TL;DR
We’re shouting out seven partner organizations and independent creators whose Substacks are essential reading for anyone involved in building long-term Democratic power
From job boards and elections coverage to human rights reporting and political satire, there’s something here for every politically engaged reader
We recommend subscribing to all of them, because we’re proud to be in this work with each and every one
At NDTC, we’re lucky to work alongside some of the most dedicated organizations and voices in progressive politics. And lately, a lot of them have been showing up in our inboxes in the best way possible — through Substack.
Whether you’re a budding candidate, campaign staffer, or a politically engaged activist, we’ve got a reading list for you. Here are the newsletters we’re reading, loving, and think you should be too. Because sometimes you need cutting-edge news coverage, and sometimes you just need a laugh to take the edge off of the godawful news.
🏛️ Partner Organizations
Jobs That Are Left – GAIN Power
If you’re building a career in progressive politics — or know someone who is — this one is non-negotiable. GAIN Power curates job listings, events, and career opportunities specifically for people powering progressive politics and policy.
For NDTC’s campaign staffers in training, this one should be bookmarked right now. Subscribe, set notifications, and check it regularly. Opportunities move fast.
Latino Victory
Latino Victory is on the front lines of electing Latino leaders at every level of government — and their Substack lives cover the full scope of that mission. From voter mobilization to fighting disinformation, their posts keep you connected to one of the most important electoral movements in the country. If you want to invest in building a truly representative democracy, this is essential listening and reading.
The Downballot
From Senate races to city council seats, The Downballot is the premier nonpartisan source for the thousands of elections that happen below the presidency — and that often don’t get the coverage they deserve. Journalists, activists, political professionals, academics, and enthusiasts all rely on them for accurate and comprehensive coverage.
If you’re keeping tabs on your local elections, are researching for a potential run, or just want to start following elections below the top of the ticket, this is how you do it.
✍️ Creators We Love
Amanda’s Mild Takes – Amanda Nelson
Amanda brings wit, historical depth, and a dash of salt to digestible political commentary. If you think understanding history is key to understanding the present (it is), Amanda’s newsletter delivers both with charm. If you missed our CEO Kelly Dietrich’s appearance on her page, it’s not too late to check it out.
Jess Britvich’s Substack
A former social worker turned creator, Jess covers the intersection of internet culture, trends, and politics through a progressive, feminist lens. She’s sharp, culturally fluent, and politically grounded. Subscribe if you want to understand how online culture and politics feed each other and fight each other — and check out her GRWM with NDTC staff member Kelly Sherman. (I run this Substack, hi!)
Let’s Address This – Qasim Rashid
Qasim Rashid’s newsletter is a human rights project at its core. He delivers consistent insights on the critical human rights issues shaping our world. In a media landscape that often flattens complexity, Qasim illuminates what’s really going on with clarity. If your politics is grounded in human rights, his page is for you.
The Left Hook – Wajahat Ali
Wajahat Ali describes his platform, The Left Hook, as “a thoroughly opinionated and biased intellectual playground”, and we can confirm it’s a fun one. He gives his unfiltered political, cultural, and religious views without censorship or centrism. If you’re tired of lukewarm mouthpieces and want someone who can deliver their opinions with conviction, Wajahat is your guy.
Kelly Dietrich spoke with him earlier this year about Democrats’ messaging and how we can win back voters. Check it out after you subscribe.
🗳️ Keep the Movement Moving
We’re proud to be in community with all of these organizations and writers. The progressive ecosystem is strongest when we lift each other up — and that includes making sure great voices get the audiences they deserve.
Hit subscribe on all of them — and us, while you’re at it. Share with a friend. And as always, keep building.
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