Vice President Kamala Harris’s released an "Opportunity Agenda for Black Men,” drawing a swift ratio from X users reacting with incredulity. Less than 24 hours after posting the proposal, it had 23 million views, 35,000 replies, and only 28,000 likes.

Black men deserve a president who cares about making their lives better. pic.twitter.com/cUCdsvvYZ6

— Kamala Harris (@KamalaHarris) October 15, 2024

In the proposal, Harris promises to:

• Give black men “fully forgivable” $20k loans.
• Provide “pathways to become teachers.”
• Protect the cryptocurrency investments of black men.
• Create a “national health initiative.”
• Legalize marijuana.

Most voters react to the proposal as racial pandering and empty promises, further damaging Harris’s image with the very group she’s attempting to court.

• 67% of voters distrust Harris's motives, calling the agenda empty pandering.
• 38% specifically criticize race-based crypto protections.
• 60% of non-black voters say Harris should focus on fixing her immigration policies before pandering to black men.
• 15% are cautiously optimistic but demanding more transparency.

Following Harris debuting the Opportunity Agenda, voter sentiment toward her dropped noticeably.

• Harris’s overall sentiment in the last seven days averaged 43%, dropping to 42% today.
• Specifically, sentiment on the economy dropped from 43% a week ago to 41% today and racial issues dropped from a high of 45% in the last week to a drastic 34% today.

Disingenuous Racial Politics

During the 2024 campaign season, Harris has been known for either remaining vague on her policy positions, piggybacking on Trump-Vance proposals like “No Tax on Tips” and child tax credits, or pandering with grandiose promises.

Harris’s Opportunity Agenda fits into this pattern, promising forgivable loans to black entrepreneurs and cryptocurrency protections specifically for black men. These, many say, are both incredible racial pandering and potentially illegal.

Around 67% of voters reacting are skeptical about Harris’s motivations with the proposal—this is supported by the glaring ratio on her rollout post. People point to her record as California's Attorney General, where she failed to deliver on promises related to criminal justice reform and economic empowerment. Many black voters echo sentiments like, "You are only 'supporting' Black men because you need votes."

The proposal also gained a slew of memes, mocking what many view as disingenuous and infantilizing promises to black voters.

😭😭 pic.twitter.com/SSKFTIftxC

— AtBrightone 📈 🐢 (@Atbrightone) October 15, 2024

Harris Finally Gets Specific on Policy, Too Specific

The proposal to forgive loans for black entrepreneurs and regulate cryptocurrency markets are particular points of ire for many online. Nearly 40% of those discussing the proposal specifically mention their criticism for race-specific provisions in cryptocurrency. And even more are reacting to race-restricted forgivable loans.

pic.twitter.com/B8H3xa7G8g

— The Right To Bear Memes (@grandoldmemes) October 15, 2024

Many voters view this proposal as part of a broader trend in the Democratic Party of focusing on specific groups rather than addressing the needs of nation holistically. Critics view these promises as merely symbolic, with little bearing on the real economic struggles black men, and all Americans, face.

Conservatives also argue Harris’s focus on niche financial reforms—like protections for black men in cryptocurrency —swings too far in the opposite direction from her typical evasion when asked about policy specifics.

People say things like, "Why is crypto suddenly a priority for black men when inflation is through the roof?" Voters express frustration that Biden-Harris policies have created the economic situation and skyrocketing inflation that Americans find themselves in. They view meager promises like “protecting crypto” as completely meaningless amid looming economic strain.

Legal Concerns and Unconstitutionality

The loudest outcry against the Opportunity Agenda is against forgivable loans for black entrepreneurs, which raises legal concerns about discrimination and the Constitution. Thousands of voters push back, suggesting racial policies like these probably violate anti-discrimination laws or violate the Constitution.

Also unconstitutional https://t.co/O7q6irT2UT

— Megyn Kelly (@megynkelly) October 15, 2024

While Harris and her supporters argue targeted programs are necessary to correct racial injustice, most Americans, including some black voters, say Harris wants to undermine equality under the law. Many point out that implementing such a racial policy would likely open up a Harris-Walz administration to lawsuits and harsh public backlash.

Immigration Overshadows Opportunity

In response to the Opportunity Agenda, many people bring up Harris’s broader track record—particularly on immigration. As the Biden administration’s "border czar," Harris faces fierce criticism for allowing an unchecked stream of illegal immigrants, including gangs, murderers, and rapists into the country.

Around 60% of non-black voters are angry about Harris’s lack of urgency over the border. They say the influx of illegal immigrants which strains American communities like Aurora, CO and Springfield, MI are more damaging to black communities than the problems which the Opportunity Agenda would attempt to solve.

Voters are frustrated that Harris is focusing on race-specific economic initiatives while neglecting critical national concerns like border security. They say her failures undermine any credibility she may have in addressing the economic challenges facing black men.

"Mass immigration does not contribute to the dreams and aspirations of Black Americans," one comment states, condemning Harris for making future promises while failing to solve current problems within her control as the sitting Vice President.

The Hollow Promises of the Democratic Party

Voters view Harris’s Opportunity Agenda as just the latest disposable promise made by Democrats to the black community—most of which go unfulfilled. A dramatic 67% of voters doubt Harris’s ability to deliver, questioning her sincerity. Black voters particularly are weary of politicians making grand promises during election cycles but reneging once in office.

This growing disillusionment among black voters is consistent with recent MIG Reports analysis showing Trump gaining with minorities. These voters are beginning to view Harris’s policies as token gestures rather than meaningful reforms.

In the first day after debuting the plan, Harris’s Opportunity Agenda has decisively been shot down by voters who question her authenticity and competence. Legal concerns about discrimination, continued disapproval about identity politics, and her administration’s failures on economic and immigration issues all suggest Harris is failing to make inroads with any American men.

A recent Nutter Butter campaign on TikTok is generating buzz across social media. People perceive it as a bold, unconventional approach to marketing, using AI-generated content and surreal humor. The quirky visuals and cryptic messaging have triggered widespread discussion, revealing cultural and generational shifts in how consumers engage with brands.

MIG Reports delves into the public reactions, unpacking the different sentiments expressed and what they reflect about broader trends in marketing, branding, and societal expectations.

1/5 Attention is everything.

Nutter Butter’s bizarre videos cut through the noise. Safe and boring?

That gets ignored.

Weird wins. 🔥 pic.twitter.com/NXAiSynMGw

— Martin O'Leary (@Martinoleary) October 8, 2024

American Reactions

Many are reacting to Nutter Butter’s campaign with amusement and appreciation for its creativity. Although there is skepticism and criticism over its perceived inauthenticity.

Positive reactions, driven largely by younger audiences, reflect a growing appetite for brands that embrace humor and relatability. Older demographics are more likely to question the effectiveness of such an unconventional approach.

Positive Reactions

• Around half of social media reactions express their enjoyment of the creative, AI-driven content.
• Younger audiences, the 18-25 demographic, resonate with the quirky, humorous visuals and playful engagement, which mirrors their digital lives.
• This group appreciates Nutter Butter’s departure from traditional advertising norms, celebrating its relatability and nostalgic elements of the campaign.
• For many, the campaign represents a refreshing break from polished, serious marketing, bringing the brand into a more personal and fun light.

Gen Z seems less concerned with brand prestige and more interested in how brands can fit seamlessly into their daily media consumption. As a result, Nutter Butter’s strategy successfully taps into the younger demographic’s desire for humor, innovation, and authenticity in brand interactions.

Neutral Reactions

• 20-30% of social media comments are neutral toward the campaign.
• There is curiosity or mild interest in the novelty of AI-generated content but lack a strong emotional connection to the brand.
• Some discuss the effectiveness of such a marketing strategy, wondering whether the trendy approach enhances or diminishes the brand’s identity.

The neutral tone suggests the campaign catches attention but may not deeply resonate with all consumers or drive sales.

Negative Reactions

• 15-30% of comments are skeptical or negative.
• Older demographics, the 30-45 demographic, express concerns about using AI in marketing.
• This group questions whether incongruent approaches damage brand value.
• Many critics feel that the campaign, while innovative, may alienate those who prefer traditional advertising that focuses on product quality and consumer trust.
• There is concern the campaign might be sacrificing brand seriousness and substance for the sake of humor and digital relevance.

Some voice concerns about the shallowness of the messaging, feeling the content’s cryptic nature and reliance on humor may overshadow Nutter Butter’s core product attributes. This exemplifies a broader cultural tension between embracing modern marketing techniques and maintaining the perceived quality and trustworthiness of established brands.

Cultural and Generational Reflections

The varied responses to Nutter Butter’s TikTok campaign underscore a significant cultural and generational shift in how brands interact with their audiences. Younger consumers, especially Gen Z and millennials, embrace risky and humorous branding that prioritizes entertainment and relatability over formality.

The campaign’s success among young people may signal consumer willingness to abandon traditional and legacy methods and mediums. Brands may increasingly be expected to break from traditional advertising conventions and connect with consumers in more human, approachable ways.

However, some argue edgy, unconventional communication tactics are universally appealing to younger generations. They say, what was avant-garde a generation ago is now tired, and the 18-25 demographic is predictable in its desire for “new” and “fresh” media. This interpretation leans away from signs of cultural shift, citing generational cycles as predictors of perceived shifts.

If there is a shift, it seems to confirm the growing power of social media on brand strategies. For Nutter Butter, the decision to lean into AI-generated creativity is a calculated move to stay relevant in a digital landscape.

AI’s Role in Modern Communication

Using AI technology to create surreal, distorted visuals also generates discussion. For some, AI represents a new frontier in marketing. The positive reaction from younger audiences shows their willingness to embrace technology-driven content. This aligns with their digital-first media consumption habits.

However, criticism voices concerns about the role of AI in shaping marketing, content, and news. Many older consumers worry that relying too heavily on AI-generated content will erode the human aspect of creative content as well as its quality and reliability.

Political Undercurrents

Younger generations, particularly Gen Z, prioritize authenticity, humor, and relatability in both advertising and political messaging. This shift coincides with a growing rejection of establishment traditions and methods. The forward-leaning use of AI in marketing, news, and politics, suggests traditional tactics may not appeal to younger audiences.

In a political context, Nutter Butter’s campaign validates growing pushback against established authority. Younger generations challenge political and institutional norms, embracing unconventional and disruptive communication tactics.

Older demographics, who often favor traditional, polished advertising, diverge in their strategies, often lacking connection with target audiences. This divide mirrors political polarization between generations. Meme-driven hype around the launch of Kamala Harris’s presidential campaign illustrates the generational divide on a political front.

Less than 30 days from the election, voter discussions focus on the economy, border security, disaster response. The ideological divides between Harris and Trump drive voter disagreements, but Trump looks stronger on sentiment and voter engagement.

What Voters are Saying

• 60-65% of voters voice positive opinions about Trump’s candidacy.
• The GOP base uses affirmative language of personal commitment and agency.
• 35-40% say they support Harris, with discussions driven by party loyalty and anti-Trump sentiment.
• Feelings toward Harris are mixed, with critiques of her leadership often dominating discussions.

Trump

Affirmative and Personal Support

Trump's supporters use strong, first-person language like "I believe" and "I will vote," reflecting personal investment and a sense of urgency to restore national stability.

Voters view him as competent with economic policy and national security. These issues, along with immigration, drive voter support. Many say they hope he will be a corrective force against Biden-Harris failures over the last four years.

Opposition to Democrats

Some of Trump’s support comes from voters frustrated with Biden and Harris. They disapprove of how Democrats have handled certain crises like immigration, the economy, and natural disasters. Trump's leadership offers hope for a return to order, with voters frequently invoking themes of national pride and urgency for change.

Harris

Opposition to Trump

Voter support for Harris is largely reactive. Most of her backing comes from voters who oppose Trump rather than enthusiastically endorsing her policies. First-person affirmations are less common, and the overall tone is defensive. This suggests party loyalty and anti-Trump sentiment buoy her voting base.

Progressives and Mixed Sentiment

Left leaning progressive support Harris’s stance on healthcare, education, and abortion. But much of the overall conversation is critical. Negative sentiment—even among Democrats—focuses on immigration, critiques of her leadership, and disappointment with foreign policy and the economy.

Economic Issues

• Economic dissatisfaction dominates voter conversations, mentioning inflation, high taxes, and rising costs of living.
• Many voters say Biden-Harris policies have exacerbated these issues, comparing 2024 conditions to memories of Trump’s presidency.
• Sentiment is negative, driven by frustration over stagnant wages and increased financial burdens.

Border Security

• Border security and immigration remain highly contentious, generating strong dissatisfaction.
• There is widespread anger at Biden and Harris for using FEMA funds in illegal immigrants instead of for federal disaster relief.
• Anger about FEMA funds exacerbates frustration about the ongoing influx of illegal immigrants under Biden and Harris.
• Demands for border security feeds into Trump’s "America First" messaging, reinforcing negative views of Democratic polices.

Disaster Response

• The aftermath of Hurricane Helene is driving voter ire toward Harris.
• Many voters feel the federal response has been nonexistent, with insufficient financial aid provided for Americans who lost everything.
• This issue contributes significantly to the negative sentiment, worsening negativity toward Harris in the last few weeks of campaigning.

Ideological Divide

• Americans continue to be polarized ideologically with strong national sentiments on the right, and globalist view on the left.
• Trump supporters view Democrats as advancing radical leftist policies, often calling Harris a far-left progressive, a socialist, or a communist.
• Divides are deep, with loyalty to worldview shaped as much by values as by policies.

Foreign Policy

• Many on both sides of the aisle are worried about foreign policy—particularly in Ukraine and Israel.
• Americans feel foreign conflicts divert attention and resources from domestic issues.
• Negative sentiment ties into broader anxieties about national security and government priorities, with many favoring a return to Trump's foreign policy.
• Segments of the Democratic base also object to Harris’s policy regarding Israel, accusing her of betraying progressive values by not calling for a ceasefire.

Housing

• Housing affordability is also a pressing concern.
• Voters criticize Democrats for prioritizing aid to immigrants over addressing rising costs for American families.
• There is a strong sentiment that economic and housing conditions have worsened under Biden
• People often say Trump’s presidency provided a more favorable quality of life for middle-class Americans.