The hottest Public Policy Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Education Topics

The GOP actually hates Republican voters

Sex and the State • 32 implied HN points • 22 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy
  1. The GOP is making cuts to summer and after-school programs that help boys, while giving tax breaks to the wealthy. This is hurting the very voters who support them.
  2. There’s a belief that schools are biased against boys, but that's not true; boys are actually struggling because of poverty and educational inequality.
  3. Many Republican voters may not realize that their party's actions often harm them. There's a disconnect between what they believe and what policies are actually being pursued.

When we lost our minds: Pt. 5 The Lessons Leamer Learned

Erdmann Housing Tracker • 105 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy
  1. Housing is really important to the economy. It helps predict how the economy will do and often drives changes in it.
  2. The best time to step in and control the housing market is when construction is happening a lot and above normal levels. Waiting too long can cause problems.
  3. In areas like Los Angeles, even though people think there are too many homes, the reality is that many people are affected by rising rents and low construction rates.

Untreated

KERFUFFLE • 97 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy
  1. The current state of mental health care in the U.S. struggles to address serious mental illnesses. Many people with severe issues end up homeless due to insufficient treatment options.
  2. Getting someone into a supportive psychiatric facility requires proving that they're a risk to themselves or others, which is a tough standard. This makes it hard to get help for many who desperately need it.
  3. After hospital care, many individuals are released back to the streets without proper long-term plans. This shows a systemic failure to manage mental health properly and protect the community.

Sen. Blackburn (R-TN) used the "socialism" trope. It proves she doesn't know her history about Tennessee.

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 239 implied HN points • 31 Aug 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy
  1. Senator Blackburn claims Tennesseans don't want socialism, but many benefit from government programs like the Tennessee Valley Authority. This program has provided jobs and improved living standards in Tennessee.
  2. The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), created during the New Deal, was seen as 'socialism' but has had a positive impact on the community for many years. It helped people get jobs and electricity.
  3. The history of programs like the TVA shows that what some label as 'socialism' can actually lead to progress and improve lives. It's important to consider the benefits of such programs.

A new era dawns

Unreported Truths • 85 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy
  1. Trump is back with a stronger desire to make big changes in how the government works. He seems more focused and ready to use his power differently this time.
  2. His leadership style looks to be less about compromise and more about taking decisive action, which might mean playing rough in politics.
  3. Trump wants to prioritize American citizens over outside issues, but his vision can feel darker and more intense than previous presidents like Reagan.
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Assisted Suicide

Disaffected Newsletter • 179 implied HN points • 16 Dec 22
🏥 Health Politics Public Policy
  1. Assisted suicide is a complex and emotional topic that many people face, especially those with terminal illnesses. It raises important questions about how we support those in suffering.
  2. In some places, like Canada, the approach to physician-assisted suicide is becoming more common and complicated. This shift impacts many lives and decisions.
  3. Personal experiences with assisted suicide can be profound and challenging. Sharing these stories helps us understand the real-life implications of this practice.

Reminder: Zoom Call Tonight

Nonzero Newsletter • 112 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy
  1. There's a Zoom call happening tonight at 8 PM US Eastern Time. It's for NZN members to talk about the election and what's next.
  2. The call will last for 90 minutes or until all questions are answered. It's a good chance to discuss important topics.
  3. You can join using the provided link to ask questions and share thoughts with others.

The left's open borders insanity, caught in a single email

Unreported Truths • 82 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy
  1. Some people believe there's a plan to flood the U.S. with migrants to help Democrats, but that's not supported by evidence. It looks more like a mix of mistakes and interests rather than a big conspiracy.
  2. Unchecked migration has actually pushed some working-class voters, including Black and Hispanic groups, towards Trump, which is the opposite of what some might expect.
  3. The author examines why there's such strong support for open borders, suggesting it stems from a moral panic rather than a coordinated strategy.

The United States of Anarchy

Diane Francis • 559 implied HN points • 25 Mar 21
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy
  1. Gun violence is a huge problem in the U.S., with mass shootings happening frequently and laws not changing much afterwards. Many find it easier to buy guns than to vote or drink beer.
  2. Many mass shooters are men who have a deep attachment to guns, often stemming from feelings of insecurity about their masculinity and societal role. This cultural issue is tied to their identity and coping mechanisms.
  3. Other countries have successfully reduced gun violence through stricter regulations, but in the U.S., debates over gun rights often lead to shouting matches without real solutions being implemented.

Open Thread #34 - This One's On You

Fisted by Foucault • 88 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy
  1. People are making predictions about major world events for 2025, like the situation in Ukraine and the conflict in Syria. It's interesting to hear different opinions on what's coming up.
  2. There's also a focus on US politics and issues like immigration and the influence of 'wokeness.' These topics can shape the political landscape significantly.
  3. In personal news, people are reflecting on their New Year's resolutions and what entertainment they're looking forward to. It shows how individuals set goals and enjoy life as the new year begins.

America's Downfall

Diane Francis • 479 implied HN points • 01 Jul 21
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy
  1. Many old buildings in Florida are in bad shape and might be abandoned. This is because owners often don’t spend money on repairs or safety measures.
  2. The lack of building regulations in Florida and across America can lead to dangerous situations. Regular inspections and maintenance are important to keep people safe.
  3. Deregulation in various industries has caused serious problems in America, like financial crises and safety issues. People need to understand that regulations can help protect them.

August 11, 2025

Letters from an American • 25 implied HN points • 12 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy
  1. Trump announced he is taking control of the D.C. police and deploying federal agents to address crime, despite crime rates already being low. This action raises concerns about government overreach and the use of troops against civilians.
  2. Many believe Trump is consolidating power similar to authoritarian regimes, using crime as a pretext while diverting attention from other issues. Strategies employed include involving the military in law enforcement and creating a perception of fear.
  3. Trump's erratic behavior and cognitive health are increasingly apparent, raising doubts about his leadership. His administration appears to be advancing a controversial agenda, seen as a potential threat to civil liberties and democratic norms.

New Q&A Series, No. 1: Answering Some Extremely Easy Questions Asked By the Worst-Informed and Most Disingenuous Far-Right Billionaires on Earth

Proof • 84 implied HN points • 04 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy
  1. Just because someone has many arrests doesn't mean they committed a lot of crimes. A single incident can lead to multiple arrests for different charges.
  2. Most criminal cases don't involve prison time; people often face fines, probation, or other penalties instead of jail. Many arrests are for minor offenses.
  3. It's important for wealthy people to understand the real effects of tough criminal laws. Harsh policies can hurt families and increase crime in communities.

I'm going to run for president

Basta’s Notes • 81 implied HN points • 19 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy
  1. Consumer goods packaging is often really hard to open, and people are tired of it. Many everyday items come with frustrating seals and tabs that don't work properly.
  2. The packaging issue seems to come from companies not caring about their customers. Some brands even do a great job, showing that it is possible to make easy-to-open products.
  3. Basta's campaign idea focuses on fixing packaging to make it user-friendly. It taps into a common frustration shared by many people, making it a relatable issue.

OSD 308: Instagram matters more than gun laws do

Open Source Defense • 80 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy
  1. Social media has a huge impact on discussing gun rights. If people can freely talk about guns online, they can challenge and change laws more effectively.
  2. Current rules on social media limit conversations about guns, which can make laws tougher to fight against. Better communication online can help spread good ideas and innovations about gun rights.
  3. Gun laws are important, but the culture around guns and the ability to talk about them online is even more powerful. A strong gun culture can prevent restrictive laws from being made in the first place.

Labour and the challenge of coherence

Comment is Freed • 81 implied HN points • 12 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy
  1. The Labour party is struggling to make progress in government, facing frustrations from both members and leadership. This has been made tougher by external challenges like fiscal issues and global tensions.
  2. Keir Starmer, the leader, prefers practical decision-making over deep philosophical discussions, but this can hinder a clear direction for governance. Without guiding principles, it's hard for his team to make confident decisions.
  3. There's a lot of activity within the government, but it lacks a coherent strategy. Different departments may have conflicting agendas, which can lead to confusion and ineffective use of resources.

Briefly Noted

Unpopular Front • 35 implied HN points • 12 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy
  1. Trump's idea of rebuilding America mixes old protectionist ideas with modern technology. This mix shows a deep desire to return to a past way of doing things while ignoring the advancements of the Enlightenment.
  2. Trump represents both wealth and the chaos of financial failure. His life story reflects a bigger story about America, blending success with economic downturns.
  3. To understand Trump and his influence, it's important to look at his financial struggles and how they match up with the nation's challenges. His rise is tied to a deeper sense of despair in American politics.

"Shares My Values" is the Political Master Key

I Might Be Wrong • 10 implied HN points • 06 Nov 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy
  1. Voters mainly care about the economy, so candidates focusing on serious economic issues often win more support. Culture war topics, like transgender issues, might seem less important to most voters.
  2. Candidates who seem too focused on culture wars can appear frivolous and out of touch with voters' real concerns. This can damage their credibility and trustworthiness.
  3. It's crucial for candidates to show they share the values of the voters. If people believe a candidate aligns with their concerns and priorities, they're more likely to support them.

Why I Am Voting for Trump

Natural Selections • 107 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy
  1. Trump is independent and doesn't answer to the old power structures in politics. Many people prefer his honesty over politicians who seem insincere.
  2. He is focused on health, including food safety and pharmaceutical practices. The idea is to support real, science-based approaches instead of relying on big companies.
  3. Trump's policies during his first term led to better job creation and a focus on small businesses, which many believe is crucial for American families and the economy.

Why a School Shooting Database Exists: "Clear school safety data is nowhere to be found"

School Shooting Data Analysis and Reports • 39 implied HN points • 20 Dec 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy
  1. Clear data on school safety is lacking, making it difficult for parents and policymakers to understand and address issues.
  2. Government crime data is often not timely, lacks quality control, and varies between agencies, causing confusion in decision-making.
  3. Public government data on school safety is not user-friendly or transparent, highlighting the need for accurate and accessible information.

Why US Health Insurance Companies are Hated

Erik Examines • 89 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Public Policy
  1. People in the U.S. often face a tough experience with health insurance companies, which frequently deny care instead of helping patients. This differs a lot from the experiences in countries with socialized healthcare systems like Norway.
  2. For-profit health insurance companies prioritize their profits over patient care. This leads to a system where they often refuse necessary treatments, pushing patients into stressful battles just to receive care that should be available to them.
  3. Health insurance companies in the U.S. have little incentive to promote preventative care because they risk losing patients. In contrast, public health systems are designed to encourage preventive care, as healthier citizens reduce overall costs.

Commentator

Castalia • 99 implied HN points • 12 Apr 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy
  1. Recent intelligence leaks have raised concerns about U.S. spying and the ongoing challenges in the Ukraine war. The leaked documents suggest Ukraine may face limitations in its offensive capabilities.
  2. There is a growing movement against AI development, with some tech leaders and countries calling for a pause due to potential risks. Many feel that AI could severely impact society if not managed properly.
  3. The Tennessee State Legislature's recent expulsions of two lawmakers over a gun control protest highlights deep political divisions. This event shows significant tension in democratic processes and raises questions about the legitimacy of current governing bodies.

Mistrusting Government About Epstein And More

QTR’s Fringe Finance • 29 implied HN points • 15 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy
  1. Many people are starting to question what the government says, especially about big issues like Epstein or wars. It's important to not just trust officials without thinking for ourselves.
  2. Governments often spread lies about important topics, like how they say they help people but actually hurt them. Recognizing these lies is key to restoring freedom.
  3. As more people lose trust in the government, there's a bigger opportunity to talk about freedom and share ideas that challenge the status quo.

Your local bodega owner is safe for now

Alex's Personal Blog • 32 implied HN points • 30 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy
  1. AI is impressive but has limits. For example, it can't yet manage a store better than a human owner, so your local bodega is safe for now.
  2. Companies like Meta are in a fierce competition for AI talent, offering huge salaries to attract the best minds. This could change the future of AI development significantly.
  3. Younger generations are leaning towards socialism partly due to issues like student debt and unaffordable housing. It's important to understand their perspective and offer better solutions.

Mamdani won. Now what?

Alex's Personal Blog • 32 implied HN points • 25 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy
  1. Xero is buying Melio, a US payment startup, to boost its accounting tools and grow in the payments market. This deal shows Xero's strategy to expand and adapt its offerings.
  2. Mamdani's victory in the NYC mayoral race signals a shift towards leadership less aligned with wealthy interests. This could mean changes in policies that might affect tech elites in the city.
  3. The reaction to Mamdani's win reflects some tech industry's concerns about democracy. Some wealthy figures in tech worry about government decisions that don't align with their interests.

July 11, 2025

Letters from an American • 28 implied HN points • 12 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy
  1. Family celebrations are important, like weddings, which bring everyone together.
  2. Spending time outdoors, such as kayaking, can be a refreshing change and a great way to connect with nature.
  3. Sharing moments and experiences through pictures can help preserve memories and strengthen bonds with loved ones.

On drugs, Glenn Greenwald, and serious jobs

Unreported Truths • 37 implied HN points • 03 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy
  1. Personal life choices, like sexual preferences, shouldn't affect how we view someone's professional work. What people do in their private lives is their business.
  2. Drug use, especially with dangerous substances, can lead to serious issues that affect not just the user but society as well. It’s important for people in influential roles to be cautious about their choices.
  3. We have a responsibility to discourage harmful behaviors, like drug use and gambling, for the good of everyone. These activities can lead to real harm, and it's important for society to address them.

July 30, 2025

Letters from an American • 24 implied HN points • 31 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy
  1. A prominent figure in the Trump administration believes the country is going through a 'second American Revolution' aimed at changing the government to a more right-wing approach. This change involves limiting civil rights and increasing loyalty to the ruling party.
  2. Despite plans like 'Project 2025' being unpopular among Americans, the administration continues to push for major changes, including cuts to programs that help everyday people while expanding the government's power in other areas, like immigration enforcement.
  3. Some actions taken by the government, such as making federal employees publicly pray at work or requiring media companies to avoid 'bias,' show an effort to align institutions more closely with right-wing ideologies, which raises concerns about the state of democracy and civil rights.

July 29, 2025

Letters from an American • 24 implied HN points • 30 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy
  1. Taking time off to relax is important for mental health. It helps recharge our energy and focus.
  2. Exploring nature, like finding boats on an island, can be a fun adventure. It connects us to the outdoors and brings joy.
  3. Sometimes, it's good to go to bed early and rest. A good night's sleep can improve our mood and productivity.

Breast binders for 13-year-old girls funded by RainbowYOUTH NZ

A B’Old Woman • 139 implied HN points • 05 Dec 22
🏥 Health Politics Public Policy
  1. RainbowYOUTH NZ provides breast binders to 13-year-old girls without needing parental permission. This raises questions about parental rights and the safety of the children.
  2. Breast binders can be harmful, as they may lead to health issues like breathing difficulties and back pain. They are similar to old-fashioned corsets that shape the body unnaturally.
  3. There are concerns about the ethics of giving potentially harmful items to minors. Some people wonder if organizations like RainbowYOUTH truly have the best interests of young people in mind.

Should we have Deliberative Democracy?

Erik Examines • 89 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy
  1. Deliberative democracy is about having conversations among citizens to make better decisions, rather than just voting. It focuses on discussing issues deeply before deciding things.
  2. This model can be mixed with traditional democracy, where citizen assemblies could help inform lawmakers. It doesn't replace representatives but enhances how decisions are made.
  3. Using AI can help find common ground during discussions, making it easier for people to reach agreements on policies. It could guide groups to better solutions by analyzing opinions and suggesting compromises.

Anthony Fauci Is Almost Certainly Getting Away With It

Unmasked • 69 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy
  1. The Biden administration faced criticism for its early COVID policies, which many viewed as extreme and unnecessary. Many felt that pushing vaccines on young children was not justified.
  2. States that lifted mask mandates did better than those that kept them, showing that some COVID restrictions may not have been effective. This sparked debates about the effectiveness of mandates.
  3. There were significant efforts to censor opposing views on social media regarding COVID, and some policies, like vaccine passports, created controversy and division among Americans. Many were frustrated with these approaches.

A politician's speech

antoniomelonio • 57 implied HN points • 04 Mar 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy
  1. Politicians often give speeches that can be confusing or vague. It's important to listen carefully to understand their real message.
  2. Sometimes, political speeches might seem to cover important topics but can actually avoid the main issues. Be critical and think about what is truly being said.
  3. It's essential to stay informed and question what politicians say. Don't just take their words at face value; think about what they really mean.

Right Hand – Left Hand. Good Cop – Bad Cop. Is the EO Really about Ending Crime?

Tessa Fights Robots • 23 implied HN points • 27 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy
  1. There's a new Executive Order meant to stop crime, but some people think it's just a trick. They believe it creates chaos instead of actually helping.
  2. This situation can be compared to a good cop and a bad cop playing a game. One side seems to care, while the other side causes problems.
  3. It’s important to question if such laws are really for the people's safety or if there's a hidden agenda behind them.

Why increase fertility when you can just allow more immigration?

Sex and the State • 33 implied HN points • 04 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy
  1. Low fertility can hurt economic growth, which affects many aspects of life. When fewer young people enter the workforce, it can slow down innovation and increase challenges for society.
  2. Relying solely on immigration to solve the problem of declining birth rates isn't a long-term solution. Eventually, countries may run out of people to bring in as global fertility rates fall.
  3. Simply allowing more immigration can also cause societal tensions and may not be popular among locals. It's important to think about how to support both current residents and look for ways to encourage higher birth rates.

OSD 312: Do you remember how hyped you were to buy your first gun?

Open Source Defense • 59 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy
  1. Buying your first gun feels like a big deal, especially if you've never had one before. It's exciting and can feel like a major life choice.
  2. For many people, modern gun culture is still new and unknown. There are many opportunities to introduce them to this world.
  3. The future of gun culture and tech is bright. As more people get involved, there will be many amazing and innovative things created in the coming years.

The aim of maximising happiness is doomed to fail as a public policy

Optimally Irrational • 79 implied HN points • 27 Nov 24
📖 Philosophy Public Policy
  1. Aiming to make everyone happy through public policy might not work. Happiness is not a simple thing that can just be increased.
  2. People adapt to their situations quickly, which means that any increase in happiness usually fades back to a normal level. This makes it hard to keep happiness growing over time.
  3. Happiness is often more about feeling good in the moment than about long-term goals. People might even choose challenging paths because they bring deeper satisfaction, rather than just chasing fleeting feelings of joy.

What I’m reading in health care this week.

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 119 implied HN points • 19 Jan 23
🏥 Health Politics Public Policy
  1. Restaurant workers' money is being used for lobbying instead of improving their wages and healthcare. This is hurting low-wage workers who really need better support.
  2. More seniors are signing up for Medicare Advantage plans, which may not be as beneficial as they seem. It's important for legislators and the public to be cautious about these private plans.
  3. The process for getting medical approvals is becoming a huge hassle for doctors and patients. There are calls for reforms to make it easier and less burdensome to access necessary healthcare services.

OSD 310: How to take a newbie to the range

Open Source Defense • 56 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy
  1. Introduce newbies to guns slowly and safely. Start with talking about noise and safety, and allow them time to get comfortable before shooting.
  2. Choose the right kind of gun for their first experience. A .22 LR is good for beginners as it has less recoil and noise compared to larger firearms.
  3. Make the range visit fun and pressure-free. Focus on their comfort and enjoyment rather than on rules or complex topics like gun laws.

Fool Me Twice

KERFUFFLE • 55 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Policy
  1. Both Democrats and Republicans have used social issues to push their own agendas, with Democrats focusing on wokeness and Republicans on anti-wokeness.
  2. There have been extreme reactions to social justice issues, which can sometimes lead to unfair consequences for individuals involved.
  3. Recent changes in federal policies may dramatically affect funding for essential services like education and healthcare, all in the name of fighting supposed elitism.