The hottest Populism Substack posts right now

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

Commentator

Castalia • 179 implied HN points • 13 Aug 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism
  1. Alexei Navalny's recent writings focus on the mistakes of past democratic reforms in Russia, especially how some liberals supported election fraud in the 1990s, which contributed to the rise of autocracy under Putin.
  2. David Brooks discusses the growing divide between populist democracy and elite technocracy, suggesting that Democrats risk becoming disconnected from regular people by relying too heavily on technocratic solutions.
  3. The recent coup in Niger reflects broader geopolitical shifts, as former colonial powers like France struggle in Africa, while Russia and China are stepping in to fill the void, leading to a complex competition for influence.

derangement syndrome as symptom of paradigm shift

bad cattitude • 212 implied HN points • 24 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism
  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.

How Closely Does the Classical Populism of the Tyrannoi Rhyme with Contemporary Populist "Demagoguery" Anyway?

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 253 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism
  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.

Links and some thoughts about early critics

The Permanent Problem • 4 implied HN points • 05 Feb 26
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism
  1. Some reviewers misread the critique as a wholesale rejection of liberal modernity, but the argument actually defends capitalism and modern progress while pointing out current dysfunctions.
  2. The book treats today’s problems as unintended consequences of mass abundance, not proof that liberal modernity was a mistake, and argues we still need economic growth and innovation to achieve widespread flourishing.
  3. There’s a growing split among centrist liberals between “brokenists,” who see serious structural problems that fuel extremism, and “anti-brokenists,” who minimize those problems, and that divide helps explain sharp disagreements among otherwise similar writers.

The Zohran Mamdani Machine

Political Currents by Ross Barkan • 13 implied HN points • 16 Dec 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism
  1. Huey Long shows how a charismatic, mid-30s populist can overthrow entrenched elites and quickly deliver massive public works, schools, hospitals, and programs for the poor. He combined mass popularity with savvy use of media, patronage, and state power to get things done.
  2. Long’s record mixes real material gains with strongman tactics — intimidation, control of the press, patronage, and alleged fraud — which is why historians warn about demagoguery even as they acknowledge his achievements.
  3. Zohran Mamdani arrives with a rare mass base and has tried a coalition-building, accommodationist approach with elites, but to realize big social-democratic reforms he may eventually need to wield both carrots and sticks while operating within the limits of mayoral and state power.
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Don’t Fight Populism — Let It Fail on Its Own

American Dreaming • 169 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism
  1. Populism has been a recurring theme in American politics, often rising during times of crisis. The electorate seems to keep returning to populism, showing a strong desire for change.
  2. Instead of fighting against populism, letting it play out might allow people to see its true effects and failures. This could help break the ongoing cycle of discontent and disillusionment with politics.
  3. If traditional institutions keep obstructing populism, it may lead to stronger support for these movements in the future. People need to see whether populism truly works or not, rather than having it stifled before it can fully unfold.

When the Clock Broke

Comment is Freed • 85 implied HN points • 09 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism
  1. The 1992 election marked a turning point in American politics, showing early signs of the divisive tactics that would become prominent in later years, especially under Trump. Candidates like Pat Buchanan and Ross Perot tapped into a combo of anti-establishment sentiment and hard-right ideas.
  2. There are intriguing connections between past political figures like Ross Perot and current players like Elon Musk, especially in how they portray themselves as outsiders while being reliant on state support. Their approach tends to overlook traditional political structures.
  3. To move forward, political leaders need to craft new solutions that resonate with the public. The focus should be on building a more inclusive political vision, rather than just responding to crises and defending the status quo.

Rallies at Madison Square Garden

Thinking about... • 226 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism
  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.

Saturday Commentary and Review #180

Fisted by Foucault • 199 implied HN points • 30 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism
  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.

"Abundance? No thanks."

Unpopular Front • 75 implied HN points • 29 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism
  1. Many voters prefer populism over the abundance agenda because they want to see a struggle against big corporations. People connect better with stories that have heroes and villains, rather than just focusing on policy details.
  2. A recent poll shows that more than half of voters are attracted to the idea of populism, emphasizing the need for compelling narratives in politics. Voters want to feel like they are part of a movement with clear challenges to overcome.
  3. The current abundance argument might come off as too optimistic and academic, lacking the emotional pull that comes with a more mythic representation of politics. This suggests that politics is more about inspiring action than just discussing rational ideas.

Why has the right become more popular among low-income voters?

Optimally Irrational • 65 implied HN points • 24 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism
  1. Low-income voters are increasingly supporting right-wing parties because they feel left-wing parties have ignored their economic concerns. Issues like globalization and immigration are really important to them.
  2. There is a growing divide in the political landscape between educated urban voters and lower-income, less educated voters. Many low-income individuals feel their views are not respected anymore in left-wing political circles.
  3. This shift is not just due to cultural factors, but also because low-income workers see right-wing populists as offering more direct responses to their economic and social grievances.

A Little Bit of Everything

Fisted by Foucault • 180 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism
  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.

Losing Alignment: Why have establishment politics become so destructive, immoderate and self-defeating?

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 154 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism
  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.

Did China Destroy Globalization?

Japan Economy Watch • 239 implied HN points • 22 Oct 22
🌍 World Politics Populism
  1. Globalization has not been destroyed, but governments in the US and Europe are facing challenges in pursuing new trade agreements due to protectionism.
  2. Blaming China for rising protectionism overlooks the main issues, such as technological advancements and the shift towards services, leading to a decline in manufacturing jobs.
  3. Importance lies in addressing the root causes of worker distress, like job loss and wage suppression, with adjustments and mechanisms to alleviate these challenges.

The End of the Cordon Sanitaire

Gideon's Substack • 124 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism
  1. When political parties distance themselves from extreme groups, they might inadvertently empower those very groups. This creates a cycle where the extremes gain more influence in politics.
  2. Political coalitions often need to include groups they disagree with to gain power. This can lead to instability because the goals and values of these groups may not align.
  3. Ignoring the need for compromise can lead to fragmentation of political parties, making it harder to achieve any unity. Realizing this is crucial for facing the current challenges in politics.

Musk's Hyper-McCarthyism

Unpopular Front • 110 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism
  1. Some believe that the actions of Musk and Trump are part of a larger plan connected to old ideological beliefs. Even if it seems chaotic, there might be a deeper reason behind their strategies.
  2. The attacks on government and its officials are seen as part of a larger goal to undermine social democratic values, similar to past political movements. This is not just about individual actions, but about changing the system itself.
  3. Musk is using social media as a way to gather support and spread his ideas, much like past leaders used their platforms. It's important for media and society to recognize this and not validate actions that have harmful intent.

We All Live on 4Chan Now

American Dreaming • 107 implied HN points • 24 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism
  1. Right-wing troll culture has become popular and is now everywhere. Many people are starting to use the same language and attitude as extreme right actors.
  2. People are more relaxed about serious issues now, sometimes even joking about things that should concern them. This makes it hard to have real discussions about important topics.
  3. It's okay to care about things and express your feelings. We shouldn't let popular trends make us act tough or indifferent about serious matters.

Wang Jisi on U.S. domestic politics in Trump’s Second Term

Pekingnology • 67 implied HN points • 16 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism
  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.

Trump vs. the Law

Comment is Freed • 106 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism
  1. Democracy in America is at risk if Trump makes permanent changes to its structure. His actions might affect how future elections and governance work.
  2. There’s a real fear of a shift toward a system similar to Hungary, where leaders gain power using media control and different election rules.
  3. Some wealthy Americans and media outlets are supporting Trump, which could make it harder for normal government functions to operate and discourage open debate.

Saturday Commentary and Review #157

Fisted by Foucault • 297 implied HN points • 02 Mar 24
🌍 World Politics Populism
  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.

The rise of low liberalism

The Path Not Taken • 551 implied HN points • 20 Mar 23
🌍 World Politics Populism
  1. Historically, liberalism was for elites but now non-elites are embracing it.
  2. Low liberalism can have contradictions and may strain liberal democracy.
  3. Low liberalism involves populist tactics and can lead to politicization of non-political spheres.

The New New Class?

Gideon's Substack • 97 implied HN points • 27 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism
  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.

The Jellyfish Tribe

The Abbey of Misrule • 411 implied HN points • 16 Mar 23
📖 Philosophy Populism
  1. Growing skepticism towards authority figures is becoming more common.
  2. Many people are losing faith in institutions and leaders in the Western world.
  3. Events like the Iraq war, the 2008 financial crisis, Brexit, Trump's presidency, and COVID-19 have contributed to a decline in trust in traditional systems.

Neoliberalism is Back!

KERFUFFLE • 57 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism
  1. Neoliberalism is making a comeback, resembling previous political patterns where promises of change ultimately benefit the elite.
  2. Past leaders like Obama and Trump had populist messages, but their actions often favored corporate interests instead of truly supporting the public.
  3. Current political moves are seen as repeating historical mistakes, with influential figures like Elon Musk drawing attention away from genuine worker empowerment.

URGENT: Donald Trump is on track to win decisively tonight

Unreported Truths • 82 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism
  1. Donald Trump is expected to win by a large margin in the upcoming election, possibly carrying all seven swing states. This suggests strong support from ordinary Americans against the political elite.
  2. He's likely to become the first Republican candidate since 2004 to win the popular vote, which shows a significant shift in voter sentiment.
  3. Trump's victory would represent a major rejection of the Democratic Party and the broader American elite, signaling a desire for change in how things are run.

Trump's Neo-Fusionism

Unpopular Front • 70 implied HN points • 29 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism
  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.

It's Jean-Marie's World, We're Just Living In It

Unpopular Front • 56 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism
  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.

A Night at the Garden

Unpopular Front • 67 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism
  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.

I Welcome Trump Supporters

Erik Examines • 44 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism
  1. It's okay to have Trump supporters follow and engage with you, even if you disagree with them. Respect can exist even amid different political views.
  2. People can change their values and opinions over time, even if they hold extremist views now. Everyone has the potential to evolve into a better version of themselves.
  3. The conflict isn't just left versus right; it's about dealing with movements that spread hate and division. It's important to call out harmful behavior while still being open to discussion.

Why is The World so Messed Up?

Erik Examines • 44 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism
  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.

Declinist Politics Part 2- A bite-sized piece

Theory Matters • 3 implied HN points • 19 Dec 25
🌍 World Politics Populism
  1. Chasing a lost imperial role has pushed Britain into bad foreign adventures and strategic mistakes, exemplified by Suez and the Iraq war.
  2. Economic and cultural shifts since the 1970s — especially Thatcherism and a muted New Labour — left Britain with stagnant growth, social strains, and a political appetite for fantasy remedies like Brexit.
  3. British politics is now fractured with low trust, chaotic budgets, and rising unemployment, and the remedy called for is steady, technocratic policymaking and listening to experts rather than political adventurism.

Jimmy Carter, Neoliberal; Lind Agonistes; Heterodox Economists; The Order

Unpopular Front • 32 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism
  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.

Back and to the Right: The Pendulum Swings Again

The Corbett Report • 27 implied HN points • 09 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism
  1. Populist movements and right-wing ideas are gaining traction worldwide, challenging the political status quo. It's changing how people think about politics and power.
  2. Today's younger generations are becoming more conservative and questioning the ideas that were once considered progressive. This shift is redefining what it means to be anti-establishment.
  3. Despite political changes, core issues surrounding censorship and control by powerful elites remain. There's a need to look beyond the traditional left-right political spectrum to grasp the full picture.

The rules for destroying a liberal democracy, revisited

The Cosmopolitan Globalist • 35 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism
  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.

HHS and MAHA Appointments

Who is Robert Malone • 33 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism
  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.

On Populism, the Working Class and Partisan Politics

Symbolic Capital(ism) • 19 implied HN points • 26 Sep 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism
  1. Many Americans are politically conservative symbolically but operationally progressive, lacking representation from political parties or coalitions.
  2. There is a growing appetite for populism in American politics, evidenced by the success of leaders like Trump and Sanders in recent elections.
  3. The Republican Party is facing a struggle between traditional conservatism and populism, with challenges in aligning economic policies with the desires of their base.

Democratic Hubris

The Discourses • 19 implied HN points • 01 Mar 23
🌍 World Politics Populism
  1. Democracy is often defended through the doctrine of popular sovereignty, but it can lead to hubris among Western peoples and leaders.
  2. Successful institutions balance competing interests and have effective mechanisms for realignment and stability.
  3. The shift towards unadulterated popular sovereignty in modern democracies can undermine the necessary undemocratic checks and balances that help maintain stability and prevent short-termism and populism.

USA with NPD

Daniel Pinchbeck’s Newsletter • 18 implied HN points • 09 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism
  1. There's a big divide in how people view the current political situation. Some are really scared, while others think things are going well.
  2. Many people are feeling lost and angry, especially due to changes in power and wealth. This might lead to more extreme behavior in society.
  3. The tech industry's weaknesses are becoming clearer. Some companies are out of touch and can't compete globally, which could impact their future.