The hottest Public Opinion Substack posts right now

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

THB 2024 Election Special

The Honest Broker Newsletter • 569 implied HN points • 30 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. Substack is offering some engaged free subscribers a chance to try paid subscriptions at no cost, which is a great opportunity for users.
  2. The creator is exploring new ways to engage with followers through Substack Notes and other platforms amidst changes in social media.
  3. There are discussions and predictions about the upcoming U.S. election, encouraging community interaction and insights from non-U.S. subscribers as well.

Zohran Mamdani's Victory Proves What We've Been Saying All Along

OK Doomer • 188 implied HN points • 25 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. Zohran Mamdani won the Democratic primary for New York mayor, surprising many who thought he couldn't succeed. This victory shows that people might prefer real change over the usual political games.
  2. The old way of winning elections, which involves cozying up to wealthy donors and adopting conservative views, is failing. Mamdani's win proves that sticking to what voters actually want can lead to success.
  3. Mamdani's approach is refreshing compared to previous leaders who were often corrupt and pushed harmful policies. His victory signals a hope for more honest and progressive leadership.

New Zealand’s Ministry of Transport urges its staff to go vegan (no, not really).

A B’Old Woman • 319 implied HN points • 25 Sep 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. New Zealand's Ministry of Transport didn't actually ask its staff to go vegan; the title was misleading. It's important to check the facts before jumping to conclusions.
  2. The Ministry is criticized for promoting gender ideology and paying an outside group to influence its employees. This raises questions about the use of taxpayer money.
  3. Some people feel that pushing certain beliefs in the workplace blurs the lines between personal beliefs and professional duties. It can be hard to accept when facts seem to be ignored.

Ready For More Media Gaslighting?

Unmasked • 41 implied HN points • 28 Nov 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. Media often changes its criticism based on who is in power, showing bias. For example, they overlooked Biden's age-related issues but are quick to highlight them for Trump.
  2. There seems to be a pattern of dishonesty or 'gaslighting' from media outlets regarding political figures. They might downplay serious issues for one party while exaggerating them for another.
  3. The initial response to the COVID-19 pandemic involved misleading information that impacted public health decisions. This miscommunication reflects how governments and media sometimes exaggerate or downplay issues to control narratives.
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Trump is still lying about crime

The Watch • 557 implied HN points • 04 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. Crime rates in America are mostly falling, but Trump claims they are rising to scare voters. This doesn't match with the actual data showing crime is stable or decreasing.
  2. Trump uses crime as a tool for political gain, which includes spreading fear about threats like migrant crime and gang violence. This strategy helps him justify strict policies against certain groups.
  3. Despite the evidence showing crime is low, Trump's rhetoric has convinced many people that crime is a huge problem. This focus on crime affects public opinion and can shape harmful policies.

Why Doesn't Matt Taibbi Want to Talk About Gaza?

KERFUFFLE • 213 implied HN points • 21 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. Matt Taibbi used to write confidently about the Israel-Palestine conflict, but now he avoids discussing it. It’s unclear why his stance on the topic has changed over the years.
  2. The ongoing violence and issues in the region remain serious, with the situation described as complicated but rooted in historical conflicts.
  3. People can learn from various sources, even if the source isn’t an expert, suggesting that sharing knowledge might be valuable regardless of one’s background.

I See a Way for Democrats to Fumble Away Their Sudden Advantage on Immigration

I Might Be Wrong • 10 implied HN points • 28 Jan 26
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. Many voters are repelled by violent, masked immigration enforcement, though a sizable minority still supports extreme measures no matter what.
  2. Democrats currently have a real opening to offer a moderate, humane alternative and are using leverage over DHS funding to push concrete reforms like banning masked agents and requiring independent investigations of officer-involved shootings.
  3. That advantage could be squandered if Democrats cave to absolutist or incoherent positions from their left flank (e.g., calls to abolish agencies or promise unconditional amnesty), leaving their long-term stance unclear.

The Epstein humiliation

Michael Tracey • 162 implied HN points • 11 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. The Epstein Files myth has been used by politicians to gain public support, tricking people into believing that important secrets would be revealed if they vote a certain way.
  2. Many high-profile accusations against Epstein were based on claims from Virginia Guiffre, who later admitted to fabricating some of her accusations, which raises questions about the reliability of the whole narrative.
  3. The obsession with Epstein has created a lot of financial gain for some accusers through settlements, but it's also led to erosion of civil liberties and due process for those wrongly accused.

Top Links 599 Growing and shrinking counties. Low electricity prices matter. Starmer's epistemic issue. Why America's federal firearms bureau runs on paper.

Chartbook • 429 implied HN points • 26 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. Some counties are growing while others are shrinking. This can impact local economies and the job market.
  2. Low electricity prices can be very important for businesses and residents. They can make a big difference in a region's overall financial health.
  3. There's an issue with how the federal firearms bureau in America operates, as it relies on paper rather than modern systems. This could affect efficiency and transparency.

Is Donald Trump Losing His Mojo?

Slack Tide by Matt Labash • 210 implied HN points • 30 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. People are noticing small wins lately since big achievements are hard to come by. It shows that sometimes you have to celebrate the little things.
  2. Trump is being linked to tacos in a funny way due to his trade decisions. This light-hearted connection has sparked some positive feelings about him.
  3. Many feel weary of bad trade ideas, fearing more economic strain. People want to avoid paying higher prices for things because of poor decisions.

Is It Cool to Be Right-Wing Now?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 375 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. There seems to be new interest in right-wing beliefs, especially among younger people. This has sparked a lot of conversations online.
  2. A recent magazine cover featuring young Trump supporters has caused a lot of debate. People are discussing what it means for the future of politics.
  3. There's a question about whether conservatives should engage with reporters who don’t support their views. This is making people think about how to communicate across different beliefs.

Explaining in Five Paragraphs the Scam Donald Trump Just Pulled on 150 Million American TikTok Users

Proof • 378 implied HN points • 19 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. Donald Trump temporarily shut down TikTok in the U.S. for 14 hours, creating drama before claiming to 'save' it. This left 150 million users feeling anxious about the app's future.
  2. The situation seemed like a political stunt where Trump might be trying to gain support by making users grateful for TikTok's return, despite him having a history of wanting it banned.
  3. The uncertainty around TikTok's status now makes many users wonder if it will actually stay available or if more political games will continue to affect their access.

On guns and gods

Men Yell at Me • 411 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. Many people at church and gun shows express feelings of fear and anger but don't always talk about the violence happening around them. They seem to ignore serious issues like the insurrection and its consequences.
  2. Church gatherings often focus on personal blessings rather than addressing real-world problems, including the violence that some community members justify or downplay.
  3. There’s a deep silence among certain groups in faith communities about social issues, which often leaves marginalized voices unheard. The lack of discussion can be as harmful as the violent actions themselves.

Against Polling

Unpopular Front • 114 implied HN points • 06 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. Polling can be misleading and often doesn't reflect the true feelings of people. People may give a simple answer without understanding the full impact of the questions.
  2. Successful politicians connect with people through storytelling and imagery rather than just data. Using emotional appeal can lead to more authentic connections.
  3. Relying too heavily on polling can make politicians forget that public opinions are complex and change over time. Good leaders need to understand these changes and inspire their audience.

Here, Kitty!

Slack Tide by Matt Labash • 147 implied HN points • 15 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. There's a lot of drama happening among MAGA supporters, especially regarding conspiracy theories and scandals involving their leaders. It's like a catfight over who can believe the wildest stories.
  2. Some MAGA followers are frustrated by claims that there isn't a list of Epstein's clients, feeling it's a major betrayal of their beliefs. It's like they're being told to ignore big stories they think should matter.
  3. Amidst all the scandals, there's a sense that distractions will keep coming, and supporters are expected to just go along with it. It's like a never-ending cycle of controversy that they can't escape.

Comparing Zohran to H*tler Is Why Americans Hate the Media

JoeWrote • 158 implied HN points • 02 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. Media often misrepresents statements and actions of political figures to stir controversy. This can lead to a misunderstanding of their true intentions.
  2. Accusations of severe antisemitism against individuals can be exaggerated and detrimental, especially when they do not align with actual remarks or actions.
  3. Public perception is shifting, and many are becoming skeptical of mainstream media's narratives and the way they frame political discussions.

We Have It!

News Items • 137 implied HN points • 05 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. An AI in a wargame simulation chose to launch nuclear attacks citing 'We have it! Let's use it' and 'I just want to have peace in the world.'
  2. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell indicated that Americans might have to wait longer for interest rate cuts as officials seek more economic data.
  3. NBC News poll shows that more people think Joe Biden would have the necessary mental and physical health to be president compared to Donald Trump.

Here's Why Refugee Policy Cannot Be an "Open Borders" Free-For-All

THE FREEDOM BLOG • 275 implied HN points • 28 May 23
🌍 World Politics Public Opinion
  1. Citizens should be allowed to raise questions about immigration policies without being dismissed as 'right-wing.'
  2. Countries need to consider the implications of accepting refugees on their own citizens' safety and access to public services.
  3. A thoughtless open borders policy may not benefit migrants or citizens, and it's the government's responsibility to manage such a crisis.

November 29, 2025

Letters from an American • 33 implied HN points • 30 Nov 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. Allegations that the Defense Secretary ordered Special Operations to kill survivors of a strike have prompted promises of vigorous congressional oversight. Former JAGs say issuing or carrying out such orders would amount to war crimes and should be prosecuted.
  2. The president’s approval has fallen sharply and public support for aggressive actions like attacking Venezuela is weak. Polls also show the MAGA movement is fracturing, with many 2024 Trump voters distancing themselves from the label.
  3. Republican officials and institutions are increasingly pushing back against the White House, with members declining reelection, resisting pressure on redistricting, and governors from both parties opposing administration policies like offshore drilling. Businesses and some lawmakers are distancing themselves out of legal and reputational concerns.

Trump’s Very Good, Very Bad Week on Ukraine

Nonzero Newsletter • 316 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. The week had both good and bad moments regarding Ukraine. The good news was that discussions began to find peace between Ukraine and Russia.
  2. On the negative side, Trump made harsh comments about Ukraine's president and pressured Ukraine for valuable resources, which could harm international relations.
  3. Overall, while there's a push for peace, Trump's approach may undermine the trust and legality needed in such negotiations.

NZ women, a chance to speak anonymously on air about your experience of encountering a man in your space.

A B’Old Woman • 279 implied HN points • 17 Aug 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. Women in New Zealand are given a chance to share their feelings about encountering men in women-only spaces anonymously on air. This opportunity allows women to express their experiences without fear of backlash.
  2. The National Party in NZ is hesitant to take a clear stance on the rights of women and girls regarding single-sex spaces. Despite some members expressing certain views, there seems to be a general reluctance to engage fully in discussions about gender identity.
  3. Winston Peters from the New Zealand First party openly opposes allowing men who identify as women into women’s spaces and sports. He believes this stance is crucial for protecting women's rights in these areas.

The US Has Taken Sides--Against Democracy

Phillips’s Newsletter • 317 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. Trump has shifted U.S. policy to blame Ukraine for the ongoing war with Russia. This shows a clear stance against democracy and freedom.
  2. His comments indicate that America is moving away from being a global defender of democratic values. This change has serious implications for countries that depend on U.S. support.
  3. Recognizing that this is the official U.S. government position is crucial. It reflects a broader issue within American politics, and not just Trump's individual beliefs.

How did the polls do in 2024? It’s complicated.

Silver Bulletin • 312 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. Polls in 2024 had a lower average error than in previous years, which shows improvement in their accuracy. However, most polls underestimated Republican candidates, particularly Trump.
  2. There was a consistent bias in polls, leaning towards Democrats over the past three elections. This trend is concerning as it suggests a systematic issue with polling methods.
  3. Polling accuracy in calling election winners was lower in 2024 compared to past years. Close races should be seen as uncertain, and small leads in polls don't mean much.

The 'Posie Parker' madness of New Zealand’s mainstream media in just seven days.

A B’Old Woman • 439 implied HN points • 24 Apr 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. Kellie-Jay Keen, also known as Posie Parker, received a huge amount of media attention in New Zealand, with 158 news articles about her in just one week. This shows how much focus the media can put on one individual, especially when the subject stirs controversy.
  2. There was significant violence during the 'Let Women Speak' rally in Auckland, which media coverage seemed to downplay or misrepresent. The way the media handled this issue raised questions about their professionalism and objectivity.
  3. A few journalists, like Rachel Smalley and Sean Plunket, stood out by offering a different perspective and promoting women's rights, despite facing backlash from their colleagues. Their actions highlight how challenging it can be to present alternative views in a charged media environment.

Is Bluesky Just as Bad as Twitter?

Nonzero Newsletter • 417 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. Bluesky and Twitter may not be very different when it comes to spreading outrage. Both platforms create an environment that encourages people to engage more when they're angry.
  2. Social media can intensify our natural tendencies toward tribalism and outrage. Studies show that interactions like likes and shares can teach people to express more anger over time.
  3. The challenges with social media algorithms aren't just technical; they point to deeper issues in human nature. People often share content that reinforces their beliefs, which can amplify misinformation and conflict.

Your favourite half-British president

Wrong Side of History • 441 implied HN points • 09 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. Donald Trump has a unique connection to Britain through his mother, making him the first president with a British parent in a long time. This connection could be beneficial for both countries.
  2. Trump has expressed admiration for British culture and history, which shows his sentimental side towards the UK. This could be a useful asset in building good diplomatic relations.
  3. His love for British sports, especially golf and football, highlights his connection to the culture. This shared interest could help strengthen ties between the US and the UK.

Why Trump Is Ukraine’s Best Hope for Peace

Nonzero Newsletter • 429 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. Trump might be able to end the Ukraine war based on his strong will to resolve conflicts. He sees this as a chance to improve his reputation and political legacy.
  2. Some people worry Trump could worsen the situation in Ukraine due to his past actions and cabinet choices. They think cutting off support might make Putin less likely to end the war.
  3. Even though Trump hasn't shared a clear plan for peace, he believes discussions behind closed doors are better for finding a solution. There are signs that both Ukraine and Russia might be open to his ideas.

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 Public Opinion
  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.

Fighting For Your Country

Phillips’s Newsletter • 152 implied HN points • 25 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics Public Opinion
  1. People's willingness to defend their country can be influenced by a clear understanding of threats. For example, Finland has a history of perceiving Russia as a military threat, which encourages citizens to be ready to defend.
  2. It's not just about the threats but also about having a sense of what is worth defending. In Finland, social equality and a good quality of life make many feel their country is valuable and worth protecting.
  3. To motivate citizens for national defense, leaders need to communicate both the dangers they face and the positive aspects of their country that people cherish. This balance can help increase the willingness to defend.

Everybody hates Andrew Tate

Of Boys and Men • 286 implied HN points • 01 Mar 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. Andrew Tate is widely criticized for his controversial views on gender roles, often referring to women in derogatory terms.
  2. Even conservative figures, like Ron DeSantis and Ben Shapiro, are speaking out against Tate, showing a rare unity in disapproval across the political spectrum.
  3. Despite some minor support from fringe groups, the general consensus is that most people do not want Andrew Tate in the U.S. due to his alleged criminal background.

Welcome to Vichy America

Unpopular Front • 313 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. The current state of America is compared to a Vichy regime, which is partly fascist and reflects a sense of defeat and exhaustion in democracy.
  2. This regime attracts a mix of different groups who may hide their true intentions while claiming to act in the nation's best interest.
  3. People might soon regret their support for leaders like Trump, realizing that their political choices have long-term consequences.

December 11, 2025

Letters from an American • 24 implied HN points • 12 Dec 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. Trump is pitching an affordability message but his tariff-driven policies and mixed rhetoric are raising prices and failing to convince voters, as shown by low approval on his economic leadership.
  2. Republicans in Congress refused to extend Affordable Care Act premium tax credits and remain deeply divided, risking higher costs for many Americans; extending those credits would cost about $350 billion over ten years versus over $4 trillion to extend recent tax cuts.
  3. The administration has pressured states to redraw districts and even threatened federal funding, but state-level resistance—like Indiana’s rejection of a gerrymander—plus House infighting show growing GOP instability, leading the White House to consider using surrogates to sell its message.

Weekend Listening: Should America Continue to Aid Ukraine?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 894 implied HN points • 24 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. The costs of the war between Russia and Ukraine have been extremely high, with many casualties and significant financial support from the U.S.
  2. Public opinion in America has shifted over the past two years, with a majority now opposing additional funding to support Ukraine.
  3. Debates center around the importance of America's role in Ukraine, the effectiveness of aid packages, and the state of the war in Ukraine.

Stop Making Cents?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 282 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. The cost of making a penny is greater than its value, leading to debates about whether they should continue to be produced.
  2. Some people believe that the penny has sentimental value and shouldn't be discarded just because it doesn't seem practical.
  3. The argument against the penny includes the huge losses the government faces from minting them, which may outweigh any emotional reasons to keep them.

On Elon Musk and Sleazy Optionality

The Future, Now and Then • 123 implied HN points • 11 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. Elon Musk often makes surprising proposals, leaving people unsure of his seriousness. This uncertainty can create reactions that benefit him, whether he follows through or not.
  2. His strategy, called 'sleazy optionality', allows him to test the waters without much risk. If people take him seriously, he might act; if not, he can easily back off.
  3. Musk's idea of starting an 'America Party' seems more like a way to create leverage rather than a genuine political move. It's important not to take such proposals too seriously since they often serve his interests rather than a clear political goal.

What Everyone Really Wants to Hear

OK Doomer • 121 implied HN points • 14 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. People often say they want their beliefs challenged, but when faced with hard truths, they usually react defensively. It's easier for them to cling to their own ideas than to accept a different perspective.
  2. Many individuals prioritize preserving their self-image over being open to new ideas. This tendency influences their choices in news and politics, often leading to repeated mistakes.
  3. Understanding what people want to hear is complex because it can change day by day. Effective communication means balancing honesty with the need to resonate with people's current feelings and beliefs.

the porkulous is dead

bad cattitude • 336 implied HN points • 19 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Opinion
  1. Social media changed how people discuss and analyze big bills. Instead of waiting for Congress to pass a bill without scrutiny, people can now quickly share and dissect it online.
  2. More eyes on a problem means faster and better solutions. With many people looking at a bill, issues can be spotted and addressed almost instantly, making it harder for Congress to sneak in unwanted parts.
  3. The rise of social media has empowered everyday people to hold Congress accountable. Now, representatives who engage with social media can access real-time feedback from their constituents, leading to stronger governance.