The hottest Populism Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top U.S. Politics Topics
Richard Hanania's Newsletter 1194 implied HN points 30 Jan 25
  1. The discovery of Propecia for hair loss came from studying children in the Dominican Republic who had unique genital characteristics. This led to the development of a drug that helps prevent hair loss by replicating a natural enzyme deficiency.
  2. In South Korea, older people are becoming involved in right-wing politics, similar to trends seen in the U.S. This shows how different generations can align politically for various reasons, often driven by fear or conspiracy beliefs.
  3. The shift in Silicon Valley regarding corporate power highlights that political influence often outweighs economic power. Companies can change their policies quickly under political pressure, showing that government authority is central to real power.
Dana Blankenhorn: Facing the Future 59 implied HN points 07 Oct 24
  1. The roles of the Democratic and Republican parties have changed. Nowadays, Democrats are seen as the ones supporting individual rights and national defense, while Republicans under Trump lean towards populism.
  2. Populism in America has deep roots, especially in religious communities. This shift has been influenced by technology, money, and changes in the legal framework regarding church and state.
  3. Democracy is facing significant challenges, but there's hope that non-religious Republicans may distance themselves from the current party leadership. The democratic system might need rebuilding in the future.
Wrong Side of History 650 implied HN points 11 Nov 24
  1. Democrats are losing popularity because people care more about rising prices than political debates. Many voters prioritize their economic well-being over party loyalty.
  2. Trump has changed the game by uniting different racial groups in his support. His approach shows that diversity can work well in politics, differing from traditional views.
  3. Right-wing populism may be growing in non-traditional ways, with diverse communities supporting it. This reflects a shift in how voters align their beliefs with political parties.
bad cattitude 212 implied HN points 24 Dec 24
  1. Many people are becoming overly fixated on specific leaders or figures, leading to a broader lack of understanding and critical thinking about the issues at hand.
  2. The current education system often does not encourage true critical thinking, resulting in people who are more focused on memorizing slogans than engaging in meaningful discourse.
  3. There's a shift happening where social media is becoming a new space for open discussion and debate, moving away from traditional education institutions.
Pekingnology 67 implied HN points 16 May 25
  1. Trump's victory in the 2024 election showed that many voters are unhappy with the current state of the country. His focus on addressing economic issues resonated with people who felt left behind.
  2. The rise of right-wing populism is reshaping American politics, but this conflict over identity and values isn’t going away anytime soon. Different groups express their concerns through varying political movements.
  3. Even with Trump in power, big reforms won't be easy due to ongoing political divisions. His goals may face strong opposition, showing that change in politics is often complicated and slow.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:
Bet On It 518 implied HN points 21 Nov 24
  1. Populism can be seen in a positive light when it speaks against corrupt elites. It can represent the voice of ordinary people wanting change.
  2. Javier Milei is an example of a populist leader in Argentina who has taken significant steps to challenge the established political system and improve the country's situation.
  3. Some critics dismiss populism entirely as bad, but it's important to recognize that not all populists are the same; some can actually promote good governance.
Erik Examines 44 implied HN points 06 Feb 25
  1. Technology has a huge impact on politics. In the past, things like new communication methods made it easier for big movements to arise, just like how social media is shaping today's political landscape.
  2. Migration is driven more by technology and educational access than just poverty or war. Today, smartphones and the internet help people migrate and connect with communities that weren't possible before.
  3. Populist movements are gaining power in many countries as people react against changes from immigration and modernization. This backlash can feel similar to what happened during the rise of fascism in the 1930s.
The Abbey of Misrule 498 implied HN points 07 Nov 24
  1. Many people feel frustrated with the political and media establishment, and they want change. This feeling is similar to what led to movements like Brexit and the rise of populist parties.
  2. Progressive leftism and corporate capitalism are working together more than ever. Both are promoting a modern world that values technology and globalism, often ignoring local traditions and cultures.
  3. There's a growing push for a different approach rooted in local identities and community values. Some believe we need to focus on what truly matters in our lives, rather than getting caught up in modern political divisions.
Richard Hanania's Newsletter 1267 implied HN points 30 Nov 24
  1. Ecuador is facing serious gang violence that is affecting its stability. The situation is so bad that the government may need to act more like it's in wartime to regain control.
  2. Polling methods can vary in accuracy. Asking who neighbors plan to vote for might give better predictions, though it's been hit or miss in the past.
  3. Populism can have its benefits in certain situations, like in Argentina, but often it leads to anti-liberal and statist policies. It's important to see the good and the bad aspects of populism.
Jeff Giesea 1317 implied HN points 18 Mar 24
  1. Populism often focuses on complaining about elites rather than solving problems. It can lead to a mindset that values grievances over constructive actions.
  2. Elitism can be redefined as a positive force for leadership and excellence. Society needs leaders who can guide people and address real challenges instead of just gaining power.
  3. If you see problems in the world, you should step up and take action. You have the ability to be a leader in your own way and make a difference where you are.
Thinking about... 740 implied HN points 29 Dec 24
  1. The Mump regime combines the influence of wealthy individuals like Elon Musk and Donald Trump, who represent a powerful oligarchy. They control political and social narratives for their gain.
  2. Mumpers are people who support or submit to this regime, often ignoring their own governmental responsibilities. This leads to negative behavior like spreading misinformation and avoiding accountability.
  3. The society described as Mumptopia is one where technology and media dictate people's beliefs and values, creating a distracted and disillusioned population that is disconnected from real issues.
Unpopular Front 56 implied HN points 08 Jan 25
  1. Jean-Marie Le Pen's passing may seem like a relief, but his far-right ideas have become more mainstream through his daughter's leadership.
  2. Le Pen's style of politics, which focuses on populism and scapegoating immigrants, has influenced other global leaders, including Trump.
  3. The rise of national populism weakens traditional democratic values and promotes division based on race and nationality.
Jeff Giesea 898 implied HN points 16 Apr 24
  1. Embracing political homelessness can feel freeing. It's like hitting the road after a tough breakup, where you can think for yourself and explore new ideas.
  2. The writer feels disillusioned with the Trump movement, seeing it as more of a threat to America. They now want to support a healthier political landscape instead.
  3. Despite political changes, the writer still holds onto many center-right values. They recognize the need for better solutions and are looking to contribute to positive political and global changes.
Fisted by Foucault 199 implied HN points 30 Nov 24
  1. Populism is on the rise due to many people feeling left behind by the system. This is especially true for the middle class, who are struggling to maintain their living standards amid economic changes.
  2. The failures of liberal democracy have led to a distrust of elites and institutions. Events like the 2008 financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic showed that many people's lives are worsening, making them more receptive to populist ideas.
  3. Some political movements have broken away from traditional left-right ideologies. In many cases, both sides have ignored the working class, which has opened the door for new political expressions and movements.
eugyppius: a plague chronicle 154 implied HN points 18 Dec 24
  1. Establishment politics are struggling to manage public discontent. This has led to the rise of populist movements that the elites can't control.
  2. The ruling elite should adapt their policies to keep the public satisfied, but they often don't. This can lead to losing political power and control.
  3. Current political strategies are inflaming opposition instead of calming it down, which is a big problem for governance in Western democracies.
Faster, Please! 456 implied HN points 12 Oct 24
  1. Free trade is good for the economy because it helps increase productivity and wages. Even if it disrupts some jobs, the overall benefits are greater.
  2. Tech companies are starting to embrace nuclear energy to power their data centers. This move aims to cut carbon emissions and manage rising energy demands.
  3. Despite economic challenges, the American system has shown resilience. The economy has adapted and grown stronger after tough times like the financial crises.
Striking 13 1577 implied HN points 15 Dec 23
  1. The European Union navigated complex political challenges with a mix of negotiation and compromise, showcasing the effectiveness of careful diplomacy over populism.
  2. The European Union's core principle of uniting economies to prevent war is facing challenges from rising populism, border control issues, and shifts in global trade dynamics.
  3. The recent events surrounding Ukraine's EU membership aspirations highlight the importance of the European Union's approach to politics, emphasizing peace, compromise, and true freedom.
Fisted by Foucault 180 implied HN points 26 Nov 24
  1. The US is seeing some major changes in its foreign policy due to a new incoming administration, which could complicate the situation in Ukraine. This transition may affect how the US interacts with Russia and its allies.
  2. Recent arrest warrants by the ICC for world leaders, including Israel's Prime Minister, have raised questions about the fairness of international justice and America's role in it. This has made the US look hypocritical to other countries.
  3. Germany's economy is struggling, with job cuts and company shutdowns indicating a larger issue. Many Germans feel their country isn't what it used to be, leading to potential shifts in political support.
Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality 253 implied HN points 03 Nov 24
  1. Populism has a history of connecting leaders with the people's needs. Unlike some modern populists, historical figures often focused on clear policy goals that aimed to help the public.
  2. Modern political movements sometimes rely more on fear and division rather than serving the public's needs. This shift can lead to leaders who promise protection without actual improvement in people's lives.
  3. The way people view historical figures like Andrew Jackson can change based on the context of their actions, showing that understanding history requires looking at both policies and motivations.
In My Tribe 516 implied HN points 29 Dec 24
  1. People have different biases based on their political views. For example, those on the left focus more on oppression, while those on the right emphasize threats from outsiders.
  2. Elites are often held to higher standards than those challenging them. When elites show arrogance or suppress dissent, they can create backlash against themselves.
  3. It's important for communities to protect themselves against bad actors who misuse the idea of victimhood. Without this protection, those with harmful intentions can take control.
Who is Robert Malone 16 implied HN points 03 Feb 25
  1. Accusations of fascism are often used by some to attack political opponents, especially those who are center-right or populist. This can be seen as a sign of weakness in their own arguments.
  2. Modern left-wing politics in Europe may have more similarities with historical fascism than they care to admit, while right-wing populist movements are unfairly labeled as fascist.
  3. The focus should be on promoting freedom of thought and speech, as well as encouraging individual choices in health and economics, to improve society and counteract failing globalist policies.
Welcome to Absurdistan 1474 implied HN points 08 Jul 23
  1. Populism is gaining traction worldwide, as evidenced by recent events and shifts in power.
  2. Corporations and media outlets are facing resistance and pushback from a growing populist movement.
  3. There is a significant movement towards change and opposition to established systems and norms.
Unpopular Front 32 implied HN points 05 Jan 25
  1. Jimmy Carter's presidency is often viewed as a failure, but his policies led to a shift towards neoliberalism in the Democratic Party.
  2. There is a troubling connection between South African apartheid and modern American capitalism, highlighted by the views of tech leaders like Peter Thiel.
  3. Recent trends in the tech world show a dangerous ideology that suggests certain people should always be in power, echoing old systems of inequality.
Striking 13 1058 implied HN points 24 Nov 23
  1. Countries around the world are facing a rise in populism, with notable victories for right-wing figures like Javier Milei and Geert Wilders.
  2. While economic policies like Biden's stimulus plan have shown success, they may not always align with public perception, highlighting a disconnect.
  3. The European Union is grappling with challenges posed by populist leaders like Viktor Orban, impacting critical decisions such as Ukraine's accession talks.
From the New World 16 implied HN points 24 Jan 25
  1. Many people believe that democracy and populism cannot work together. This creates a worry that democracy is failing.
  2. There is a lot of talk about free speech and how it might hurt democracy. People are questioning if this is true.
  3. Some argue that social media is damaging to democracy. Yet, it raises the question of whether those claims about democracy's end are valid.
Gideon's Substack 97 implied HN points 27 Nov 24
  1. There's been a shift in the people who hold real power in society, moving from landowners to those with skills and education, known as the meritocratic class. Now, we might be seeing the rise of a new group focused on gaining attention.
  2. Right-wing populism seems to rise from a reaction against the meritocratic upper class, attracting those who feel alienated by the success of educated elites. This new group connects more with traditional values and has different pathways to success.
  3. The way we compete for attention today has changed how success is defined, especially with social media's influence. The idea of being an 'influencer' could shape a new class, where winning attention plays a crucial role in gaining power and status.
TK News by Matt Taibbi 1236 implied HN points 27 Jan 24
  1. The Supreme Court allowed border control agents to remove razor wire Texas installed at the Mexico border due to obstruction issues.
  2. The story only pertains to the specific technique of using razor wire at the border and not Texas' broader efforts to secure it.
  3. The Biden administration argued that the razor wire hindered agents' duties, making it harder to enforce the law and control irregular migration.
Unpopular Front 70 implied HN points 29 Nov 24
  1. Trump's new approach, called Neo-Fusionism, mixes both national populism and libertarian ideas. This means he supports average people's values while also favoring some libertarian policies.
  2. There's a conflict between wanting a strong government to push Trump's agenda and the libertarian wish to reduce government power. This creates challenges in balancing these different beliefs.
  3. Understanding the different thinkers, like Rothbard and Francis, helps to explain the complexities and contradictions in Trump's coalition and overall politics.
In My Tribe 349 implied HN points 22 Nov 24
  1. There are situations where the law isn't followed as written, and officials can create their own rules. This can lead to them only helping those who know how to navigate these unofficial processes.
  2. Some experts believe that a more advanced society might need less democracy, with more reliance on specialized knowledge and secrecy. This suggests a shift away from traditional democratic values.
  3. Social media can amplify extreme voices, which affects how society views issues and political figures. It mixes up the way we see our neighbors and can deepen divisions.
O Observador de Corcyra 923 implied HN points 09 Apr 23
  1. Recent decrees in Brazil are potentially reversing progress in public policies, particularly in the sanitation sector.
  2. The current government's actions reflect a historical trend of state appropriation by bureaucratic elites, impacting social and economic outcomes.
  3. Policy changes, like those affecting sanitation, may serve political interests at the expense of societal progress and taxpayer welfare.
Unpopular Front 67 implied HN points 29 Oct 24
  1. Trump's public persona is a lot like a pro wrestler. He swings between being a hero and a villain, and this theatrical style draws people in.
  2. There's a connection between Trump's political events and wrestling shows. Both aim to entertain and provoke strong reactions from the audience.
  3. The idea of justice in wrestling often relies on breaking rules for a satisfying outcome. Similarly, Trump's approach to politics breaks norms, appealing to those who feel overlooked or humiliated.
Thinking about... 226 implied HN points 01 Nov 24
  1. Rallies at Madison Square Garden connect different historical moments and speeches, showing how certain themes persist over time. It's interesting to see how language and sentiments can echo across different eras.
  2. Some rhetoric from rallies today closely resembles that used in the past, especially concerning race and identity. This highlights ongoing divisions and fears within society.
  3. The content shared reflects deep-seated beliefs and attitudes that can be divisive and harmful. It's crucial to be aware of such narratives as they can influence public opinion and politics.
The Cosmopolitan Globalist 35 implied HN points 19 Nov 24
  1. To weaken a democracy, create distrust in leaders and institutions. If people stop believing in them, it makes it easier to control what happens.
  2. Use fear and division to rally supporters. If you can make people afraid of 'the other,' they might follow you blindly.
  3. Change the rules to stay in power. If necessary, manipulate laws and elections so that you or your party can never lose.
Who is Robert Malone 33 implied HN points 26 Nov 24
  1. Populist movements often promise big changes but usually fall short in meeting people's expectations. History shows these movements can struggle against powerful political systems.
  2. New appointments in the HHS are raising concerns among supporters who expected leaders focused on 'medical freedom.' Many feel let down as the new choices seem to favor established interests.
  3. The journey towards significant reform in politics takes time and requires patience. It’s essential to focus on long-term goals while staying true to personal values and principles.
A User's Guide to History 176 implied HN points 08 Feb 24
  1. Historical populism was driven not just by economic distress but also by status anxiety and feelings of disdain from urban elites.
  2. The alienation of different demographic groups from the Democratic party led to a shift in political affiliations.
  3. Political participation is not just about policy but also about belonging and feeling respected within a party.
Fisted by Foucault 297 implied HN points 02 Mar 24
  1. Citizens in the West are growing suspicious of liberal democracy due to a perceived disconnect between ruling elites and the people.
  2. Populism is emerging as a response to the de-nationalization of elites, reflecting a growing sentiment of dissatisfaction with current governance.
  3. The impact of migrants from the Subcontinent, particularly in the Anglosphere, is notable in politics, culture, and economics, shaping new dynamics in their adopted countries.