reach the intended causes. USAID’s overhead is about 30%, which is typical.
  3. Even with some flaws, USAID programs save millions of lives, and concerns about corruption are often exaggerated. Many charity workers genuinely strive to help others.
ChinaTalk 637 implied HN points 19 Jun 25
  1. Many people in Tel Aviv are very aware of the ongoing conflict, which affects their daily lives and conversations. This shared experience shapes the community's mindset significantly.
  2. Tel Aviv has a vibrant social scene, especially on Thursday nights, with many people enjoying the warm weather and going out to eat and drink together. The city's atmosphere helps combat feelings of loneliness.
  3. The food culture in Tel Aviv is diverse, with a strong burger scene and an emphasis on shared plates. Families seem to thrive here, as seen in the community's high birth rates and welcoming environment for children.
Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie 3816 implied HN points 22 Oct 24
  1. Pastors should focus on their local congregations and their real needs rather than seeking attention on social media. The people in their communities need spiritual guidance more than viral posts.
  2. It's important for pastors to lead people toward Jesus instead of political idols. Encouraging love and prayer for neighbors and leaders can help foster unity rather than division in challenging times.
  3. While voting is a civic duty, true hope and redemption come from faith in Jesus, not political outcomes. The Kingdom of God is everlasting, and that's what should matter most to Christians.
Wrong Side of History 322 implied HN points 20 Jun 25
  1. Communism was more than just economics; it was a strong way of thinking that people believed was the only true way. When people stopped believing in it, the system began to crumble.
  2. Similar to the past, many people today are losing faith in current ideas that progressives promote, as they feel these ideas don't always work as promised.
  3. When a society lacks a strong vision or belief, it can lead to big changes in politics and culture, like what we're seeing with rising nationalisms.
Noahpinion 16706 implied HN points 09 Jun 25
  1. Immigration should not be viewed as an invasion. It's important to recognize that it's about people seeking better lives, not a threat to society.
  2. Both political sides often exaggerate the impacts of immigration for their agendas. This can make people feel scared or confused about the real issues.
  3. The concept of illegal immigration has become more complicated over time due to changes in laws and asylum rules, making it harder for the public to understand.
Vicky Ward Investigates 119 implied HN points 31 Oct 24
  1. Yard sign theft is becoming a problem as election day approaches, especially in some communities. People are stealing signs for various political candidates, causing frustration for those trying to show their support.
  2. In a town where many liberal artists live, the focus is on the missing Harris/Walz signs, which keep getting stolen. This makes it harder for those wanting to display their political views.
  3. Replacing these stolen signs can be costly for residents, as they often have to buy new ones multiple times. The ongoing thefts are creating tension between different political views in the area.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 524 implied HN points 30 Jun 25
  1. Pamela Harriman was a key figure in 20th-century politics, known for using her charm and connections to influence important leaders.
  2. She married into the Churchill family and had an eventful life, including a troubled marriage and later becoming influential in U.S. politics.
  3. Her story highlights how personal relationships can play a huge role in shaping political power dynamics.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 2990 implied HN points 19 Jun 25
  1. Teaching classic texts like the 'Iliad' can take on new meaning when the students are soldiers. They relate deeply to the themes of war and sacrifice in the stories.
  2. Personal connections to war can be profound, as seen when students like Amir transition from studying literature to facing real-life battles.
  3. The contrast between a warrior's public role and their private life is significant. Characters like Hector highlight the dual nature of being committed to duty while also longing for family and peace.
Random Minds by Katherine Brodsky 56 implied HN points 01 Mar 25
  1. China is telling its AI experts not to travel to the US due to fears of espionage. This shows a growing tension in international relations over technology.
  2. A new mRNA vaccine shows promise in treating pancreatic cancer, with early trials indicating a high percentage of patients cancer-free after a few years.
  3. Biohybrid robotics are emerging, combining living materials like fungi with machines to improve their abilities. This could lead to smart robots that are more aware of their environment.
Nonzero Newsletter 225 implied HN points 28 Feb 25
  1. There's a growing interest in immortality and how technology, like AI, could help us live longer. Some people believe that embracing these advancements is the key to a better future.
  2. Not everyone agrees with how some tech entrepreneurs are promoting longevity. Critics say their methods and products are often unproven and may not lead to the promised health benefits.
  3. Studies show that bad behavior learned in one area can spread to other areas, especially with AI. Just like in humans, training AI on negative examples can lead to undesirable outcomes in different contexts.
Jeff Giesea 718 implied HN points 22 Oct 24
  1. AI is likely to displace a huge number of jobs, similar to how lamplighters lost their roles when electric lights came in. We need to prepare for these changes now to help people transition to new work.
  2. The Lamplighter Problem shows us that job loss due to automation is not just an economic issue but also a political and social one. If we don’t address it, it could lead to bigger problems in society.
  3. There are different opinions on how to handle the rise of AI. Some people think we should slow down and reconsider, while others want to speed up its development. We need to find a balanced approach that helps everyone.
Read Max 2608 implied HN points 13 Jun 25
  1. Social media has changed how protests are organized and perceived. Instead of helping activists share their message, it's often about generating attention and spectacle.
  2. The concept of 'optics' is now central to discussions about protests. People judge demonstrations based on how they look online, rather than their real impact or meaning.
  3. In the movie 'Sinners', the vampires symbolize a deeper connection and community. They represent a desire for unity and collective strength against oppression.
Erik Examines 1209 implied HN points 14 Feb 25
  1. Respect has to be earned, and many MAGA supporters haven't done that. They often act disrespectfully towards others but expect respect in return.
  2. There is a double standard where MAGA supporters don't recognize their own harmful statements. They can insult others but get upset when the same is done to them.
  3. Freedom is often misinterpreted. For some, it means the freedom to dominate others instead of true liberty for everyone.
Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality 238 implied HN points 21 Jun 25
  1. The concept of 'We the People' in the U.S. Constitution originally referred mainly to white citizens, with racial exclusion being a key part of that history.
  2. Some legal arguments today echo past ideas about racial citizenship, questioning who is included in the legal definitions set by the Constitution.
  3. There's ongoing debate about the historical voting rights of free Black men during the time of the Constitution's ratification, showing complexities in understanding who had a voice back then.
OK Doomer 69 implied HN points 28 Feb 25
  1. It's hard to keep up with all the news because there are so many updates happening every day. Important information can easily get overlooked.
  2. There's a need for news that offers context and is presented less frequently so we can process it better. Fast news can be overwhelming.
  3. To help people stay informed without the chaos, a new news roundup will provide important stories and analysis in a more digestible way.
Glenn Loury 2023 implied HN points 08 Oct 24
  1. It's okay to criticize someone's past views while still recognizing their current work as valuable. You can appreciate a good piece of writing even if you don't always agree with the author.
  2. Ta-Nehisi Coates expresses deep feelings about injustices he sees, which can be important in understanding his perspective. Understanding emotions in discussions about complex issues can lead to more meaningful conversations.
  3. Writing can be powerful, and even if you disagree with the message, you might admire the craft and skill of the writer. It's worth giving credit where it's due, regardless of personal beliefs.
Glenn Loury 337 implied HN points 24 Oct 24
  1. In the 1980s, many African Americans strongly opposed apartheid in South Africa. This shows a sense of unity against oppression, even if the situations were different.
  2. The conversation highlights how some issues today, like the treatment of Palestinians, can be more complicated than past issues like apartheid.
  3. Understanding historical context helps us see why certain causes gain widespread support while others struggle for the same level of recognition.
Richard Hanania's Newsletter 755 implied HN points 30 May 25
  1. The 'Lost Cause' narrative around DOGE is misleading. People need to recognize the falsehoods behind it to address real budget issues.
  2. Cruise ships are getting bigger and better because they aren't held back by strict regulations. This shows how market decisions can lead to impressive innovations.
  3. The unification of Italy was influenced more by foreign victories than by internal strength. It's interesting to see how some states are formed in unusual ways.
Papyrus Rampant 178 implied HN points 26 Oct 24
  1. Martin Luther posted his Ninety-Five Theses in 1517, which wasn't meant to start a movement but turned out to spark the Protestant Reformation.
  2. He challenged the sale of indulgences, emphasizing that faith in God, not money, is what saves people from sin.
  3. Luther's actions led to a push for education and Bible translation, helping more people understand their faith and read scripture in their own language.
Why is this interesting? 301 implied HN points 07 Jun 25
  1. There's a big change happening where fewer people prefer to have boys now, which is a positive shift.
  2. Some young people can live on just $432 a month in America if they're willing to move to a low-cost area like Massena, New York.
  3. Japan is dealing with a rice shortage, which prompted them to release a lot of rice from their emergency stockpiles to help manage the situation.
The Honest Broker 30154 implied HN points 04 Jan 25
  1. The power of art can overcome even the strongest dictators. Artists like Anna Akhmatova show that creativity can stand firm against oppression.
  2. Success in today's world is often measured by money and popularity, but true creative expression is about more than just those metrics.
  3. Even when artists face harsh censorship, their work can survive and resonate over time, leading to eventual recognition and respect.
Random Minds by Katherine Brodsky 121 implied HN points 22 Feb 25
  1. Scientists are tracking a fast radio burst from a dead galaxy. This challenges what we thought we knew about how these signals can happen.
  2. A new blood test called PAC-MANN could help find pancreatic cancer earlier. Early detection can really improve treatment outcomes for patients.
  3. Chocolate prices are going up because of bad weather and disease affecting cocoa production in West Africa. This means chocolate bars may get smaller or more expensive.
Sex and the State 21 implied HN points 21 Jun 25
  1. Choosing a clear topic helps you find your audience better. Having a specific niche makes it easier to write and connect with readers.
  2. Getting attention is crucial for your writing to be read. You can either pay for ads or create content that sparks strong emotions to get more people talking.
  3. Experimenting with different strategies helps you learn what works best for your content. Using advertisements can teach you valuable lessons for your organic outreach later.
Culture Study 12118 implied HN points 23 Feb 25
  1. Art and essential services matter, but they often lack sufficient public funding in America. Many believe value only comes from profit, which overlooks the importance of community support.
  2. Cuts to public services mean that everyday Americans are forced to shoulder more costs. This creates a fragile system that risks collapse during tough times, like the pandemic.
  3. Passion jobs, where people work for love rather than money, are at risk as public funding declines. This leads to burnout and instability for those who dedicate themselves to these important roles in society.
Thinking about... 683 implied HN points 20 May 25
  1. Ed Martin has been appointed as the 'weaponization czar' to use the law against Americans, which is seen as a move towards authoritarianism. His role focuses on intimidating and punishing people who haven't committed any crimes.
  2. Martin has connections with Russian propaganda outlets and has aligned his views with those of Trump, creating a troubling overlap between American politics and Russian interests. This connection shows how dangerous authoritarian practices can spread.
  3. The appointment of someone like Martin raises concerns about the growing influence of foreign propaganda in U.S. politics and highlights the need to recognize the reality of such connections in understanding current political events.
Disaffected Newsletter 499 implied HN points 17 Sep 24
  1. There were technical issues that caused half an hour of the show to be lost, including important debate analysis. The hosts plan to redo it and offer more content soon.
  2. Residents in Springfield, Ohio, are expressing concerns about a large influx of Haitian immigrants and how it affects their community.
  3. A guest discusses the issues of responsibility among gay men concerning health risks linked to promiscuity. The conversation highlights the need for awareness and personal accountability.
Slack Tide by Matt Labash 210 implied HN points 30 May 25
  1. People are noticing small wins lately since big achievements are hard to come by. It shows that sometimes you have to celebrate the little things.
  2. Trump is being linked to tacos in a funny way due to his trade decisions. This light-hearted connection has sparked some positive feelings about him.
  3. Many feel weary of bad trade ideas, fearing more economic strain. People want to avoid paying higher prices for things because of poor decisions.
Unreported Truths 70 implied HN points 06 Jun 25
  1. Elon Musk and Donald Trump have very different personalities and styles. Musk is focused on big, visionary goals, while Trump is more about managing perceptions and negotiating.
  2. Musk's recent comments about Trump crossing a line with Epstein claims seem impulsive and may not be backed by solid evidence. This could damage Musk's reputation instead of helping him.
  3. There are concerns about Musk's drug use, especially ketamine, which could be affecting his behavior negatively. People worry he might need help managing his stress and responsibilities.
Disaffected Newsletter 1998 implied HN points 15 Aug 24
  1. Some older people are still stuck in the past, thinking their youth and ideas from the 1960s still represent today's reality.
  2. Many friends love to share nostalgic stories about their past activism, but they sometimes seem more about reliving glory than promoting understanding.
  3. People who change their political views often feel pushed away by their former friends, showing that kindness fades when faced with disagreement.
The Honest Broker 9009 implied HN points 17 Feb 25
  1. Suffering is often seen as part of being an artist, but research shows it might not be true for creativity. Instead, suffering may boost ambition, especially in leaders.
  2. History shows that many successful leaders and creatives had difficult childhoods, like losing parents. This loss may actually spark creativity rather than hinder it.
  3. The idea that suffering drives creativity is backed by studies showing a link between personal loss and artistic achievement throughout history.
TK News by Matt Taibbi 13645 implied HN points 04 Jan 25
  1. Many people are frustrated with confusing news and feel like they're being manipulated by those in power. It seems authorities are not being honest with the public.
  2. The term 'Gaslit Nation' suggests that citizens feel deceived and misled about important issues. Trust between the public and officials is eroding.
  3. There's a sense that sensational stories are distracting people from real problems. People want clearer communication from their leaders and more transparency.
The Fry Corner 21522 implied HN points 02 Feb 24
  1. Groups of people can behave in predictable ways, even if individuals within those groups act randomly. This means we can anticipate the behavior of a crowd better than that of a single person.
  2. Statistics play a big role in predicting risks and behaviors. For example, actuarial tables help insurance companies set rates based on the likelihood of certain events, regardless of the reasons behind those probabilities.
  3. There is often a disconnect between how we view groups of people versus individuals. While we might feel negatively about humanity as a whole, we tend to appreciate and trust the individuals we meet in our daily lives.
Dada Drummer Almanach 505 implied HN points 28 Jan 25
  1. Thinking creatively during tough times can help us hold onto our reality. It's important to find a personal truth even when the world feels distorted.
  2. Art can be a powerful tool against oppressive forces, as shown by Chaplin's famous speech in 'The Great Dictator.' Speaking out against injustice can attract both support and backlash.
  3. History shows us that silencing voices of opposition is a strategy used by fascists. We must stay connected and support one another to resist these challenges in the present.