The hottest Public Opinion Substack posts right now

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

How Stupid Do They Think We Are?

startupdreams • 317 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Defense Media Public Opinion Foreign Relations
  1. There are reports of drones flying over New Jersey, and Congress is concerned, but no one knows what they are. It seems surprising that such mysterious drones could evade radar and air defenses.
  2. A Congressman claimed that these drones might be launched from an Iranian 'mothership,' which seems hard to believe. It raises questions about the technology and motives behind this claim.
  3. Many people feel skeptical and frustrated by the government's explanations, suggesting this situation resembles previous misleading claims that led to unnecessary conflicts.

How 'gender' made a muppet of Nicola Sturgeon

The Glinner Update • 4402 implied HN points • 18 Feb 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics LGBTQ+ Legislation Mainstream Media Resignation Public Opinion
  1. The Scottish parliament passed a controversial Gender Recognition Reform bill despite public opposition.
  2. Instances like Isla Bryson case highlight the dangers of self-ID laws, prompting intervention from officials.
  3. The fallout led to the resignation of Nicola Sturgeon, showing the political risks of implementing poorly considered policies.

Sunday Strip: When the headlines are so Hilarious...

Who is Robert Malone • 42 implied HN points • 02 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Government Current Events Satire Public Opinion
  1. Some recent news headlines are really funny and people are questioning why we need memes when reality is so amusing.
  2. Katie Couric believes that rotating press office space could lead to more misleading news and is focused on important social issues with her new media company.
  3. The conversation around media outlets suggests that some are seen as less credible, leading to claims that they only spread fake news.

How are Trump and DOGE doing?

In My Tribe • 637 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Climate Elections Policy Government Public Opinion
  1. There's a change in mood among people, with many feeling worried about job security and the future due to political changes. More people are looking to leave the country because of these concerns.
  2. The American political system is seen as deeply divided and dysfunctional. Despite this, there are opinions that some political figures can still gain support by appealing to certain segments of the population.
  3. Some believe that government agencies are wasting taxpayer money, highlighting a disconnect between those in power and the average citizen. This leads to discussions about accountability and how taxpayer money is spent.

Your favourite half-British president

Wrong Side of History • 441 implied HN points • 09 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Leadership Elections Public Opinion Political History Diplomacy
  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.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

Trump is still lying about crime

The Watch • 557 implied HN points • 04 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Crime Policy Public Opinion Social Issues Political Rhetoric
  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.

Trump, Dumb, and Dumber

Diane Francis • 1059 implied HN points • 25 Apr 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political parties Campaigns Political Commentary Public Opinion
  1. Trump allegedly paid hush money to cover up affairs, but it didn't work. The details became public anyway.
  2. Many believe Trump shows poor judgment and impulse control, which raises doubts about his ability to lead effectively.
  3. There’s a chance he may not be the Republican nominee for the upcoming presidential election because of the ongoing issues.

BREAKING: In latest threat to German democracy, dangerous fascist Elon Musk tweets six words about Alternative für Deutschland

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 249 implied HN points • 20 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Media influence Election interference Democracy issues Public Opinion
  1. Elon Musk's tweet about a German political party has stirred a lot of controversy. Many people think his words could harm democracy in Germany.
  2. German politicians and media have reacted strongly, claiming Musk's statement is an attack on their political system. They feel that a foreign billionaire should not interfere in their elections.
  3. Some believe that if a political system is easily shaken by a simple tweet, it may not be very strong. The ongoing outrage reveals deeper tensions in German political discourse.

New Polling Data Confirms Musk Effect on Support for Alternative für Deutschland

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 149 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Polling Data Political parties Elections Public Opinion Political endorsements
  1. The Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) is gaining support, reaching 21.5% in recent polls, which is their highest in a year. This suggests they might have a stronger presence in upcoming elections.
  2. A significant number of voters, even from various parties, believe that the AfD is Germany's last hope, indicating a shift in public sentiment. This includes some surprising support from traditional voters like those in the Greens and Social Democrats.
  3. The outcome of the elections could depend on minor parties like Die Linke, as their performance can affect the overall balance of power. If they win certain districts, it would complicate things for larger parties trying to form a coalition.

Why California Took So Long To Crack Down On Crime

Michael Shellenberger • 1582 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Crime Policy Government Political Debate Social Issues 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.

leaving in a huff

bad cattitude • 327 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Discourse Social media Media Criticism Identity politics Public Opinion
  1. Some people are leaving social media platforms because they can't handle disagreements about their ideas. Instead of debating, they prefer to retreat to spaces where only their views are accepted.
  2. When someone sees their beliefs challenged, it can feel like a personal attack. This can lead to a strong reaction, making them defensive and unwilling to explore other viewpoints.
  3. The focus on consensus can lead to a false sense of security. People may feel more comfortable in like-minded groups, but this limits healthy discussions and the chance to grow through different opinions.

He Could Not Even Wait Until The Inauguration

Phillips’s Newsletter • 99 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Foreign Policy Political Analysis Public Opinion Leadership
  1. Trump's tough talk on China is seen as a facade, as he has shown favoritism towards President Xi and criticized Taiwan.
  2. He has publicly doubted Taiwan's value as an ally, arguing that they should pay for U.S. defense.
  3. Many people were misled by Trump's claims, as they did not want to believe his real stance towards China and Taiwan.

Vibe Shift

KERFUFFLE • 107 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Governance Public Opinion Political parties Civil Rights
  1. In 2024, the political climate feels surprisingly normal compared to the chaos of previous years. People are not reacting with protests or major disruptions like before.
  2. Many believed the political tensions would lead to severe unrest after the elections, but this did not happen, showing a shift in how people view these issues.
  3. The election has changed how we think about American politics, making it seem less dramatic and more stable than it used to be.

"Jimmy Carter's Jewish Problem"

Michael Tracey • 106 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Presidency Foreign Policy Diplomacy Political History Public Opinion
  1. Jimmy Carter faced backlash for his book 'Palestine: Peace Not Apartheid,' with critics accusing him of anti-Semitism without strong evidence from the book itself. Many of his statements seem more accepted today than they were in 2006.
  2. Carter's presidency was marked by efforts to achieve peace between Israel and Egypt, but many felt he didn't do enough for Palestinian self-determination during his time in office.
  3. After leaving office, Carter engaged in significant diplomatic work in the Israel-Palestine conflict, often acting as a mediator and seeking peace, which contrasted with some aspects of his presidency.

Wellesley College, Patriotism, Social Anxiety

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 1420 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy Public Opinion Patriotism Social Issues
  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.

17 Thoughts on the Election

Richard Hanania's Newsletter • 1536 implied HN points • 04 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political trends Party Dynamics 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.

What Does Trump's Second Term Mean for Black America?

Journal of Free Black Thought • 36 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policies Race relations Government Public Opinion
  1. Trump's second term may come with strong support from Republicans, making it easier for him to push his agenda. This could lead to changes that impact Black Americans, but there will likely be strong opposition from some Black leaders and organizations.
  2. His approach to policies affecting education and policing might be controversial. For example, he plans to end federal education involvement, which raises concerns about how this will affect Black students.
  3. Many of Trump's policies, like imposing tariffs, could hurt low-income communities, including Black Americans. These changes might limit job opportunities and increase living costs, making economic conditions tougher for them.

the democratic joe rogan

bad cattitude • 357 implied HN points • 09 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Election Analysis Media influence Public Opinion Identity politics
  1. The left is struggling with a lack of humor, thought diversity, and genuine connection, making it hard to attract new supporters. It often resorts to strict ideological tests that push people away.
  2. Many former left-leaning individuals feel alienated as the party has become more extreme, pushing them to seek alternatives. This shift has created frustration and led to a sense of disconnection with the mainstream.
  3. There is a desire for authenticity and genuine conversation in politics. People are tired of fake interactions and want leaders who can ask tough questions and speak honestly, rather than sticking to scripted, safe narratives.

Dispatches from the Group Chats Vol 2

Erik Torenberg's Thoughts • 169 implied HN points • 15 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Political parties Social Issues Governance Public Opinion
  1. There is a complicated relationship between OpenAI and Elon Musk, where both have valid points about control and contributions. It's messy, especially with competition in the AI field.
  2. The dockworkers hold a lot of power and influence because a strike would negatively impact everyone. Automation's slow progress complicates the situation.
  3. Concerns about inequality are rising, and this could lead to more radical ideas among young people who feel stuck and frustrated. The current system needs to be changed to help them thrive.

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 Elections Political Commentary Campaign strategies Public Opinion Media Relations
  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.

Top Links 561 Will Goldman be the Trump profiteer? Ukraine bonds bounce on talk of peace & "warrior boards".

Chartbook • 300 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Finance Public Opinion International relations
  1. Goldman Sachs is performing really well in the stock market, showing a big gain this month.
  2. There are rumors about peace talks regarding Ukraine, causing a positive shift in Ukraine bonds.
  3. The term 'warrior boards' is mentioned, suggesting an interest in military-related investments or decisions.

Our First Trump 2.0 Test (and How to Pass It)

Nonzero Newsletter • 372 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Public Opinion International relations Social Issues
  1. Many Republicans and Democrats change their views on election fairness based on whether their side wins. This shows how closely tied our beliefs are to our political outcomes.
  2. The Biden administration is still providing military aid to Israel even though they didn't meet certain requirements. This decision suggests a complex relationship between the U.S. and Israel, despite past expectations for accountability.
  3. Top AI companies are struggling to create more advanced models. There are concerns that they might be running out of high-quality training data, which could slow down progress in AI development.

Will Reform Kill the Tory Party?

Comment is Freed • 109 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political parties Elections Political Analysis Leadership Public Opinion
  1. The current political landscape shows a lack of confidence in the Tory leader, Kemi Badenoch, with people even betting on Nigel Farage as a potential Prime Minister candidate. This reflects a growing dissatisfaction within the party.
  2. Reform Party has gained attention with some wins in local elections and defections from former Tory MPs, suggesting they may become a more serious competitor against the Tories.
  3. The Tory Party is facing increased pressure and vulnerability, especially among younger voters, making it possible for another party to challenge their position as the main party on the right.

Pensioner convicted of incitement for posting negatively about migrants in the latest politically charged German speech prosecution

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 230 implied HN points • 09 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Free speech Immigration Legal issues Political critique Public Opinion
  1. A 74-year-old woman in Germany was convicted for expressing negative views about migrants on social media. Her comments were deemed incitement, leading to a hefty fine.
  2. The case highlights the tension in Germany over free speech and political criticism, especially related to migration policies. Many believe her opinions reflect common sentiments among the public.
  3. The woman's conviction could lead to financial hardship, as her monthly pension is relatively low. She could be paying off fines for many years if her sentence is not overturned.

NEW POLL SHOWS MUSK EFFECT: AfD at new high, Free Democrats in collapse, Christian Democrats and Greens too weak for a coalition

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 134 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Polls Political parties Public Opinion Election interference
  1. A recent poll shows a rise in support for the AfD party in Germany, reaching a new high. This suggests shifts in political preferences among voters.
  2. The Free Democrats are experiencing a significant drop in support, indicating trouble for that party right now.
  3. The traditional parties like the Christian Democrats and Greens may struggle to form a coalition, as their support is too low.

genghis trump

bad cattitude • 366 implied HN points • 26 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Politics Elections Governance Public Opinion Social Issues
  1. Pride and arrogance can lead to downfall, as shown by ancient Greek beliefs about nemesis. If people get too confident, they might face consequences.
  2. Many people see Trump as a force against an untrustworthy system. They believe he represents their frustration with the current state of politics.
  3. The political climate is shifting, and people are looking for change. There's a growing interest in whether new leadership can improve their situation.

NZ's trans lobby is fighting a rearguard action - by Graham Adams.

A B’Old Woman • 659 implied HN points • 01 May 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Trans issues Media Criticism Public Opinion Gender Politics
  1. The trans lobby in New Zealand is trying to push back against criticisms from reports like the Cass Report, claiming that local kids are different from those in the UK.
  2. Some journalists, like Graham Adams and Yvonne van Dongen, are courageously discussing issues related to trans ideology when many others avoid the topic.
  3. There's a growing number of people, including some health professionals, who are publicly questioning the use of puberty blockers for youth, which adds to the ongoing debate.

The Dumb Luck Of Donald Trump

The Weekly Dish • 144 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Public Opinion Foreign Policy Presidential politics
  1. Russia's economy is suffering a lot right now, which could lead to a better situation for Ukraine.
  2. There is a conversation happening about how to negotiate a more favorable deal for Ukraine during this crisis.
  3. Donald Trump's actions might be seen as fortunate for some political strategies, despite the complicated circumstances.

Friday Funnies: Promises Made -

Who is Robert Malone • 43 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Humor Political Commentary Political News Public Opinion
  1. Repetition of key phrases like 'safe and effective' can influence people's opinions. This tactic is often used in various campaigns.
  2. Rumors and juicy stories can generate buzz, but they might be overwhelming or too much information at times.
  3. Keeping promises is important in building trust and credibility, both in personal relationships and public life.

the bonfire of media (and political) vanities

bad cattitude • 320 implied HN points • 28 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political media Elections Political Campaigns Public Opinion Political Analysis
  1. Social media is changing how we view politics. People want to see candidates' real personalities rather than just scripted answers.
  2. Candidates like Kamala Harris are struggling to connect with voters because old political tactics are failing. In contrast, Trump’s casual and humorous approach is gaining attention.
  3. Voters are more interested in genuine discussions than traditional media formats. They want candidates to show their true selves and provide real answers.

White House May Have Violated Presidential Records Act By Altering Biden’s “Garbage” Remark In Transcript

Michael Shellenberger • 1123 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Political Commentary Media Public Opinion
  1. The White House may have changed Biden's words in a transcript, which could break the Presidential Records Act. It looks like they tried to soft-pedal a remark he made about Trump supporters.
  2. Biden was caught on video saying that the 'only garbage' he sees is related to Trump's supporters, despite attempts to clarify it afterward. This has led to mixed messages from the White House and media.
  3. Past Democratic leaders, like Obama and Clinton, have also made negative comments about Trump voters, indicating a pattern of disdain within the party towards those who support the opposite side.

"The Moment That Defined 2024"?

Michael Tracey • 145 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Events Elections Public Opinion Media Coverage Political Analysis
  1. Gavin Newsom defended Joe Biden's ability to control nuclear codes at age 86, highlighting concerns about the practicality of such power in old age.
  2. The attempted assassination of Trump was dramatic but may not have a big impact on politics; it feels more random than ideologically driven.
  3. Biden's withdrawal from a certain situation stands out in 2024 as a significant moment that reflects the unique challenges of today's political climate.

Netanyahu vs. the Diaspora

Diane Francis • 799 implied HN points • 04 Apr 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Public Opinion Political Activism Government Policy International relations
  1. Netanyahu's government is facing backlash from Jewish communities worldwide due to its actions in Gaza, which are leading to rising anti-Semitism and a tarnished image of Israel.
  2. The Jewish diaspora feels disconnected from the Israeli government's decisions and wants a stronger voice in how Israel is run, especially regarding policies that impact human rights and inclusivity.
  3. Many Israelis are unhappy with Netanyahu's leadership, with calls for his resignation growing, and there is a sense that if changes don’t happen soon, it could threaten the essence of Zionism itself.

The Paper Straw Thing Might Be the Dumbest Own-Goal by a Movement That Specializes in Dumb Own-Goals

I Might Be Wrong • 9 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Environmental Issues Public Opinion Activism Legislation
  1. The switch from plastic to paper straws has not been well-received by the public. Many people find paper straws frustrating and ineffective.
  2. The straw ban was seen by some as a way to raise awareness for larger environmental issues, but it often felt like a trivial focus.
  3. Having celebrities like Adrian Grenier as spokespeople for such movements can make them seem less serious or impactful to the public.

Eric Adams Doomed Himself

Political Currents by Ross Barkan • 17 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Governance Corruption Political parties Public Opinion
  1. Eric Adams avoided corruption charges after the Trump administration dropped them, but this does not improve his popularity. Many people in New York still do not like him.
  2. Adams' political future is uncertain, with slim chances of winning the next Democratic primary. He has to think about other options if he wants to stay in politics.
  3. Despite this drop in charges, Adams may still struggle since his reputation is damaged and he's unlikely to get support from major parties or donors.

In 2024: Old vs. Old and Unwell

Diane Francis • 899 implied HN points • 18 Mar 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Candidates Public Opinion Political strategy Media influence
  1. Both Biden and Trump are old, but age alone shouldn't be the main concern for voters. It's more important to look at their character and mental health.
  2. The media often focuses more on Biden's verbal slips than Trump's, even though both sometimes make mistakes. Age-related mistakes are normal and not always a sign of decline.
  3. Voters are worried about the future as both candidates face serious issues. The election shows a need for fresh competition instead of just choosing between these two older men.

Is Elon Our First True Oligarch?

Nonzero Newsletter • 361 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Power Elections Campaign Finance Public Opinion Government Regulation
  1. Elon Musk has a lot of power and influence, particularly in politics and media. His actions can affect major political campaigns and decisions.
  2. Wealth concentration in America is causing political power to be held by a few people, which worsens inequality. This is a widespread issue that goes beyond just one individual.
  3. When a single person, like Musk, can sway political outcomes significantly, it raises concerns about the shift towards oligarchy, where a small group controls much of the power.

Elon Musk is Ross Perot on Crack

Unpopular Front • 99 implied HN points • 19 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Democracy Government Political Figures Public Opinion
  1. Elon Musk's influence is compared to Ross Perot's, showing how billionaires can challenge traditional political systems. They both wanted to cut through the bureaucracy and bring change by going directly to the public.
  2. The concept of using electronic voting or plebiscites can undermine representative democracy. This idea may give the illusion of direct democracy but can also lead to manipulation by powerful individuals.
  3. Historically, plebiscites have been tools used by authoritarian leaders to control public opinion. Similar trends today could weaken democratic structures and lead to more centralized power.

In which insane German delusions about the near-certainty of a Harris presidency are dashed on the rocks of Trump's decisive victory

eugyppius: a plague chronicle • 322 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Media Political Analysis Campaigns Public Opinion
  1. Donald Trump won the election by a large margin, securing more votes and sweeping key states. This shows a significant shift in voter support compared to previous elections.
  2. Media coverage leading up to the election was heavily biased and failed to accurately predict the outcome. Many people were misled by false narratives about the competitiveness of the race.
  3. The reaction from German officials and media after the election reveals their misunderstanding of American politics. They underestimated Trump's chances and overestimated Harris's appeal.