The hottest Public Opinion Substack posts right now

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

The ‘Everything Is Broken’ Administration

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1242 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. The idea of 'brokenism' helps explain different perspectives on current political figures and events. It suggests that how people view leadership and change can depend on whether they see the system as broken or not.
  2. People's views on controversial figures, like Elon Musk or Tulsi Gabbard, often reflect their feelings toward the government and its effectiveness. Those who feel strongly that the system is failing may support more radical changes.
  3. The language we use to describe political beliefs plays a big role in shaping our opinions. Understanding terms like 'brokenism' can help clarify why people have such different viewpoints.

Blinken Is Pushing For Ukrainian Teens To Die For US Hegemony

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1671 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken wants Ukraine to send younger soldiers, specifically teens, to fight in the ongoing war with Russia. This is concerning because many Ukrainians want peace instead.
  2. There's a feeling that those in power treat people as pawns, ready to send youth into danger for political goals. It seems very unfair and selfish.
  3. The article discusses a divide in leftist views on different conflicts, highlighting a split between those who understand the impact of US global policies and those who follow mainstream narratives.

"America First" Means Stomping Out Free Speech In The US In Order To Help Israel

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1783 implied HN points • 17 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. There are concerns that promoting free speech can be restricted when it conflicts with supporting certain political agendas, especially regarding Israel. People feel that this limits open discussion and criticism.
  2. Some people believe that supporters of political leaders often ignore negative actions or policies, instead justifying them. This can lead to a lack of accountability, as they defend these leaders regardless of their actions.
  3. Critics point out the hypocrisy in political rhetoric, especially when leaders claim to stand for values like peace while engaging in aggressive policies. This makes people question the authenticity of these claims.

Top Links 818 Sun Block: Red State advantage eroding? Why does Israel protect the Druze and Sanssouci in Beijing.

Chartbook • 443 implied HN points • 03 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. Red states in America may be losing their advantage in cheap housing. This could affect many people's living situations and decisions.
  2. The study by Harvard and Penn researchers highlights important changes in housing markets. It suggests that what was once a benefit for red states might not last.
  3. Israel's protection of the Druze and policies in places like Beijing can prompt questions about political strategies. It's interesting to see how different countries deal with minority groups.

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

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

ChinaTalk • 474 implied HN points • 24 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. Japan's political landscape is changing quickly, especially after recent elections and the resignation of Prime Minister Ishiba. His leadership is under scrutiny, and many are calling for fresh faces in power.
  2. Public dissatisfaction is rising due to issues like inflation and corruption scandals, which has caused the ruling party, LDP, to lose the trust of voters. Many people feel the party has not improved their lives even after years in power.
  3. New political parties are emerging, like Sanseitō, which has a far-right agenda, and the Democratic Party for the People, which is trying to appeal to younger urban voters. These shifts highlight a demand for different leadership styles in Japan.

AI #99: Farewell to Biden

Don't Worry About the Vase • 1388 implied HN points • 16 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. Biden's farewell address highlighted the risks of a 'Tech-Industrial Complex' and the growing importance of AI technology. He proposed building data centers for AI on federal land and tightening regulations on chip exports to China.
  2. Language models show potential in practical applications like education and medical diagnostics, but they still fall short in areas where better integration and real-world utility are needed.
  3. Concerns about AI's risks often stem from pessimism regarding humanity's ability to manage technological advancement. It’s important to find hope in alternative paths that can lead to a better future without relying solely on AI.

Transcript - America This Week November , 2024: "The Insanity Era Dies. What's Next?"

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 1738 implied HN points • 16 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. Mainstream media is losing its audience and facing layoffs after an election loss. Many viewers are turning to conservative outlets instead.
  2. The current media environment seems to be failing as it struggles to predict election outcomes and meet audience expectations.
  3. There's a sense that the media's influence is diminishing, especially as they no longer have strong ties to the government or political figures.

How to Tell Whether Trump is Hitler

Unsafe Science • 42 implied HN points • 16 Jan 26
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. The piece centers on the question of whether Trump can be compared to Hitler and treats that as the main issue to resolve.
  2. It offers a way to judge this claim by proposing specific criteria or a method for determining if the comparison fits.
  3. The intent is to encourage using clear, evidence-based standards to answer the question rather than relying on partisan labels or rhetoric.

"Damn the Jews!"

Kevin’s Newsletter • 511 implied HN points • 01 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Public Opinion
  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.

MAGA Meltdown?

Comment is Freed • 132 implied HN points • 25 Nov 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. The president’s second term is failing on the economy and governance, with rising inflation, weaker growth, and unpopular policies that have driven approval ratings very low across many states.
  2. Young people and minority voters have swung back toward Democrats, and economic frustration helped Democrats win big statewide races, showing a clear electoral backlash.
  3. Most Republicans have tied themselves closely to the president out of fear of retribution, but growing defections and public frustration are creating dangerous faultlines in the party ahead of the midterms.

Top Links 823 Abusing Powell. Greenhushing. Global Forest Watch, Vegemite in space.

Chartbook • 400 implied HN points • 08 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. Trump is publicly criticizing Powell more than ever. This has raised concerns about the impact of such attacks on economic policies.
  2. Greenhushing is a term that describes the trend of companies avoiding strong sustainability claims to prevent backlash. It's an interesting shift in how businesses approach environmental issues.
  3. Global Forest Watch offers important information about forest health worldwide. This tool helps us understand environmental challenges better and encourages action to protect forests.

I Am a Small Part of the Reason Why the Transgender Rights Movement Went Flying off the Rails

I Might Be Wrong • 12 implied HN points • 20 Feb 26
🎭️ Culture Public Opinion
  1. Public support for transgender rights — especially allowing people to use bathrooms that match their gender — has dropped sharply in recent years, showing a clear backlash.
  2. Messaging and tone from media and activists matter a lot; mockery, threats, or poorly judged rhetoric can age badly and push people away.
  3. Small choices in how the movement is presented can have big, lasting effects, so honest reflection and a course correction are needed to rebuild support.

Chartbook 337 The stakes in the struggle over Trump's trade strategy.

Chartbook • 1473 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. Trump's new trade strategy might lead to higher tariffs, which could raise prices for consumers. It’s planned to increase average tariffs from 2.6% to around 8% by 2026.
  2. Certain industries, especially car companies and food importers, could be hit hard by these tariffs. This could lead to increased car prices and food shortages.
  3. The success of Trump’s trade policy depends on balancing the interests of trade and public opinion. If people react negatively, it could limit how far he can go with these new tariffs.

Why California Took So Long To Crack Down On Crime

Michael Shellenberger • 1582 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. California took a long time to address crime because many believed in being more lenient with laws and focusing on empathy for offenders. This approach aimed to reduce the number of people in prison and decriminalize certain actions.
  2. Over the years, the focus shifted from protecting victims to understanding and helping those who commit crimes, which some argue led to increased lawlessness.
  3. Now, there are signs that California might finally be changing its approach to crime, moving away from past policies that created challenges for public safety.

Here’s What I Know About Jeffrey Epstein

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 463 implied HN points • 17 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. Jeffrey Epstein was a manipulative criminal who preyed on powerful people, but there is no solid evidence to prove he was a spy.
  2. Some people believe Epstein was working for a foreign government, which has become a controversial topic within certain political circles.
  3. The author emphasizes that their information about Epstein comes from thorough reporting, not just rumors or gossip.

They Wanted to Own The Libs

OK Doomer • 514 implied HN points • 04 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. MAGA supporters often act out of spite, making choices that hurt themselves just to feel superior to others. This behavior makes them miss opportunities for personal growth and betterment.
  2. Despite facing numerous struggles, MAGA supporters continue to blame others for their problems instead of recognizing the impact of their own choices. This consistent self-pity does not lead to meaningful change.
  3. The desire to 'own the libs' can blind MAGA supporters to their own interests, making them support policies that ultimately hurt themselves while trying to hurt their perceived enemies.

Are we entering a Conservative Golden Age?

Silver Bulletin • 1202 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. A Conservative Golden Age might be emerging, as recent policies and leadership are leaning strongly to the right. This could mean significant changes in areas like immigration and social rights.
  2. Public opinion often reacts against a government seen as too conservative or too liberal. If Trump’s policies are perceived as overreaching, it may lead to a shift back to more liberal governance in future elections.
  3. Historically, American politics swings between conservative and liberal eras, influenced by major crises. This suggests uncertainty about whether we're starting a new conservative era or if the current situation is temporary.

The Ad That Radicalised Me

The Ruffian • 1511 implied HN points • 27 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. The debate around assisted dying brings up strong feelings. Some people see the law as a way to help those who are suffering, while others worry it could hurt vulnerable people.
  2. Critics argue that individual choice shouldn't come before community values. They believe allowing assisted dying could lead to a slippery slope where life is devalued.
  3. It's important to talk honestly about the trade-offs involved. Opposing the bill means accepting that some people will continue to suffer, which is a tough reality to face.

A Plane Crashed in India—and Everyone Blamed Boeing, But It’s Not So Simple

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 565 implied HN points • 15 Jun 25
📰 News Public Opinion
  1. The Air India crash involved many tragic factors, such as technical issues and possibly pilot error. It highlights how complex aviation accidents can be.
  2. There was a rush to blame Boeing for the crash, even though the reasons might be more complicated. It's important to consider all factors before assigning blame.
  3. Public perception often leans towards blaming manufacturers like Boeing in aviation incidents, showcasing the challenges companies face in managing their reputations.

Why Biden failed

Silver Bulletin • 1209 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. Biden faced huge challenges from the pandemic, his age, and a divided Democratic Party. These factors made it hard for him to keep his promises to the voters.
  2. His approach to tackling multiple crises at once hurt his effectiveness. Instead of focusing on solving one problem, he tried to handle everything, which didn't work out well.
  3. Despite being popular when he started, Biden's approval ratings dropped as various issues like inflation and crime grew. His age also became a concern for many voters.

A Law Could Give Noncitizens in NYC the Vote. Not All Immigrants Support It.

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1057 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. There is a proposal in New York City to allow noncitizens to vote, which has sparked a lot of debate. Some people find the idea strange or wrong, while others think it's a matter of human rights.
  2. Not all immigrants agree with the idea of voting rights for noncitizens. This shows that the immigrant community has different opinions on political participation.
  3. The discussion around this law highlights a bigger conversation about who gets to vote in America and what that means for democracy. It raises questions about representation and rights.

Kamala Harris’ Hitler-Focused Closing Argument Is A Shameful Stain On Her Party

Michael Shellenberger • 1598 implied HN points • 25 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. Kamala Harris made a strong statement accusing Trump of wanting military leaders like those from Hitler's time. This claim is meant to show concerns about Trump's leadership style.
  2. The idea that Trump admires dictators is a central argument in Harris' campaign. She uses this to warn voters about the dangers of his presidency.
  3. Critics argue that Harris' focus on Hitler to make her point could backfire. Many feel it distracts from broader issues and may not be the strongest way to motivate voters.

🗽✨ Yes, more skilled immigration is good for America

Faster, Please! • 1279 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. Skilled immigration is important for America's growth and economy. It helps bring talented people who can contribute to various sectors.
  2. There is a debate about immigration policies that should focus on the economic benefits of allowing skilled workers from different countries.
  3. Understanding the basics of economics is vital in discussions about immigration, as it helps people realize how it can positively impact society.

Ukrainians And Americans Are Done With This War, But It Keeps Escalating Anyway

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1420 implied HN points • 28 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. Many people in Ukraine and the U.S. want the war to end, but it continues to escalate. It's frustrating that instead of working toward peace, governments push for more conflict.
  2. The idea of protecting democracy through war seems hollow when the focus is on sending young people to fight instead of finding solutions.
  3. Independent media can often get caught up in mainstream narratives, leading some to lose sight of their original purpose. Authentic voices are important for meaningful discussions.

Transcript - America This Week, December 06, 2024: "The Immaculate Pardon"

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 1368 implied HN points • 07 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. Pardons are a hot topic right now, especially after Joe Biden pardoned his son. Many people are questioning the fairness and implications of such pardons.
  2. There's a feeling that some media figures are only now criticizing the Democrats after being quiet for years. This shift feels a bit like they’re deserting a sinking ship.
  3. Jon Stewart and others who criticize the current political landscape might not have faced the same backlash that others, like Taibbi and Kirn, experienced. It raises questions about their credibility in the current discourse.

sunday solutionpool

bad cattitude • 92 implied HN points • 30 Nov 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. Many people think global issues are really complex, but they often aren't as hard as they seem.
  2. It's easy to get overwhelmed by problems but breaking them down can make them manageable.
  3. Finding simple solutions can be more effective than complicating things further.

Beware the Internet Mob—on USAID and Everything Else

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1029 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. Rumors spread quickly on social media, often without checking the facts first. It's important to be cautious about what we believe online.
  2. A recent claim about a scandal involving USAID and a news organization turned out to be misleading or false. Not everything viral is true.
  3. People can easily get swept up by popular opinions online, even when those opinions are based on incorrect information. Always look for reliable sources.

New York’s Vigil for That Terrorist—What’s His Name?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 969 implied HN points • 24 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. A vigil was held in New York for Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, who was killed recently. Many attendees did not know much about him.
  2. The event included flowers, flags, and candles, with a suggestion for people to wear masks. It highlighted a lack of understanding about who Nasrallah was.
  3. This gathering was organized by college groups supporting Palestine, showcasing their connection to current events in the region.

Will Celebrities Ever Realize That They're Not Helping?

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

Why are the "Epstein Survivors" refusing to answer questions?

Michael Tracey • 127 implied HN points • 20 Nov 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. The Epstein survivors' press conference had a no-question policy to protect their stories. This decision raised questions about transparency when the survivors are engaging in political advocacy.
  2. Many people are confused about the survivors' claims and their actual experiences. Some, like Annie Farmer, have faced legal challenges where their status as survivors was questioned, leading to skepticism about their narratives.
  3. There seems to be a lack of accountability regarding the claims made by survivors. Politicians and activists are expressing strong views without clear evidence, making it harder to discern the truth behind the Epstein case.

US Political Violence in Context

Unmoderated Insights • 39 implied HN points • 05 Aug 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. Political violence in the US has been increasing, especially since 2020. It is reported to be at the highest levels since the early 1900s.
  2. Social media seems to play a role in this rise of political violence. More people are using it to organize violence than before, especially since 2021.
  3. The US has seen a big shift in attitudes, with more adults supporting the use of violence for political goals. This shift is concerning and reflects growing polarization.

17 Thoughts on the Election

Richard Hanania's Newsletter • 1536 implied HN points • 04 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. Trump has a unique appeal that other Republicans struggle to replicate. His strong support shows he stands out in the party.
  2. Abortion might be a key issue in the election, especially for women voters. Depending on the outcome, it could change how politics handles abortion going forward.
  3. Trump may redirect blame for abortion issues to pro-life supporters if things don't go well for him, which might shift their influence in the GOP.

Israel, Ukraine Support

Diane Francis • 759 implied HN points • 30 Oct 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. Support for Ukraine is in danger as the focus shifts to Israel, but many Americans and Europeans still want to help Ukraine fight against Russia.
  2. Ukraine faces serious military challenges and needs continued support, especially with winter approaching and ongoing attacks on its cities.
  3. There's a worry that U.S. political issues could hurt aid for Ukraine, making it crucial for leaders to prioritize security and act decisively.

The part of my quote Piers Morgan doesn't want you to see

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 1313 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. Media often simplifies and twists comments to create drama. This can lead to misunderstandings about what people really mean.
  2. People may feel joy or relief about systemic issues being highlighted, not about individual tragedies. It's important to focus on the bigger picture.
  3. The public should question the media's motives and not just react to headlines. It's crucial to think critically about narratives pushed by powerful figures.

Changing Your Mind

Points And Figures • 1305 implied HN points • 07 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. People often want to believe that leaders and institutions have their best interests at heart. This trust can be shaken when they see questionable behavior from those in charge.
  2. Changing your mind can happen when you look closely at the facts and data. It's important to weigh different perspectives, even if you initially disagree.
  3. A significant portion of the population wants to stay out of political conflicts and just live their lives. They may need to be motivated to take a stand when they see that their interests are potentially at risk.

Is Epstein the new Russiagate?

Silver Bulletin • 375 implied HN points • 29 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. Many political insiders are very focused on the Epstein story, but it hasn't really caught the attention of most people in the public. They might still be more worried about everyday issues like the economy.
  2. Trump's favorability hasn't dropped significantly among Republicans, even with all the news about Epstein. In fact, his support actually went up slightly during this time.
  3. Even with lots of media coverage about Epstein, it's not clear that it's having a big impact on Trump's political standing. Some suggest that too much focus on this story might overshadow more pressing issues.

Wellesley College, Patriotism, Social Anxiety

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

Donald Trump and The End of Power

The Ruffian • 473 implied HN points • 28 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. Trump's ability to exert real power is limited by his popularity, which is lower than that of past leaders. To maintain authority, a leader needs public support.
  2. In today's political environment, it's harder for leaders to push through changes because of fragmented party loyalty and increased public dissent. Many people focus more on opposing change than supporting it.
  3. The general trend has shifted towards the end of effective power, especially in democracies. Leaders face more challenges in making impactful decisions due to weakened institutions and lack of public trust.