The hottest Public Policy Substack posts right now

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More trans ideology is being inserted into our children's lives by the Ministry of Education NZ

A B’Old Woman • 339 implied HN points • 28 Apr 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Education Legislation Gender Politics Public Policy Activism
  1. There's a concern that an agenda related to trans issues is being quietly pushed into schools in New Zealand. This includes appointing people who support trans ideology on school boards without public votes.
  2. A new bill is being proposed that could make it easier for non-elected advocates to join school boards, and many people in the education sector may not know about these changes.
  3. Questions are being raised about why gender and sexuality need special representation on school boards, and how this might affect the balance and influence within these boards.

Real Women NZ's first livestream

A B’Old Woman • 359 implied HN points • 12 Apr 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Gender Issues Activism Public Policy Social movements Media
  1. Real Women NZ recently launched its first weekly livestream to discuss issues affecting women, especially in relation to trans ideology. This provides a platform for women to share their experiences openly.
  2. The group was formed after a violent incident earlier this year during a women's rally in Auckland, sparking a need for more safe spaces for women to express their views.
  3. Upcoming plans include creating a YouTube channel and possibly a website to reach a wider audience, ensuring that women can connect and continue these important discussions, even if they are banned from other platforms.

It's a bit hellish for women at Hell's Gate in Rotorua, NZ.

A B’Old Woman • 399 implied HN points • 05 Mar 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Gender Issues Women's Rights Public Policy Social justice Activism
  1. A social rule used to keep men out of women's spaces created a safe environment for women. This changed when some men started claiming to be women and accessing these spaces.
  2. Some women are misled into believing that men entering women’s changing rooms are genuinely women, which makes it uncomfortable for those who truly identify as female.
  3. Rallies are planned for women to express their concerns and demand to be heard on this issue, highlighting the importance of women’s rights and spaces.

Recent Notes...

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 23 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Public Policy Political Commentary Cultural analysis Political Philosophy
  1. Understanding C.P. Snow's idea of 'The Two Cultures' can help bridge the gap between technical and humanities disciplines. People can become smarter by learning from both sides.
  2. John Ganz is pointed out as a smart and hard-working person who could benefit from this balanced approach. Learning from different fields can enhance one's thinking and decision-making.
  3. It's important to encourage others to broaden their horizons, as this can lead to personal and professional growth. Sharing knowledge across different areas is valuable for everyone's development.
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After the Ball Is Over...

God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger • 80 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Analysis Governance Parties Public Policy
  1. If Kamala Harris wins, she may struggle to pass her agenda due to a divided Congress, leading to a challenging presidency.
  2. A Trump victory could intensify political conflict, but he may not be able to maintain dictatorial power without military and judicial support.
  3. The political landscape could shift significantly depending on who wins, with growing divisions and potential generational power shifts in future elections.

The Chicoms are Coming! Quick, Close the "AI" Gap!

The Corbett Report • 16 implied HN points • 24 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics National Security International relations Cybersecurity Public Policy Military Spending
  1. There is a growing concern about the 'AI gap' between the US and China, which is becoming a new focus for national security. People are worried that if the US doesn't catch up, it could lose its edge in technology.
  2. The idea of an 'AI gap' is likened to the old 'missile gap' scare from the Cold War. Both were used to create fear and justify increased spending on military and technology.
  3. Even though the 'AI gap' talk may feel exaggerated, the real dangers of AI technology, like autonomous weapons, shouldn't be overlooked. It's important to be aware of the genuine risks while questioning the motives behind the narratives.

November 21, 2024

Letters from an American • 17 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Political appointments Political Scandals Public Policy
  1. Matt Gaetz stepped down from the attorney general race amid new allegations of misconduct involving a minor, highlighting ongoing concerns about his behavior.
  2. Trump's cabinet picks, including Pete Hegseth and Tulsi Gabbard, lack the necessary qualifications for their roles, raising fears about their ability to manage crucial government functions.
  3. There is a noticeable shift in Republican views on the economy, with some crediting Biden while others remain loyal to Trump's narratives, suggesting a divide among supporters.

An assassin for our time (PART TWO)

Unreported Truths • 52 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Crime Mental health Corporate Influence Public Policy Social Issues
  1. Luigi Mangione had several health issues but chose to target a health insurance executive, suggesting his anger was more about feelings than specific grievances.
  2. His medical problems connect to a complex area of modern medicine, where physical and mental health often blur together, making treatment difficult.
  3. There are concerns about the potential role of cannabis and psychedelics in Mangione's decline, raising questions about their safety and impact when used frequently.

Huang Qifan on deepening reforms around urban-rural integration

Pekingnology • 45 implied HN points • 22 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Reforms Urbanization Economy Public Policy
  1. Huang Qifan believes that blending urban and rural areas is crucial for China's growth. This means making sure both city and countryside develop together and share resources.
  2. He highlights that many farmers need bigger pieces of land to boost productivity. Current small farms struggle to produce enough food efficiently, which affects the entire economy.
  3. To make progress, policies must change to support farmers’ rights and income. This way, both rural and urban communities can benefit from their work and improve their living standards.

Weekly Round-up: Kissinger Speaks From the Grave

Who is Robert Malone • 16 implied HN points • 23 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Legislation Public Policy Political Commentary
  1. Kissinger's last book warns about the rise of AI and 'superhuman' beings that could take control. It's important for humanity to prepare for these changes.
  2. Anti-Christian hate crimes in Europe rose significantly, with many incidents unreported, especially in countries like France and Germany.
  3. There are growing concerns about discrimination against Christians in workplaces and public spaces, which is making people hesitant to express their beliefs.

In New York, the left and right are united in a fight against the corporate takeover of Medicare

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 419 implied HN points • 11 Jan 23
🏥 Health Politics Healthcare Reform Medicare Corporate Influence Public Policy Political Opposition
  1. People from different political sides are coming together in New York to oppose a plan to move retirees from traditional Medicare to a private insurance plan. This shows that healthcare issues can unite folks regardless of their politics.
  2. The mayor's proposal could harm retirees financially, pushing them to a private plan with higher costs and less freedom in choosing doctors. Many might not truly have a choice once they face increased costs to stay in their current Medicare plan.
  3. There's growing awareness about how private insurers are negatively affecting Medicare. More people, including those in government, are recognizing the problem and starting to speak out against it.

PREMIERE: Fair Game

Disaffected Newsletter • 339 implied HN points • 19 Mar 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Local Politics LGBTQ+ Issues Public Policy Activism Government
  1. A new resolution in Burlington, Vermont, supports the LGBTQIA+ community but has also sparked controversy and accusations against local community members.
  2. Public comments during the council meeting included serious accusations, with some residents claiming that LGBTQIA advocates are harmful to children and calling for severe actions against them.
  3. The episode will detail the intense discussions and claim threats made against individuals who oppose the resolution, highlighting a significant divide in the community.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 12.01.2025

steigan.no • 5 implied HN points • 12 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis International relations Military Affairs Public Policy Media Criticism
  1. Jemen forces attacked the USS Harry S. Truman in the Red Sea using missiles and drones, claiming it prevented an American attack on Jemen. The US has not confirmed the incident.
  2. The Arctic is becoming a key area for global conflict over resources, particularly as countries like the US, Russia, and China vie for control. This has historical roots, like past attempts by the US to buy Greenland for strategic purposes.
  3. Norway is at risk of becoming a mere supplier of resources to the EU, with plans to increase energy exports without considering local needs or effects on the environment.

A message large nonprofit hospitals should hear: "The judge will see you now…"

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 319 implied HN points • 15 Mar 23
🏥 Health Politics Healthcare system Finance Nonprofit Public Policy Accountability
  1. Many large nonprofit hospitals behave like people who often go bankrupt. They spend a lot on fancy buildings and high salaries without really understanding their finances.
  2. These hospitals sometimes close services in poorer areas while investing heavily in more affluent locations. This hurts communities that need healthcare the most.
  3. Just like how a judge talks to people who are bankrupt about their spending, hospital systems also need honest discussions about their financial habits to avoid future problems.

What is a Machine Gun?

The Apéritif • 19 implied HN points • 15 Jun 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Gun Control Supreme Court Public Policy Justice System
  1. The Supreme Court has ruled that bump stocks are not classified as machine guns, allowing them back on the streets. This decision is based on a specific interpretation of what a machine gun is according to a 1934 law.
  2. Bump stocks help a shooter fire quickly by using the rifle's recoil, but the definition of automatic firing depends on how the trigger is activated. The ruling claims that using a bump stock requires a different method than what is defined as automatic firing.
  3. The debate over bump stocks raises important questions about defining objects in law. It highlights the need to consider how items are used rather than just their physical parts, especially when it comes to safety and regulation.

November 5, 2024

Letters from an American • 17 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Voting Political parties Public Policy
  1. Today is Election Day, and people are awaiting the results with hope. It's a significant day for many, filled with anticipation.
  2. No matter the outcome of the elections, tomorrow will still come, reminding us that life continues. It's important to keep a positive outlook.
  3. Staying connected with others and sharing thoughts during this time can help manage feelings and foster community.

It's Harris's Race to Lose...

God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger • 60 implied HN points • 30 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Campaigns Public Policy Voter Behavior Political strategy
  1. It's an election where many people want change, but some voters feel stuck with the same options. They might choose to stay home instead of voting for someone they don’t feel excited about.
  2. Harris is struggling to connect with working-class voters because her campaign messages don’t resonate. They want stronger, more direct approaches that tackle economic issues more aggressively.
  3. Many people feel that democracy itself is not functioning well, making them less responsive to warnings about threats to democracy. They see billionaires as a bigger problem than political party conflicts.

Stop it.

Disaffected Newsletter • 539 implied HN points • 05 Aug 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Gender Issues Public Policy Social justice Civil Rights
  1. The idea of creating more spaces for gender nonconforming individuals is seen as unnecessary. There’s a belief that society should not have to accommodate what some may consider delusions about gender.
  2. The push for inclusivity in spaces, like bathrooms or sports teams, is criticized for being costly and emotionally draining for others. It suggests that these efforts are not true kindness but rather complicity in a harmful agenda.
  3. There’s a strong opinion that accommodating these demands is a step toward losing personal boundaries and safety. The idea is that such actions are not for genuine concern but rather a means of exerting control over societal norms.

Some Observations on Criminality and Recidivism

Something to Consider • 39 implied HN points • 04 Apr 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Criminal Justice Prison Reform Public Policy Societal Issues
  1. Prisons should focus more on rehabilitation rather than just punishment. Helping prisoners find jobs and complete education can lower the chance of reoffending.
  2. Countries like Norway, which has nicer prisons and a focus on rehabilitation, have lower crime and recidivism rates. This suggests that how we treat prisoners matters.
  3. We might need to change how we sentence people. Young offenders could get longer sentences since they might reoffend more, while older, first-time offenders could get shorter sentences for better chances of reform.

The Elusive Built-in not Bolted-on

Resilient Cyber • 239 implied HN points • 17 Apr 23
🕹 Technology Cybersecurity Software Development Risk management Public Policy Systems Design
  1. Cybersecurity should be included from the start of product design, not added later. This means making security a priority throughout the whole development process.
  2. Products should come secure by default, so users don't have to figure out how to protect themselves. Just like cars come with seatbelts, software needs built-in security features.
  3. There needs to be accountability for software security. Companies should not shift the blame to users but should instead be responsible for ensuring their products are secure and safe to use.

UnitedHealth, CVS/Aetna, Cigna pulled in close to a trillion dollars last year, mostly as drug middlemen

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 279 implied HN points • 09 Feb 23
🏥 Health Politics Pharmaceuticals Insurance Healthcare Costs Market Dynamics Public Policy
  1. Three major companies, UnitedHealth, CVS/Aetna, and Cigna, are now making most of their money from being middlemen in the prescription drug market rather than from selling health insurance. This means they control a big part of how much patients pay for their medications.
  2. In 2022, these companies earned over $492 billion from their pharmacy benefit management (PBM) services, showing that this part of their business is growing much faster than their health insurance offerings.
  3. These companies are expanding into primary care services, like buying healthcare centers, as they face slower growth in their health insurance segments. This shift suggests they are looking for new ways to make profits amid tougher competition.

China's Frankenstein

Diane Francis • 899 implied HN points • 31 May 21
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy COVID-19 International relations Government oversight
  1. There are debates about whether COVID-19 came from a lab in China or from animals. Some experts believe it was created through risky experiments in a lab rather than naturally from a wet market.
  2. China may have covered up the origins of the virus and the World Health Organization faced criticism for its investigation into the situation. Many countries want a clearer understanding of what happened.
  3. The pandemic shows the need for stricter rules and safety measures in science. There's a growing concern that dangerous experiments with viruses need better oversight to prevent future outbreaks.

Death of a Civil Servant

Taipology • 38 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Workplace Issues Mental health Government Accountability Social Issues Public Policy
  1. A civil servant in Taiwan took his own life after working long hours and experiencing pressure at work. His situation raised serious concerns about workplace bullying and mental health.
  2. The response from management was troubling, with a boss denying any bullying occurred and shouting at staff to avoid discussing the issue. This shows a lack of accountability and support for employees.
  3. The public outcry has sparked calls for reform to protect workers from abuse and create a safer work environment. It's clear that many people feel there needs to be more transparency and support in the workplace.

When Kellie-Jay Keen comes to New Zealand, we women will be looking out for each other.

A B’Old Woman • 219 implied HN points • 05 Feb 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Trans rights Women's Rights Activism Social Issues Public Policy
  1. Kellie-Jay Keen is coming to New Zealand for her 'Let Women Speak' tour, and women plan to support each other during the events. It's important to be united and look out for one another.
  2. There have been incidents of harassment from activists during similar events in other countries, which raises concerns about safety. Women, especially the elderly and disabled, need protection from intimidation.
  3. Past experiences show that activisting groups can be aggressive, making it crucial for women to be prepared and aware of each other when attending such events. Safety in numbers and awareness can help prevent harassment.

Good News

Malt Liquidity • 12 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Public Policy Political Behavior Governance Socioeconomics
  1. People want to hear good news and avoid deep, negative analysis. It helps them feel more positive about the future.
  2. Cynicism can block progress. It’s important to distinguish between viewing flaws in ideas and being bitter about them.
  3. Change can happen when people believe it's possible. Focusing on fixing things rather than just complaining makes a difference.

Let's try this again

Unreported Truths • 16 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Elections Public Policy Media Government
  1. The author mistakenly forgot to enable comments on a previous post, which caused confusion and a request for forgiveness. It's important to communicate clearly to your audience.
  2. The author shared five things they liked about Donald Trump's first week as President, indicating they found it eventful and noteworthy.
  3. There’s a mention about needing a paid subscription to join the conversation or read full posts, which suggests that some content is behind a paywall.

Art of the Next Best

Diane Francis • 499 implied HN points • 17 Jan 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Activism Bipartisanship Public Policy
  1. The recent actions by activists like Stacey Abrams show a tough moment for democracy in America. Their rejection of President Biden's speech highlights growing divides.
  2. Biden was trying to support voting rights with the Freedom to Vote Act but faced backlash. This makes it harder to reach agreements with those who oppose the bill.
  3. Criticism from both sides can block potential compromises. It's important for leaders to find common ground to move forward.

The New Zealand birth certificate will soon be just a vanity document.

A B’Old Woman • 199 implied HN points • 21 Jan 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legislation Gender Rights Human Rights Identity politics Public Policy
  1. In New Zealand, people will soon be able to buy a birth certificate online with any sex on it for just $10, making it less about actual birth details and more about personal choice.
  2. There are concerns about fraud as individuals could legally hold two different birth certificates with different sexes, which might confuse identity verification.
  3. Single-sex spaces can still be legally protected in New Zealand, even after the sex self-ID law passes, but confusion about the law may lead some services to include individuals who identify differently.

In the Shallows Of The Deep State.

Trying to Understand the World • 5 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Government Structure Public Policy Political History Political culture
  1. The idea of a 'Deep State' has become popular as people try to explain political power hidden behind the scenes. It's used to describe unseen influences that control governments and decisions.
  2. Many people find comfort in believing that chaos has some hidden plan or control, rather than accepting that the world could be disorganized and unpredictable.
  3. In Western societies, trust in political leaders is low, leading people to think there might be secret groups managing things better than visible leaders, which can help make sense of troubling events.

America Needs a Conservative Party

The Cosmopolitan Globalist • 7 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political parties Conservatism Elections Public Policy Political Leadership
  1. There is a belief that America needs a new Conservative Party because current options are not satisfactory. Many feel tired of choosing between candidates who don't align with their values.
  2. The proposed Conservative Party would focus on key principles like free enterprise, the rule of law, and rational political leadership. It's seen as essential for defending America and the world against rising challenges.
  3. To be effective, the Conservative Party should be organized as a serious political entity, not just a temporary movement. It needs to engage people nationwide and prepare for future elections.

Nyhetsbrev steigan.no 04.12.2024

steigan.no • 7 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Relations Public Policy Political Activism International Conflict Geopolitical Strategy
  1. Consumers in the UK are threatening to boycott products containing the methane inhibitor Bovaer, which is being added to cattle feed. This is in response to growing concerns about environmental impact and customer preferences.
  2. Ukrainian special units, known as 'White Wolves', are reportedly assisting extremist groups in Syria, using advanced drone technology. This highlights the complex and controversial international alliances in ongoing conflicts.
  3. Saudi Arabia is reconsidering its defense pact with the US, wanting a simpler agreement that prioritizes Palestinian statehood. This shows shifting dynamics in Middle Eastern politics and the importance of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Tune in tonight at 7.30pm NZT, to hear me talk about the 'mixed-sex' women's session at Linwood Pool, Christchurch.

A B’Old Woman • 119 implied HN points • 22 May 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Gender identity Public Policy Social Issues Local government Women's Rights
  1. There's a mixed-sex women's swimming session at Linwood Pool in Christchurch where men can join if they identify as women. It raises questions about women-only spaces.
  2. People in Invercargill recently gathered to protest against a similar policy allowing men in women's changing rooms. This shows that many are concerned about these changes.
  3. A livestream discussion is happening about these topics, highlighting different viewpoints on women's spaces and gender policies. It's a chance for people to share their thoughts and concerns.

New Zealand's Midwifery Council banishes the words 'mother' and 'woman'.

A B’Old Woman • 219 implied HN points • 12 Nov 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Gender Issues Public Policy Health Policy Social movements
  1. The New Zealand Midwifery Council has decided to stop using the words 'mother' and 'woman' in their guidelines. This change raises concerns since these terms are central to midwifery.
  2. Most people giving birth identify as women, so removing these words could make midwifery less clear and less welcoming for many parents.
  3. The council has invited public feedback on this decision, but it seems odd that they didn’t consult the women and mothers most affected by these changes beforehand.

Gussie Grips rips Scottish Parliament a new a-hole.

A B’Old Woman • 179 implied HN points • 26 Dec 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Gender Issues Public Policy Social justice Political Commentary Protests
  1. A recent change in Scottish law makes it easier for people to change their legal gender. This has raised concerns about whether it will affect single-sex spaces.
  2. Elaine Miller protested against these reforms by making a bold statement in Parliament. She used a shock tactic to draw attention to her message.
  3. The protest sparked mixed reactions online. While some supported her boldness, others found it inappropriate, showing the divide on the issue of gender and sex rights.

#MeToo Plus

Diane Francis • 399 implied HN points • 20 Jan 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Justice Social movements Legal Crime Public Policy
  1. Ghislaine Maxwell's conviction for aiding Jeffrey Epstein is a big step in the #MeToo movement.
  2. This case is important because it's the first time someone who helped a perpetrator has been held accountable in this way.
  3. It shows that the justice system is starting to recognize and charge enablers of abuse, which could change how similar cases are handled in the future.

2023 National Cybersecurity Strategy

Resilient Cyber • 159 implied HN points • 02 Mar 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Cybersecurity National Security Public Policy Government Strategy International relations
  1. The 2023 National Cybersecurity Strategy emphasizes the need for everyone in society to work together to improve cybersecurity. This means technology companies, governments, and individuals all have roles to play.
  2. Critical infrastructure, like power and communication systems, needs stronger protections from cyber threats. The strategy calls for businesses to take responsibility for securing these systems.
  3. The strategy also aims to change market forces to incentivize companies to prioritize cybersecurity in their products. This could lead to safer technology and fewer cyber risks for everyone.