The hottest Public Opinion Substack posts right now

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

The good news is that the market thinks Trump is full of shit

Alex's Personal Blog • 197 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Voting Political trends Public Opinion
  1. There has been a noticeable shift in voting patterns, with Trump gaining support from younger and more diverse voters compared to previous elections.
  2. The stock market shows optimism for business growth under a Trump presidency, particularly in finance and tech, but there are concerns about his potential policies on tariffs and immigration.
  3. Many people fear negative impacts on social issues, international relations, and climate policy with Trump back in office, signaling uncertain times ahead.

Things Can Always Get Worse

OK Doomer • 169 implied HN points • 13 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Policy Health Public Opinion Society
  1. Things can always get worse, even when it feels like they can't. There is often a deeper problem beneath the surface.
  2. Political actions and public opinions can often lead to more confusion and issues, especially when important health topics are mishandled.
  3. There is a concerning trend where misinformation and extreme ideas are gaining traction, which can create panic and conflict on important health matters.

Zombie Traffic Light: The German government teeters once again on the brink of collapse, but in truth it is already dead

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 205 implied HN points • 02 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Governance Political parties Public Opinion Policy Reform
  1. The German government, known as the 'traffic light' coalition, is struggling and facing widespread disapproval from the public. Many people feel that the government has no clear plans to address current crises.
  2. The leading parties in the coalition—the SPD, FDP, and Greens—are failing to connect with their supporters and are engaged in internal conflicts that are worsening their situation.
  3. There is a strong possibility of new elections happening soon, as the coalition's issues might lead to a significant shift in power away from the current government.

Zelensky left stranded; Bill Clinton's bigotry

Aaron Mate • 208 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Campaigns Foreign Policy Political Commentary Government Relations Public Opinion
  1. Zelensky is upset because his request for Tomahawk missiles was leaked by the White House. This has made him feel unsupported in a tough situation.
  2. Bill Clinton is showing his support for Israel, even in the face of widespread criticism about the violence against Palestinians. This highlights his controversial stance on the matter.
  3. These events reflect ongoing tensions in international relations and how leaders respond to them, making it clear that political alliances can have serious consequences.

January 21, 2025

Letters from an American • 21 implied HN points • 22 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Political parties Public Opinion Policies
  1. Jacob Chansley, the so-called QAnon shaman, celebrated receiving a pardon from Trump for his role in the January 6 Capitol riot, reflecting how some supporters believe the system is corrupt.
  2. Trump's recent actions, like firing a top military leader and renaming geographical features, show his intent to push a specific right-wing agenda, even as these moves lack broad public support.
  3. Trump is trying to change birthright citizenship laws, which has led to multiple lawsuits against his administration, showing a strong reaction from various states and organizations.
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Politics vs Policy

Comment is Freed • 101 implied HN points • 07 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Government Public Opinion Elections Political strategy
  1. There is often a gap between expert solutions and what the public actually wants. This can create confusion and paralysis in government decisions.
  2. Policy changes in areas like taxation and climate change can be very unpopular, making it tough for leaders to make bold moves.
  3. Voters generally prefer to avoid controversial debates, which can limit the effectiveness of expert advice on important issues.

Progressive “Groups”, AI, and Diminishing Returns

From the New World • 124 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Public Opinion Legislation
  1. Progressive groups can impact political outcomes by pushing unpopular ideas, but they keep existing because they operate without accountability.
  2. Recent public opinion has shifted on AI, revealing that previous beliefs about its unlimited potential might not be true. This could change how we approach AI research in the future.
  3. Past political movements often go unpunished when public opinion changes, which is a mistake. We should remember the lessons from these issues to prevent them from happening again.

How much do we need to know?

Men Yell at Me • 244 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Events Political Figures Public Opinion Government History
  1. It's important to think about how much information we actually need to navigate our lives. Too much information can be overwhelming.
  2. There are moments in history that feel significant, and they often change the course of events. Recognizing these moments can help us understand our world better.
  3. Engagement with political figures and movements can shape society. It's crucial to be aware of who we support and the impact they have.

Liberal anguish over Trump was never going to be a sustainable electoral strategy

Michael Tracey • 176 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Voting Political strategy Public Opinion Party Politics
  1. Liberal anger toward Trump isn’t a strong enough reason for people to vote against him in elections. Many voters want to hear more about policies and solutions, not just negativity.
  2. Younger voters often see Trump as just another celebrity and are less affected by the drama that surrounds him. They’re more focused on real issues like the economy and less on political arguments.
  3. Democrats need to connect better with everyday voters rather than relying on elite political views. Many people care more about tangible issues than abstract ideas.

2025 Predictions

The Corbett Report • 28 implied HN points • 12 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Predictions Climate Policy AI Impact Public Opinion Conspiracy Theories
  1. 2025 is expected to be a major year for AI, likely bringing an increase in AI-related news and developments. It's essential to stay informed about how AI is changing the landscape around us.
  2. There is a growing shift in public opinion against the climate crisis narratives, with people realizing the realities behind climate policies and backing away from extreme measures. This indicates a potential retreat from aggressive environmental agendas.
  3. There is hope for unity among various groups who believe in conspiracy realities. People are encouraged to come together, share ideas, and work towards freedom and solution-oriented actions.

We Argue in Metaphors

In My Tribe • 622 implied HN points • 22 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Discourse Media influence Public Opinion
  1. We often use metaphors in our discussions, which can make our points unclear. It's important to recognize that metaphors can be helpful but aren't always perfectly accurate.
  2. When we disagree, it can help to focus on the implications of the metaphors we're using. If we can agree on what those implications are, we might find common ground.
  3. Differences in opinion often come from how we interpret metaphors. It's okay to have different views, but we should try to understand why the other person believes what they do.

Biden Gives Up On America

Gideon's Substack • 107 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Government Legislation Public Opinion
  1. Biden's pardon of his son Hunter shows a strong parental instinct, but it also raises questions about his priorities as a leader and the message it sends about justice.
  2. Many people feel hopeless about the political situation, thinking it's not worth trying to maintain ethical standards when the other side does not.
  3. The sense of resentment among Democrats can lead to a desire to give up on the system, which might have negative consequences for the future of the party and the country.

sunday meanpool

bad cattitude • 127 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Elections Governance Public Opinion Political Commentary
  1. It's easier to see certain things when you finally understand them. Sometimes, the truth is clear but hard to face.
  2. People often struggle to accept obvious truths about themselves. Admitting what's true can be a challenge for many.
  3. Looking at things from a different perspective can help clarify confusing situations. A fresh viewpoint can make what seems complicated feel simple.

Biden, Gavin, and Kamala

Diane Francis • 1039 implied HN points • 20 Nov 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political strategy Governance Political Figures Public Opinion
  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.

Alan Dershowitz Is Phoning in His Genocide Apologia

JoeWrote • 35 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Legal issues Public Opinion Media Criticism Cultural Discourse
  1. Alan Dershowitz wrote a book claiming that Israel is perfect and has never done anything wrong. This view is very controversial.
  2. The author found Dershowitz's arguments to be ridiculous and mostly laughed at how flawed they were.
  3. The piece encourages readers to question the narratives presented by Dershowitz and understand the complexities of the situation in Israel and Palestine.

Regrets, I have a few

Unpopular Front • 87 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Elections Public Opinion Media Criticism Democratic Party
  1. It's important to be a leader and voice your opinions instead of just following the crowd, especially when you see issues that need addressing.
  2. Believing in the current political leadership can lead to complacency, and it's crucial to remain critical and aware of the system's flaws.
  3. Having the courage to make bold predictions and criticisms, even if they go against the grain, is necessary for true progress and understanding.

Three Uncomfortable Truths About Bukele's Crackdown On Gangs

CrashOut by Ioan Grillo • 1218 implied HN points • 29 Aug 23
🌍 World Politics International Human Rights Security Public Opinion Law enforcement
  1. The crackdown on gangs in El Salvador led by President Bukele has been effective in reducing crime rates significantly.
  2. Despite criticism, Bukele's offensive is popular among the people of El Salvador due to the tangible benefits seen from the eradication of gang influence.
  3. The methods used in the crackdown, while successful, have been brutal, leading to concerns about human rights violations and the high number of individuals incarcerated.

Election Questions

David Friedman’s Substack • 143 implied HN points • 13 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Voting Candidates Political parties Public Opinion
  1. Lawfare might have affected the Democrats' performance. It raises the question of whether talking about Trump's legal troubles helped or hurt their votes.
  2. Many voters supported Trump but didn't vote for other Republicans. This suggests there might be something different happening in down-ballot races versus the presidential election.
  3. Voters seemed to back their chosen candidates more than vote against opponents. This indicates Trump's popularity among his supporters, while Harris faced more opposition.

Trump Whispering and Ukraine

Phillips’s Newsletter • 86 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Election Dynamics Foreign Policy Public Opinion Media influence
  1. People are too hopeful about Trump’s new ideas on Ukraine. It's based more on wishes than what he actually says.
  2. We should pay attention to Trump’s actual statements about Ukraine to understand his real thoughts. His words now are not much different from what he said before the election.
  3. Some recent comments from Trump on Ukraine might be more serious than people think. It's important to really look at what he means.

In the Media

From the New World • 10 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Elections Government Public Opinion Political theory
  1. Launching a new YouTube channel to share podcasts and live streams is a goal for the new year. It's a chance to connect more with the audience through video content.
  2. Proposals for AI legislation are being pushed mainly by a group that is linked to Democrats, even in Republican-led states. This could change how many industries, like education and healthcare, operate.
  3. There's a growing conversation about how government systems can work more like successful businesses. This could help political groups find better ways to serve the public and regain support.

Claim Chowder: She Did Good

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 130 implied HN points • 09 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political strategy Leadership Public Opinion Government Accountability
  1. Incumbent parties in 2024 faced tough challenges, and Kamala Harris struggled to meet expectations as part of that scenario.
  2. Public perception of Kamala Harris has not been very positive, affecting her and the Biden administration's approval ratings.
  3. Many Democrats are less enthusiastic about Harris as a candidate for the future, raising questions about her role in upcoming elections.

The story of this election is the story of women’s anger

Men Yell at Me • 462 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Women's Rights Public Opinion Political strategy Healthcare
  1. Women's anger is a big story in this election, especially about issues like abortion rights. Many women are voting based on how these issues affect their lives.
  2. Senior women who previously supported Trump are now favoring Kamala Harris due to frustration over new abortion laws. They remember the struggles before Roe v. Wade.
  3. The right to abortion is not just about healthcare; it's about women's autonomy and equality in society. This anger is pushing women to vote and demand change.

sunday memepool: taking stock

bad cattitude • 108 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Analysis Public Opinion Campaigns Government
  1. The recent elections have led to shifts in political power. This shows that people's opinions and needs can change over time.
  2. Celebrating election outcomes is important, but it's also crucial to start thinking about what comes next. The real work often begins after the celebrations are over.
  3. Staying aware of the changes and the reasons behind them can help people engage better in future political discussions and decisions. It's a good chance to reflect and plan ahead.

How to judge federal nominees: Stories about bears, sex scandals, conflict of Interest... And what about their *actual views*? what is relevant?

Vinay Prasad's Observations and Thoughts • 92 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Media influence Public Opinion
  1. When judging federal nominees, think about them compared to the likely next choice, not some ideal candidate. It’s about who is realistically in line for the job.
  2. Consider if the issues raised are criminal or if they relate to hypocrisy in their professional responsibilities. People should be held accountable for their job duties, not just personal lives.
  3. Look at their actual work and views. Those who are flexible in their opinions and bring ideas are often better than those sticking strictly to a party line.

Weekly Dose of Optimism #119

Not Boring by Packy McCormick • 113 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Public Opinion Political strategies Health Policies Social Issues
  1. The recent elections showed that direct communication and prediction markets are changing how we understand politics. Candidates are using more direct ways to connect with people, and prediction markets help us find the truth in a messy information world.
  2. New technology like underwater drones is being developed to help the environment, specifically to restore seagrass and gather important data. This kind of innovation can play a big role in caring for our oceans.
  3. Recent studies suggest that early-life nutrition affects long-term health, showing that sugar rationing in childhood can lower the risk of diseases like diabetes. It highlights how what we eat early can shape our future health.

This is not just quietly dying ........

A B’Old Woman • 639 implied HN points • 12 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legal issues Media Coverage Public Opinion Activism
  1. An older Māori woman got banned from a supermarket for wearing a t-shirt that made a strong statement about gender identity.
  2. She is now considering legal action because she believes this issue affects not just her, but women as a whole.
  3. Support is being raised to help cover her legal fees, and people can contribute through a fundraising platform.

A list of recs to get you through the anxious hell of the next 48 hours (or longer? longer??)

Both Are True • 124 implied HN points • 04 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Anxiety Media Technology Public Opinion
  1. Arc Browser lets you view two web pages side by side, which is really handy. It also has separate spaces for different logins, so you can switch between work and personal browsing easily.
  2. People are unhappy about the upcoming changes to Arc Browser, which has sparked a lot of online drama. This drama feels similar to the chaos surrounding political events, making it hard to focus.
  3. To cope with anxiety, it's helpful to find distractions like books, videos, games, and music. Engaging in these activities can help ease the stress of uncertain times, like elections.

Trudeau Resigns? Then Pisses In Canada's Face, Proroguing Parliament.

C.O.P. Central Organizing Principle. • 24 implied HN points • 07 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Leadership Economy Parliament Public Opinion Policy
  1. The Prime Minister seems to avoid difficult questions about the economy and international issues instead of addressing them directly. This gives the impression of dodging accountability.
  2. There are serious concerns regarding the state of the Canadian economy, including high storefront vacancies and the impact of US economic policies on Canada. Many small businesses are struggling, which affects consumer spending.
  3. The lack of viable leadership in Canadian parties is troubling, with calls for new leadership to unite the people and address ongoing issues. Many feel that current leaders are failing to instill public confidence.

How the New York Post Wins

Political Currents by Ross Barkan • 36 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence Political strategy Newspapers Public Opinion Elections
  1. The New York Post is a powerful newspaper in New York City, despite its conservative stance that differs from many city residents. It connects with a variety of readers by addressing local anxieties about crime, homelessness, and political issues.
  2. The Post's influence extends beyond its own stories, as local TV and radio often follow its lead. Politicians, like the previous mayor, learned that the Post can be a strong ally or a harsh critic, affecting their public image.
  3. With other local media declining, the New York Post stands out for its coverage of city events. While it's essential to read it with a critical eye, many find it necessary for understanding the pulse of the city.

The Healing Power of Ridicule

Slack Tide by Matt Labash • 195 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Satire Public Opinion Elections Governance Political Commentary
  1. Laughing at difficult situations, like politics, can be very helpful. Humor helps us cope with the stress that comes from these challenges.
  2. Everything, including tough political situations, eventually comes to an end. It's important to hold on to the belief that change is possible.
  3. Ridicule can be a powerful tool for critiquing behavior and attitudes. It can help us highlight issues in a way that's both effective and entertaining.

Trump Wins: What a Comeback

The Reactionary • 130 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Candidates Political strategy Public Opinion Legislation
  1. Trump managed to unite a diverse group of voters, including independents and working-class individuals, which helped him win key states. This shows that many people are looking for change and support candidates who speak to their needs.
  2. Kamala Harris faced challenges as a candidate, which made it hard for her to connect with voters. Her lack of charisma and unchanging policies compared to Biden may have hurt her chances of winning.
  3. There are expectations for Trump's second term to be smoother without the chaos from his first term. This could lead to new legislation to improve the economy and other significant changes.

An Open Letter To Open-Minded Harris Voters

Zero HP Lovecraft • 120 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Voting Political Bias Campaigns Public Opinion
  1. Polling can be biased and often underestimate supporters of certain candidates. Many polls showed high Democratic enthusiasm that didn't match the voting results.
  2. There is a belief that media and academic views can be heavily influenced by biases, especially when they align with certain political perspectives. This can affect how information is presented to the public.
  3. Some people feel excluded or attacked for their identity in today's conversation about race and gender. This sentiment can create a divide and affect the way political campaigns relate to different groups.

The Media Is Furious That Dr. Jay Bhattacharya Will Be Head of NIH

Unmasked • 96 implied HN points • 27 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Health Policy Media Public Opinion Leadership
  1. Dr. Jay Bhattacharya has been appointed as the head of the National Institutes of Health. He is highly qualified with degrees in medicine and health policy.
  2. His appointment is seen as a challenge to previous leadership at NIH, particularly to Anthony Fauci and Francis Collins, as he supports evidence-based science rather than political ideology.
  3. The media is reacting negatively to his appointment because he has publicly opposed strict COVID-19 measures like lockdowns and mask mandates.

"Damn the Jews!"

Kevin’s Newsletter • 511 implied HN points • 01 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Conflicts Public Opinion Geopolitics International relations Humanitarian Issues
  1. The Houthi movement in Yemen is popular for opposing Israeli actions in Gaza and has support across West Asia and North Africa.
  2. US public opinion is divided on Middle East policy, with many Americans favoring a ceasefire in Gaza and opposing further Middle East wars.
  3. The Houthi slogan, particularly the phrase 'a curse upon the Jews,' may pose a PR problem in the US and alternative translations are being considered.

Weekend Update #105: Vote for Harris because She is Best for the USA, not because She is Best for Ukraine (though She is Best for Ukraine)

Phillips’s Newsletter • 140 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Democracy International relations Political Analysis Public Opinion
  1. Voting for Kamala Harris is crucial because she prioritizes the interests of the USA, which also aligns with supporting Ukraine. It's about choosing a leader who stands for democracy and international law.
  2. Current U.S. aid to Ukraine has been essential, but there's a stark difference between candidates, with some wanting to cut support and others committed to helping Ukraine.
  3. The involvement of North Korean troops in Russia signals a dangerous escalation, highlighting the need for a strong response from Ukraine's allies to ensure stability in the region.

The great RFK Jr. bamboozle of 2024: a brief history

Michael Tracey • 164 implied HN points • 20 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political parties Campaigns Public Opinion Political History
  1. RFK Jr. initially launched an Independent campaign to challenge the two-party system, gaining significant public support. But he later endorsed Trump, which confused many supporters who thought he was against that very system.
  2. His withdrawal from the race and endorsement of Trump hurt the minor parties that had backed him, with some feeling they had been misled. They believed he would empower Third Parties, but his actions ended up weakening them.
  3. Despite claiming to stand against the political establishment, RFK Jr.'s actions seemed to reinforce the existing power dynamics instead. Many critics feel he used his famous name for personal gain rather than genuine political change.

No News is Good News

Soaring Twenties • 123 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media influence Public Opinion Political Discourse Journalism Ethics Information Consumption
  1. Consuming news can drain your energy and happiness. It's often filled with negativity and sensationalism that can leave you feeling stressed and confused.
  2. People often think they need news to be informed or good citizens, but this belief doesn’t really hold up. Most news doesn't significantly impact your life or help you make better decisions.
  3. Instead of following the news, focus on your local community and the things you can actually influence. True understanding comes from deeper reading and personal experiences, not from constant news updates.

WEEKLY BRIEFLY NOTED for 2024-11-02 Sa

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 115 implied HN points • 02 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Economics Public Opinion Political History
  1. Global warming is a serious threat, especially for poorer countries like those in sub-Saharan Africa that lack resources to adapt.
  2. Decarbonization efforts in the Global North have been noticeable over the past generation, helping to address climate change.
  3. Passive investing might seem easy, but it actually leads to big market shifts as people try to track indexes, which can complicate real price discovery.