There isn't an algorithm, it's just other people. I looked at your comments. They're mostly short sentences on single lines instead of paragraphs, resembling ad copy. When you go to the effort of letting your words flow, like your post about the closure of the technical bookstore in San Diego, they get some engagement.

Try being less of a curmudgeon. A lot of your comments are just expressions of negative sentiment but lacking argument or an alternative perspective that would invite debate or discussion. Also, submitting more news stories will start more conversations.