The hottest Public Opinion Substack posts right now

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

A Note from Bari—and Our Big Thanksgiving Deal

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2712 implied HN points • 27 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Media Journalism Public Opinion Political Analysis
  1. The Free Press has grown to over 935,000 subscribers, showing strong support and trust from the audience. This growth is almost double compared to last year.
  2. They have covered significant events like the presidential election, focusing on real issues and voices from everyday Americans, which has shaped their trusted reporting.
  3. The organization is expanding its presence through documentaries, podcasts, and live events, aiming to engage with the community and enhance its media offerings.

Welcome to Vichy America

Unpopular Front • 313 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Government Elections Public Opinion Political History
  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.

Energy policy, politics, facts and narratives

Jérôme à Paris • 461 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Energy Policy Political narratives Public Opinion Corporate Influence Environmental Issues
  1. People often join groups that share their ideas, which can limit their understanding of complex topics like energy policy. It's easy to get stuck in a mindset when everyone around you thinks the same way.
  2. The energy sector is changing rapidly, leading to fear and uncertainty. Many are used to traditional energy sources and don't know how to adapt to newer options like electric vehicles, which can create hesitation.
  3. The ongoing debate about energy often reflects larger issues of fairness and efficiency. Some believe new solutions will benefit everyone, while others worry about being left behind or losing out.

Links For November 2024

Astral Codex Ten • 12664 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Political parties Public Opinion Campaigns
  1. Ancient Chinese customs included burying people with passports for the afterlife. This practice was believed to help them gain entry into the underworld.
  2. A new drug for schizophrenia is approved, showing promise for fewer side effects and better treatment for negative symptoms, but it has a high starting price.
  3. Recent studies show that teaching experience may not be as important as previously thought, as using less experienced teachers can lead to worse student performance.

Keep Calm, Carry On ... And Wait

The Weekly Dish • 180 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Analysis Public Opinion Political culture Media influence
  1. It's important to stay calm when dealing with political uncertainty. Panicking doesn't help, so taking a deep breath can be a good start.
  2. Waiting can sometimes be a strategic choice in politics. Instead of rushing to make decisions, giving things time might lead to better outcomes.
  3. Understanding the past can help us navigate current events. Reflecting on previous election cycles can give us insights into what might happen next.
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Tech’s Winners and Losers From Trump’s Election

Big Technology • 3002 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Campaigns Public Opinion Technology influence
  1. Prediction markets became popular during the 2024 election and helped forecast the winner correctly. These markets showed how people bet on political outcomes and made a mark in the election process.
  2. Elon Musk actively supported Trump through X, showing his strong influence in the tech and political landscape. His endorsement highlighted the connection between tech giants and their political preferences.
  3. Silicon Valley investors were openly backing Trump, hoping for financial gains if he won. This shows how the tech industry is intertwined with politics and how investments can be linked to election outcomes.

🗽✨ Yes, more skilled immigration is good for America

Faster, Please! • 1279 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Immigration Economic Policy Social media Political alliances 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.

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 Political News Government actions Public Opinion Campaigns Social media
  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.

Monthly Roundup #24: November 2024

Don't Worry About the Vase • 2956 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Discrimination Training Public Opinion Policy
  1. Many college students often make poor choices, like banning paid public toilets, showing they can sometimes lack maturity in decision-making.
  2. Training programs on workplace discrimination might force participants to agree with statements they find absurd, suggesting a problem with coercive speech.
  3. Discrimination can occur based on people's names, with studies showing that hard-to-pronounce names can negatively impact job prospects, showing biases in hiring.

Incessantly calling men toxic is a bad way to get their votes

The Rubesletter by Matt Ruby (of Vooza) | Sent every Tuesday • 2994 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Voting Political parties Public Opinion Media influence
  1. Calling men toxic all the time isn’t a good strategy to win their votes. It’s better to understand and address their feelings instead.
  2. Instead of only focusing on culture wars, politicians should talk about real issues that affect people's lives, like economic struggles.
  3. Men have their own challenges and need to feel valued and heard. Engaging them positively is key to gaining their support.

ATW Livestream Tonight at 8 PM ET/7 PM CT

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 1920 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Current Events Political Analysis Media Coverage Government Public Opinion
  1. There's a livestream happening tonight at 8 PM ET. It's a chance to join Matt Taibbi and Walter Kirn for some discussions.
  2. They will be talking about current stories, including one related to Hunter Biden. It sounds like there will be some intriguing topics to cover.
  3. You can watch the livestream on platforms like YouTube or Rumble. Just grab your device and tune in to catch the conversation.

The expert class is failing, and so is Biden’s presidency

Silver Bulletin • 2066 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Governance Political parties Public Opinion Media
  1. The expert class has struggled in recent years, failing to effectively manage significant events like wars, financial crises, and the pandemic. This has led to a loss of public trust in their judgment.
  2. Biden's presidency is viewed as unsuccessful, partly due to his decisions like pardoning his son. Many see this as a sign of weakness and it could give Donald Trump more confidence to act similarly without facing backlash.
  3. There is a growing connection between education and political power, with educated voters increasingly aligning with the Democratic Party. However, this has resulted in a disconnect with average voters, leading to political losses for Democrats.

The Kind Of Ceasefire Where One Side Keeps Firing

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1839 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Military conflict Government actions Public Opinion Crisis Management
  1. The current ceasefire isn't really working because one side keeps attacking while the other is expected to stop. This creates an unfair situation where only one side is following the rules.
  2. There is a disturbing trend where violence seems to be getting more brutal and creative in tactics, which raises serious moral questions about the actions taken.
  3. Criticism of Israel is often unfairly labeled as antisemitism, but many people are simply responding to the actions of the state rather than holding prejudices against Jewish people.

ATW Livestream Tonight at 8 PM ET/7 PM CT

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 2123 implied HN points • 25 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Government Elections Public Opinion Events
  1. There is a livestream event called 'America This Week' happening tonight at 8 PM ET. It's a chance to catch up on the latest news and media topics.
  2. The hosts, Matt Taibbi and Walter Kirn, plan to add some festive fun to the discussions since it's around Thanksgiving time.
  3. Viewers can watch the livestream on platforms like YouTube and Rumble, or follow updates on social media.

Who Is Authorizing Biden's Nuclear Brinkmanship While The President's Brain Is Missing?

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2337 implied HN points • 20 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Political Leadership Public Opinion
  1. The Biden administration's actions are increasing tensions with Russia at a dangerous time. This is concerning because it risks a conflict involving nuclear powers.
  2. Many Ukrainians now support peace talks to end the war with Russia. This shows that the desire for continued fighting may not reflect the views of those most affected by the conflict.
  3. People often overlook the ongoing struggles in places like Gaza until they can assign blame to a particular leader. The reality is that suffering is happening now, regardless of who is in charge.

Blinken Is Pushing For Ukrainian Teens To Die For US Hegemony

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1671 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy War Government Public Opinion Political Ethics
  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.

'You're not the boss of me'

The Crucial Years • 2252 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Climate Climate Policy Public Opinion Elections Environmental Activism Policy Analysis
  1. The rejection of climate change by influential leaders is alarming. It shows a lack of understanding of the scientific evidence that clearly indicates global warming and its disastrous effects.
  2. The fossil fuel industry is a powerful force against climate action. Many politicians are siding with their interests, making it tough to push for renewable energy solutions.
  3. We need to appeal to people's self-interest in promoting clean energy. Highlighting that solar and wind power are cheaper and more reliable can help shift public opinion towards adopting these technologies.

When The Show Is Over, The Actors Hold Hands And Take A Bow

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2426 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political parties Governance Political Rhetoric Public Opinion
  1. The political drama we see is often fake; politicians shake hands and share smiles after the show ends. It’s like a performance to keep people distracted from the real issues.
  2. Both major parties are fighting for the interests of the powerful, not for regular citizens. They may act like enemies in public, but they actually share the same goals behind the scenes.
  3. Instead of getting caught up in elections, focus on the bigger problems like war and inequality. Real change comes from looking beyond politics and understanding the true sources of power.

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

Chartbook • 1473 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Trade policy Economic strategy Tariffs 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.

ATW Livestream Tonight at 8 PM ET/7 PM CT

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 2185 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Political Commentary Media Public Opinion
  1. There will be a livestream discussing the recent presidential election and its aftermath. It's a good chance to catch up on the latest news.
  2. California is still counting its election results, with only 93% tabulated so far. This delay has led to some jokes about when they'll finish counting.
  3. Hosts Matt Taibbi and Walter Kirn will talk about high-profile figures visiting Mar-a-Lago. They might explore the significance of such visits in the current political climate.

Today In Imperial Recklessness And Insanity

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2021 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Legislation Foreign Policy Public Opinion War Crimes
  1. The International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for Israeli leaders for war crimes, but similar actions against Western officials have not occurred. This shows a lack of accountability for powerful nations.
  2. There is ongoing criticism of U.S. lawmakers for their inadequate responses to violence in Israel and their support of arms sales, even when these arms are used offensively.
  3. Recent statements from U.S. officials suggest a willingness to protect allies in conflict, raising concerns about a broader disregard for international law and human rights.

The Evil Warmongering Zionist Won (No Not That One, The Other One)

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2551 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Foreign Policy Political parties Public Opinion Governance
  1. The Democratic Party has lost control after the elections, especially in key areas like Michigan, showing that support for war policies isn't popular. Many people are unhappy with how the party handled issues related to genocide and lack of progressive values.
  2. The election results suggest that both major candidates might continue harmful foreign policies. With Trump winning, expectations for positive change are low since he has a history of siding with powerful interests that support controversial actions.
  3. The overall message is that people shouldn't expect much good to come from U.S. elections. Instead, those wanting change should keep fighting against the ongoing abuses of power, as the struggle remains the same regardless of who is in office.

Is Elon Musk Actually Evil?

Erik Examines • 179 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Leadership Media Public Opinion Political Extremism
  1. Elon Musk has been accused of mean and hurtful behavior, including mocking people with disabilities and making offensive comments online. This kind of attitude raises questions about his character.
  2. People often overlook the bad actions of powerful individuals if they have also done good things. Just because someone achieves great advancements doesn't mean they are a good person overall.
  3. True leadership involves caring for others and being present in family life, something many believe Musk fails to do despite his public image as a successful entrepreneur.

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 Elections Legislation Political Commentary Public Opinion Civil Rights
  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.

What Will Trump Do About Iran?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 681 implied HN points • 01 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Elections Public Opinion Geopolitics National Security
  1. Iran's position has changed significantly, with its chances of becoming a nuclear state reduced greatly over the past year.
  2. Groups like Hezbollah and Hamas, which once seemed strong, are now facing pressure and even agreeing to ceasefires.
  3. The new president has a chance to take action against Iran and its allies, but it's uncertain if he will seize this opportunity.

A Case for Kamala

Diane Francis • 1199 implied HN points • 25 Jul 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Candidates Policies Public Opinion Political strategy
  1. Kamala Harris is gaining popularity as the presidential nominee, recently leading in polls against Donald Trump. This suggests that many people are excited about her potential candidacy.
  2. She plans to run her campaign by putting Trump on trial in the public eye, focusing on his past actions and beliefs. This approach aims to shift the election narrative from a typical contest into a moral judgment.
  3. Harris emphasizes her legal background and frames the election as a choice between freedom for all and chaos associated with Trump. She wants voters to see the election as about more than just two candidates, but about values and justice.

The Incoming Trump Administration Is Already Filling Up With War Sluts

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2044 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Foreign Policy Political Analysis Public Opinion Political News
  1. Donald Trump's new national security advisor is Mike Waltz, who has a history of supporting aggressive military action. This indicates a continuation of a hawkish approach in foreign policy.
  2. Elise Stefanik, known for her pro-Israel stance and restriction of free speech, is set to be the U.S. ambassador to the UN. This reflects a likely alignment with previous commitment to military and political agendas.
  3. Marco Rubio is expected to be the next secretary of state, further indicating that Trump's administration may not prioritize reducing military conflicts despite supporters' hopes for a more peaceful approach.

Their Democracy

Doomberg • 7077 implied HN points • 13 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Environmental Policy Public Opinion
  1. Washington state has a very green energy mix, relying heavily on hydroelectric power, nuclear energy, and clean natural gas. This means they produce a lot of electricity without creating much pollution.
  2. Residents in Washington mostly heat their homes with electricity, and there is a push for using heat pumps instead of traditional heating methods. This shows a trend toward using more electric options for home heating.
  3. Recently, voters in Washington supported a measure to protect the use of natural gas despite the state's general lean towards environmental initiatives. This reflects a growing divide between urban and rural opinions on energy policies.

Give up the keys, grandpa

Jeff Giesea • 539 implied HN points • 11 Sep 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Debates Candidates Political Analysis Public Opinion
  1. Kamala Harris seemed more prepared and brought fresh ideas, making her stand out in the debate against Trump. She communicated well and showed she could be an effective leader.
  2. Trump’s style appeared outdated and he seemed stuck in the past, relying on old arguments that didn’t resonate as well anymore. His approach didn’t match the current political climate.
  3. The election is a chance for a new direction in leadership, and many feel it’s time for Trump to step aside for the GOP to move forward safely.

"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 Government Elections Policy Freedom of Speech 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.

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 Political Commentary International relations Media Critique
  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.

Gaza Tells Us Who We Are

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2123 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Human Rights Social justice Public Opinion Media Ethics
  1. The crimes happening in Gaza show a deep moral failure in society. Many people ignore or accept these atrocities because it’s easier than confronting uncomfortable truths.
  2. The ongoing suffering in Gaza highlights how disconnected we are from the reality of those affected. It's troubling that we can witness such horror and do nothing to stop it.
  3. Ultimately, we will have to live with the knowledge of what has happened. The true horrors of our actions and our society will stay with us long after the violence ends.

Thoughts on mainstream media

Tao Lin • 1418 implied HN points • 12 Jul 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Critique Journalism Public Opinion Political Discourse Corporate Influence
  1. Mainstream media often presents a very simple and one-sided view of the world. This can make complex issues seem less important than they really are.
  2. The content produced by corporate media can feel negative and disheartening. It tends to focus on the tragic aspects of life instead of the positive ones.
  3. Having worked in mainstream media, there is an awareness that the stories told can be limiting and don’t always empower people to see the bigger picture.

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 Media Elections Public Opinion Political Analysis Journalism
  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.

Changing Your Mind

Points And Figures • 1305 implied HN points • 07 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political parties Government Elections Public Opinion Media influence
  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.

The Ad That Radicalised Me

The Ruffian • 1511 implied HN points • 27 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legislation Ethics Healthcare Public Opinion Social Issues
  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.

Searching Under the Street Lamp

David Friedman’s Substack • 260 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political issues Public Opinion Government Policies Media Analysis Political History
  1. The public debates around political nominations often focus on personal scandals like drinking or infidelity, which distracts from more important issues like competence and policy.
  2. People tend to engage more with sensational stories rather than complex issues, making it hard for meaningful discussions to happen.
  3. Past controversies show a pattern where personal allegations overshadow qualifications, leading to decisions that might not truly reflect a candidate's ability to perform their job.

February 15, 2025

Letters from an American • 25 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Policy Regulation Elections Public Opinion
  1. After WWII, most Americans wanted more government involvement to support businesses and civil rights, but some groups pushed against this idea. They argued that helping minorities was unfair to hardworking white taxpayers.
  2. Many voters still support government programs like Social Security and education, despite claims of government waste and inefficiency. Polls show a majority believe the U.S. should spend more on these services.
  3. Recent federal job cuts, ordered by Trump and Musk, are impacting vital programs, including those that help farmers and healthcare. This could hurt many supporters, especially in Republican areas that rely on these services.