On October 11, a cargo train robbery in Chicago sparked significant online discussion, with many concerns emerging, from public safety to economic stability and governance. The discussions intertwine layered responses that highlight growing anxiety, frustration, and polarization in American communities.

🚨#BREAKING: Dozens of people are actively looting and breaking into a cargo train ⁰⁰📌#Chicago | #illinois⁰⁰At this time, an estimated 50 to 150 people or more are actively looting and breaking into a cargo train on the west side of Chicago, Illinois. Police have been… pic.twitter.com/SwDIOnSE90

— R A W S A L E R T S (@rawsalerts) October 11, 2024

Cities Aren’t Safe

Public safety is a top discussion theme with 60-65% of reactions across different demographic groups reflecting negative sentiment.

Americans view the robbery as emblematic of rising crime in urban environments. This exacerbates fears about the breakdown of law and order. Many commenters link the event to overall urban violence and decline. There are heightened feelings of vulnerability, particularly among older populations and those living in urban areas. Americans insist on the need for increased vigilance in the wake of the robbery, with some saying they are altering their daily routines in response to the incident.

Political Problems

Political accountability is another dominant topic, with around 60% of comments expressing criticism of local and national leaders for failing to uphold community safety.

Voters blame politicians, particularly those aligned with liberal policies, accusing them of failing to address crime effectively. This sentiment is particularly pronounced among conservative voices and those advocating for law-and-order. Progressives focus on systemic factors, citing economic inequality and the need for community investment, rather than punitive measures following incidents like this.

Top Issues for Urban Americans

Economic Factors

Around 40-50% of comments express economic anxiety, with some linking crime to inequality and some fearing long-term repercussions for local economics.

The economic impact of the robbery is a significant concern, especially regarding how crime affects businesses and the local economy. Discussions about the robbery frequently mention the destabilizing effects of organized crime on small businesses, the logistics industry, and local commerce. Reform vs Reckoning

Some advocate for increased law enforcement and harsher penalties. Others call for systemic reforms to address poverty and inequality. This polarization is greater among urban residents who express more anxiety than their suburban counterparts.

We The People, Can’t

In addition to concerns about safety and governance, many point to growing distrust in government and law enforcement ability to handle crime effectively. Roughly 70% of commenters express frustration with ineffective policies. Many say these policies prioritize political agendas over community safety. This frustration feeds into disillusionment with institutions, spurring demands for systemic change.

Overall, Americans talk of a fractured society grappling with questions about security, governance, and justice. The robbery, while a singular event, has become a focal point exemplifying anxieties about the future of urban life in America. Voters want accountability, demanding politicians and law enforcement officials take decisive action to restore trust and security.

A viral post on X discussing the state of decay across many elements in American life received more than 46 million views. The commentary on American life, which some call a “competency crisis,” resonates with people across the country.

I'M SHOCKED.

After living in Japan for over two years, I recently visited the USA with my wife. It made me realize that the USA is dysfunctional in so many ways and has such a low-quality standard across the board.

Here are the things I noticed:

— Nathan Lands — Lore.com (@NathanLands) October 11, 2024

MIG Reports analysis shows Americans are grappling with perceptions of systemic dysfunction, institutional failure, and declining competence. Discussions reveal embedded anxieties about leadership, governance, and the future of the country.

Public sentiment on topics like efficiency, service degradation, and operational decline includes distrust, frustration, and a desire for more effective leadership.

Distrust in Government

Across multiple crises, the common thread of distrust in government dominates American discussions. There is perceived inefficiency in economic management and government failure to address key national concerns. Many Americans express profound skepticism toward leadership.

• In discussions about the "efficiency crisis," 34% of comments highlight a lack of faith in political leaders from both major parties. Many view government actions as ineffectual or disingenuous.
• In discussions about “institutional failure" 78% of Americans are frustrated with current leadership, particularly regarding rising living costs and the government's inability to manage public resources effectively.
• Distrust extends to concerns over “systemic dysfunction,” where 60% say governmental institutions are either corrupt or incompetent.
• The pervasive lack of confidence in leadership underlines a broader societal shift where citizens feel increasingly disconnected from their representatives.

Economic Hardship and Anxiety

Economic concerns feature prominently in discussions about institutional failure, service degradation, and operational decline. Many Americans directly attribute economic instability to government mismanagement, particularly regarding rising living costs and inadequate disaster responses.

• In discussions about "Institutional Failure," 70% of comments cite economic hardship as a direct result of government policies. Most people feel the government's reported economic successes, such as low unemployment, do not match reality.
• In discussions about “service degradation,” 22% emphasize economic anxiety as a key concern. People mention fears of a "1929-style depression."
• In discussions about "operational decline," 45% focus on the increasing cost of living, feeding resentment toward political elites.

Polarization and Disillusionment

Political polarization and disillusionment are central to the discourse on governance and systemic decline. Many Americans feel the country is more divided than ever, with the discourse about leadership featuring an "us versus them" mentality.

• In discussions of “systemic dysfunction,” 35% of comments reflect the growing political divide. Many view those with opposing political views as a threat to societal stability.
• In discussions about the "competency crisis," 40% express frustration with the two-party political system. People accuse Democrats and Republicans of failing to address the needs of ordinary Americans.
• “Distrust in institutions” is high, with 50% questioning the integrity of political leaders. Some discuss the belief that elections are rigged or manipulated.
• Disillusionment with the political process fosters a climate of cynicism, where many Americans feel neither party offers meaningful solutions to the country's problems.

Desire for Leadership and Accountability

Amidst the frustration and disillusionment, there is a clear desire for strong, effective leadership to address crises.

• 28% say they hope for progressive leadership, particularly from Kamala Harris, who they believe can advocate for marginalized communities.
• 75% want assertive leadership that can implement decisive and strong actions to resolve national crises.
• Among both groups, there is a consistent call for accountability in leadership.
• Around half of the discussion expresses urgency for political change, emphasizing the need for citizens to vote to prevent future failures.

Emotional and Social Impacts

Americans are not just concerned with governmental inefficiencies—they are emotionally affected by the perceived failures of their leaders.

• Discussions about “service degradation” show 32% are disappointed in leadership, particularly over inadequate responses to natural disasters like Hurricane Helene.
• Many feel the government's inability to meet their needs has led to widespread social division.
• People feel emotional strain, expressing fear about safety, financial stability, and the future of the country.
• This emotional toll is compounded by a sense of isolation, as people notice social divisions are deepening, with neighbors turning against each other based on political beliefs.
• Despite this, there is also an undercurrent of resilience, emphasizing the importance of community solidarity in overcoming institutional failures.

A recent video of assault on former New York Governor David Paterson and his stepson has ignited conversations about safety, crime, and political accountability. Discussions reveal societal concerns about urban violence, the vulnerability of public figures, and systemic issues tied to race and governance.

Video has been released showing former New York Gov. David Paterson, who is blind, being beaten with his stepson in Manhattan: pic.twitter.com/DKISbohRWg https://t.co/xHX7tx9sch

— Andy Ngo 🏳️‍🌈 (@MrAndyNgo) October 9, 2024

MIG Reports analysis shows Democratic and Republican reactions, while both focused on the event’s implications, diverge in their framing of the underlying causes and necessary responses.

Patterson Beaten

The assault on Paterson prompted voter discussions spanning concerns over public safety to critiques of political leadership.

• 70% of discussions express fear about rising urban violence.
• 55% advocate for accountability and systemic reform.
• Overall sentiment expresses urgency for change, but there is also skepticism about the efficacy of law enforcement.

There is a wide spectrum of emotional responses, with many framing the assault as part of a broader societal trend of instability and inequality.

Democrat Viewpoints

The Democratic narrative emphasizes racial justice and systemic reform. For many, the assault on Paterson—a prominent African American leader—is framed as part of ongoing struggles against racial violence and systemic inequalities.

• 75% of discussions among Democrats express outrage over the incident, calling for immediate legislative changes and reforms to address these systemic issues.
• Conversations highlight solidarity with marginalized communities, focusing on the disproportionate impact of urban violence on minorities.
• The language uses a tone of urgency, with frequent calls for justice and reform and a focus on systemic change.

Republican Viewpoints

Republicans focus more on crime rates and government accountability. They view the assault as part of larger concerns about the safety of public figures and the failure of local governments to address urban crime effectively.

• 62% of Republican conversations mention concerns about public safety and the lack of effective law enforcement.
• There is fear and frustration, but emphasis is on individual accountability and critiques of leadership.
• Around 9% of Republicans are indifferent, viewing the assault as an isolated incident rather than indicative of systemic issues.

Differences in Linguistic Patterns and Sentiment

There are also linguistic differences between political viewpoints. Democrats emphasize reform-oriented language, frequently using phrases like “enough is enough” and hashtags like #JusticeForPaterson. This language calls for systemic change and structural reforms to address both violence and inequality.

Republicans more often use language of fear and nostalgia. Older demographics in particular reminisce about safer times and express fear over current urban crime trends. The Republican focus on law enforcement and individual safety rather than larger societal critiques.

A viral video from Texas poll worker training reignited concerns about election integrity. In the clip, a trainer says the Texas Secretary of State is directing poll workers to allow non-citizen IDs to be used as valid identification at polling places. He explained this by saying poll workers are to “assume” non-citizens have become naturalized but simply failed to update their ID.

🚨BREAKING: Texas Secretary of State directs poll workers to accept NON CITIZEN driver’s licenses as ID to vote.

WATCH Denton County Elections Administrator Frank Phillips telling poll worker trainees SOS elections director
advised non citizen ID ok to vote.

See receipts🕵🏻 pic.twitter.com/MDIuRy2vPD

— Joseph Trimmer (@JosephTrimmer_) October 9, 2024

This video is sparking debate in Texas and across the country about ongoing election integrity concerns. For those already worried about election integrity, emerging reports imply calculated efforts by state and local officials to muddy the waters on voting transparency.

Republicans Most Concerned about Voter Fraud

• Conservatives: 75% believe allowing non-citizen IDs invites fraud and undermines election integrity.
• Moderates: 50% are concerned over illegal immigrants voting, though they emphasize they do not want legitimate votes suppressed.
• Liberals: 60% dismiss concerns of non-citizen voting, saying all measures in question are limited to ensuring access for legitimate voters.

Many on the right increasingly raise alarm about illegal immigrants potentially voting in the election. They say accepting non-citizen IDs is a direct assault on election integrity. Republicans are the most vocal about widespread fraud in the election, with some agreement from moderates.

Concerned voters feel betrayed by corrupt establishment powers willing to take drastic steps to secure the election for Democrats. Moderates, while less passionate, still echo caution about transparency after 2020 confusion and accusations.

Those on the left downplay concerns about illegal immigrants voting. They say illegitimate votes are either so minimal or nonexistent as to be unimportant. Instead, they focus on implementing inclusion measures, accusing conservatives of fearmongering and trying to suppress legitimate votes.

• In the last 14 days, sentiment regarding election integrity averaged 43.5% among Democrats and 39.7% among Republicans.

Election Integrity in Swing States

• 84% of voters fear fraud in critical swing states could sway election results.
• Fraud fears focus on cities like Atlanta, Philadelphia, and Detroit.

Election fraud in important swing states especially worries those who believe the election process is under threat. Many cite Arizona, Georgia, North Carolina, Wisconsin, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Nevada as areas of high concern.

Battlegrounds where every vote is critical for securing a win put Americans are on high alert for fraud. A dramatic 84% of voters say they worry about improper voting practices, mentioning things like accepting non-citizen IDs or ballot harvesting.

Voters say they worry that even minimal fraud efforts in critical counties could sway state results and even the election. Cities like Atlanta, Philadelphia, and Detroit, where past allegations of fraud continue to sour trust, generate high levels of concern. Particularly on the right, many remain convinced that 2020 was rife with irregularities and attempts to exploit loopholes—both of which they say may happen again in 2024.

Disillusionment and Voter Turnout

• 45% of young voters (18-34) plan to vote in 2024.
• 62% of all voters believe media bias distorts election fraud realities.
• Many cite disillusionment with both major parties and the political system.

Many older voters are focused on election integrity, but younger voters say they feel disengaged and disillusioned. Less than half of the 18-34 demographic say they plan to vote in the 2024 election. Previous MIG Reports analysis also showed 45% of Christians say they do not plan to vote.

More than half of voters say mainstream media intentionally downplays legitimate concerns about voting irregularities. This fuels distrust in the press and voter confidence in government transparency. This distrust is strongest among Republicans who view the media as consistently running cover for Democrats.

Voter disillusionment is a growing issue for both parties, often stemming from distrust in institutions—including the election process. Young voters say Democrats and Republicans both fail to paint a compelling vision for the future. They often feel the entire political system is broken, voicing discouragement and apathy.

The risk for Trump is that growing disengagement could hurt turnout if voters do not believe the election process is secure. The GOP is making strides to implement election integrity measures, but whether that will assuage voter cynicism remains unclear.

Democrats Focus on Misinformation

• 78% of Democrats emphasize combating disinformation over voter fraud.
• Democrats worry about voter suppression and protecting access to voting.
• They dismiss worries about non-citizens voting, focusing instead on laws they see as restrictive—like voter ID laws.

Most Democrats dismiss concerns about election integrity, saying Republicans are stuck on 2020 narratives which have been proven untrue. This group is more worried about controlling disinformation on social media and right-leaning media outlets.

Combating voter suppression and preventing unfounded fraud allegations is a top priority for Democratic voters. They say election cheating narratives are politically motivated to suppress voter turnout, particularly in marginalized communities.

Republicans Tie Immigration to Election Fraud

• 72% of Republicans are skeptical about mail-in voting and illegals voting.
• 59% feel disillusioned about how GOP leadership is handling election integrity.

Skepticism and discouragement are high among Republicans. They say election integrity is critical, with 72% voicing worries about various voter fraud methods. Many Republicans believe Democrats plan to manipulate election results, with few precautions from GOP leaders.

A focal point of worry is on swing states, where control of the Senate and the White House could be at stake. Republicans often express feelings of betrayal by party leaders and say they lack confidence in a fair election.

Recently, Barack Obama appealed to black men, addressing them as "brothas," urging support for Kamala Harris. MIG Reports analysis shows wide-ranging and polarized reactions on social media.

NEW: Former President Barack Obama says the "brothas" aren't turning out for Kamala Harris like they did for him.

The comments from Obama came during an event at the University of Pittsburgh where Obama sounded the alarm on black voters.

"We have not yet seen the same kinds of… pic.twitter.com/v77CHcOv2A

— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) October 10, 2024

The response to Obama’s call brings up issues of identity, representation, and disillusionment within the black community—particularly black men. While there is support for and skepticism toward Obama's message, many raise questions about the larger implications of Democrats losing critical voter groups.

Reaction Trends

Skepticism and Criticism

Around 65-70% of reactions to Obama’s comments are skeptical or outright critical. Voters question Kamala Harris's authenticity as a representative of black Americans, citing concerns that her background and political record do not resonate with the struggles of black men.

Critics largely perceive Obama’s lecture as political manipulation, designed to rally votes without offering meaningful engagement with their concerns. The criticism extends to both Obama and Harris, with many expressing frustration that Democratic elites are disconnected from the economic and social struggles of the communities they claim to represent.

Support for Obama and Harris

Only 20-25% of voters react with support for Obama’s message. This group resonates with his call for racial solidarity. They view the appeal as a necessary rallying cry for empowering black leaders, emphasizing the importance of unity behind Harris.

Supporters believe voting for Harris represents a larger effort to secure political representation for marginalized voices, especially in a time of heightened political stakes. For these voters, Obama’s message carries the weight of moral and racial duty to uplift black leaders in positions of power.

Neutral or Indifferent Reactions

Another 10-15% make neutral or indifferent comments toward Obama’s appeal. They view his call as a standard political maneuver—lacking any significant personal relevance or emotional connection.

They perceive the plea as part of routine political rhetoric rather than a heartfelt call to action. For this group, the message does not resonate deeply enough to move their political allegiances or inspire any meaningful change in perspectives of Harris or the Democratic Party.

Identity and Representation

Across all discussions, the tension between identity politics and political authenticity is a recurring theme. Critical voters feel Obama used identity as leverage or as a political tool, with little regard for the true needs of black men.

Kamala Harris’s identity as a black woman is both a potential point of connection and a source of division. Many black voters feel her policies and political stances do not adequately address the challenges they face. A struggle between representation and authentic engagement is infused in skepticism about Obama's message.

Political Fatigue and Disillusionment

Voters also discuss political fatigue and disillusionment, especially among younger black voters. There is a feeling that Democratic leadership has failed to deliver on promises of change. People often mention economic instability, housing, and systemic inequality in their critical responses.

People are frustrated with empty rhetoric from political elites, with little tangible impact on their daily lives. This sense of betrayal and disillusionment has led to growing political apathy and a reluctance to engage in traditional political processes.

Fractured Political Loyalties

There is a fracture within the black electorate, with many black men feeling increasingly alienated from the Democratic Party. Skepticism toward Harris and the perceived disconnect between political leaders and the community leads to a shift in political loyalties.

This divide is particularly pronounced among younger voters, who are less likely to feel bound by traditional party lines. They are more inclined to question the authenticity and effectiveness of their political representatives.

Potential for Engagement

Despite overwhelming criticism and political fatigue, Obama's message still holds the potential to mobilize certain segments of the black electorate. For those who resonate with his call for unity, the appeal could serve as a rallying point for increased political activism.

However, high levels of skepticism and disillusionment may make it difficult for the Democratic Party to get engagement and voter turnout. Moving forward, the party will need to address these deeper concerns if it hopes to retain the support of black voters, particularly black men.

Social media reactions wend wild with a clip of Kamala Harris using a teleprompter during an alleged "unscripted" town hall. Discussions revolve around public trust in media, Harris’s inauthenticity, and political engagement in today’s polarized climate.

🚨 BREAKING: Univision accidentally broadcast proof that Kamala used a teleprompter at her town hall

Watch them panic when they realized they were showing the prompter live on-air pic.twitter.com/fiUFcfN2Kx

— Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) October 11, 2024

This is the third viral teleprompter event after a video clip circulated which appeared to show Kamala Harris struggling to find words during a rally with allegations that her teleprompter stopped working.

JUST IN: Kamala Harris has no clue what to say after her teleprompter appears to stop working, keeps repeating herself.

The Vice President kept repeating “32 days.”

“Remember his number 32 today? We got 32 days until the election.”

“So 32 days… 32 days… Okay. We got some… pic.twitter.com/2fIl1nyEkq

— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) October 4, 2024

Prior to that, Harris also received backlash after her campaign event and interview with Oprah, where a brief camera angle again showed Harris being guided by a prompter.

WOW! Apparently Kamala Harris had a freaking TELEPROMPTER during her “interview” with Oprah

Scamala Harris is a fraud! pic.twitter.com/BZ7RGahJXs

— Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) September 22, 2024

Leadership and Authenticity in Question

These events are causing Americans to discuss authenticity and proficiency. Many view Harris’s reliance on a teleprompter as indicative of broader issues. They say perceptions that Harris can only speak in scripted situations disconnects her from everyday voters. It also causes many to question her proficiency in critical subjects important for a president to understand and communicate about.

More voters voice doubt about her ability to handle unscripted moments—an essential skill for someone in office. The event also sparked memes, poking fun at Harris’s apparent inability to speak clearly without direction.

LOL! pic.twitter.com/7660YPumm9

— Dr. Simon Goddek (@goddeketal) October 11, 2024

Skepticism is strong among working-class voters, many of whom are grappling with economic challenges like inflation, housing costs, and healthcare access. Already feeling neglected by the Biden-Harris administration, they are frustrated that leaders seem more concerned with media optics and controlling messaging than substantive action. To this group, Harris’s inauthenticity reveals ineffective leadership and an inability to meaningfully engage with voters.

Demographic and Sentiment Breakdown

The controversy resonated across demographic groups, with varied reactions depending on cultural and linguistic backgrounds.

Latino and Spanish-speaking Communities

The teleprompter event aired on Univision, with a portion of the discourse in Spanish. Among Latino audiences, reactions were mixed.

• Some feel disillusioned, citing Harris’s failure to connect authentically with a demographic that is typically critical to the Democratic base.
• Immigration, a deeply personal issue for many, features prominently in criticisms as many disapprove of Harris’s immigration policies.
• A smaller segment defends Harris, emphasizing her progressive stances on social justice and reproductive rights They argue criticism stems from biases against women of color in leadership.

Economic and Policy Concerns

Discussions from economically vulnerable and middle-class groups focus heavily on Harris’s perceived failure to address key issues like rising living costs and healthcare.

• The teleprompter symbolizes a deeper chronic detachment from the struggles of ordinary Americans.
• Harris's policies—particularly around immigration and government spending—are presented evidence that Democrats do not prioritize American citizens.

Polarization and Ideological Division

Reactions to Harris’s town hall appearance are politically divided. For conservative voters, this incident is another example of a failing administration disconnected from its base and mainstream American values. This group makes comparisons between Harris and former President Trump, with critics praising Trump’s direct, unscripted communication style and portraying Harris as overly reliant on canned talking points.

Dissatisfaction with the Biden-Harris administration also surfaces among swing voters and Independents. They view Harris’s performance as political opportunism, lacking leadership qualities and policy vision.

Democrats are defensive, asserting those on the right are overreacting. Many also claim Trump is incoherent and babbling, revealing he has weaker political understandings than Harris.

Media and Manipulation of Public Perception

Voters also discuss the role of media in shaping public perceptions. Some felt touting the appearance as "unscripted" while Harris used a teleprompter confirms their belief that media outlets craft an artificial image of political leaders. This incident fuels a growing belief that the media, especially left leaning outlets, manipulate public perception by controlling how events are framed.

Broader Implications for Political Engagement

A growing perception that Harris is inauthentic and unqualified threatens political engagement among her voters. Disillusionment and frustration are apparent, particularly among swing voters and Independents.

Many are concerned that neither party adequately addresses the pressing issues of the day, leading to a sense of alienation from the political system. This discontent may lead to decreased voter enthusiasm and turnout, especially by those who feel left behind by the political establishment.

Recent media scandals and accusations of “misinformation” serve to further entrench voters in their existing views about free speech and media bias.

MIG Reports data shows:

• Republicans and conservatives blame legacy media outlets of skewing news in favor of Democrats.
• Democrat and liberals are more likely to believe the news unfairly benefits conservatives.
• Free speech advocates view X as a critical platform for keeping media outlets accountable.

CBS and the 60 Minutes Scandal

A "60 Minutes" interview with Harris has become a flashpoint of discussion about media bias and free speech on X (formerly Twitter). Many people online pointed out misleading edits during the interview, with two versions of Harris’s answer to a question—one coherent and the other a “word salad.”

A giant Fake News Scam by CBS & 60 Minutes. Her REAL ANSWER WAS CRAZY, OR DUMB, so they actually REPLACED it with another answer in order to save her or, at least, make her look better. A FAKE NEWS SCAM, which is totally illegal. TAKE AWAY THE CBS LICENSE. Election Interference.… pic.twitter.com/JRxSda3NeC

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 10, 2024

• 63% of voters are frustrated over CBS obscuring the reality of Harris’s responses, saying the network is betraying its political bias.
• Voters called for CBS to release a full transcript of the interview, demanding transparency and accountability.
• Americans say the mainstream media has abandoned impartial journalism and lies to help Democrats.
• Conservatives believe legacy media outlets systematically discredit conservative figures and viewpoints, making platforms like X critical for free speech.

Hillary Clinton’s Call for Information Control

Hillary Clinton recently made comments on CNN extolling the need for controlling misinformation. In a viral clip, she criticized Section 230 and called for its repeal. She said if social media platforms “don’t moderate and monitor the content, we lose total control.”

“If they don’t moderate the content, we lose total control.”

— Hillary Clinton pic.twitter.com/TeJ7qaIeaS

— The Rabbit Hole (@TheRabbitHole84) October 6, 2024

• 68% of voters criticize Clinton’s stance, calling it a violation of free speech and the Constitution.
• Voters say Democrats and the media advocate for censorship and using government force to silence opposing viewpoints.
• Many, especially on the right, say Clinton and others use accusations of “misinformation” to suppress dissenting opinions rather than promote truth.

X as a Free Speech Stronghold

Previous MIG Reports analysis showed less than 25% of all voters trust mainstream media. With this collapse of trust, more Americans prefer alternative platforms like X, which they see as vital for free expression.

• 62% of voters believe X plays an essential role in facilitating free speech and serving as an alternative to biased mainstream outlets.
• 48% worry legacy media and politicians are trying to suppress information shared on X and other online platforms.
• Democrats and Republicans both distrust media but cite bias as benefitting the opposite viewpoints.

Conservative Distrust in Media

Republicans and right leaning voters often feel frustration that mainstream media portrays conservative leaders, especially Trump, in a negative light. Many also point out that legacy outlets like MSNBC admit their bias in favor of Democrats behind closed doors. They say news outlets amplify or suppress stories based on whether they help or hurt Democrats.

BREAKING: @MSNBC Producer Admits MSNBC Is 'Doing All They Can to Help’ the Harris Campaign

During an undercover date with an OMG journalist, Basel Hamdan (@BaselYHamdan), a writer and producer for MSNBC’s show “Ayman,” (@AymanMSNBC) was asked what the network has done to assist… pic.twitter.com/y9Yk8o1UX7

— James O'Keefe (@JamesOKeefeIII) October 3, 2024

• 40% of conservatives discuss their outrage over media portrayals of Trump, arguing the press systematically manipulates narratives to discredit him.
• 65% argue “woke” culture is eroding traditional American values, contributing to extreme political discourse.
• 68% are concerned that the Biden-Harris administration wants to silence critical viewpoints, particularly during times of crisis or controversy.

Democrats Say Media Favors Trump

While Democrats also distrust the media, they believe bias favors conservatives. Many discuss “misinformation” and “disinformation,” saying it is a significant problem exclusive to the right.

• 70% of Democrats believe the media fails to hold Trump accountable for lies, suggesting a systemic bias in favor of conservative narratives.
• 65% say the media amplifies conservative claims about immigration being a crisis, while downplaying the benefits of diverse populations.
• 80% perceive conservative-leaning outlets as promoting misleading information to undermine Democrat credibility.

Inflation is holding strong as a defining economic issue for voters in 2024. Since Biden and Harris took office, reports show consumer prices have risen more than 20%. Americans feel very little hope for relief if trends continue. Online discussions show strong dissatisfaction among all voters, though with some partisan disagreements about who is at fault.

If you made $100,000 a year when Biden-Harris took office...

Congratulations, you now make $83,000 a year.

Vote accordingly. pic.twitter.com/WAV2dI7m47

— John LeFevre (@JohnLeFevre) October 10, 2024

MIG Reports analysis shows:

• 64% of overall voters blame Biden and Harris for the current economy.
• 72% of Americans are unhappy with current wages relative to the cost of living.
• 59% express feelings of financial helplessness due to rising costs.

Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data justifies the negative sentiment Americans express with Consumer Price Index (CPI) trends during the Biden-Harris administration:

• The cost of All Items rose 21% from 2020 to today.
• Food at Home surged 25%.
• Medical Care costs have risen 10%.
• Rent for Urban Consumers rose 24.8% during the current administration.

Americans feel inflation as more than a statistic—they feel it as a daily reality. Discussions on social media overwhelmingly focus on the struggle to cover basic needs like groceries, housing, and healthcare. This is where 72% of voters express dissatisfaction with wage levels relative to inflation. Conservatives are often most vocal, viewing inflation as a consequence of Biden-Harris economic policies.

Wages Aren’t Keeping Up

The mismatch between rising prices and stagnant wages is further driving voter frustration. While the government reports nominal wage gains, increases are swiftly negated by inflation. Bureau of Labor Statistics data shows median weekly wages reached $1,151 this year. However, when adjusted for inflation, purchasing power is equivalent to just $946 in 2020 dollars. This gap between nominal and real wages highlights the tangible quality of life strains Americans feel.

MIG Reports data shows:

• 48% of economic discussions mention wage stagnation.
• 60% are skeptical of government statistics on job growth and wages.

Many Americans feel they’re being lied to about the state of the economy—though this sentiment is more common among Republicans. Voters say the so-called wage increases mean nothing when they cannot afford the same expenses they did four years ago.

Partisan Political Blame

Overall, Americans are unhappy about the economy. Most blame the Biden-Harris administration for rising inflationary pressures, but there are partisan divides. Sentiment is strongest among Republicans with 84% blaming Biden-Harris as the primary source of economic hardship.

Republicans

Inflation and the economy are top issues for Republicans, along with border security.

• Economic Mismanagement: Republicans view Democratic policies, particularly the American Rescue Plan and Inflation Reduction Act, as directly fueling inflation. They believe these measures injected too much money into the economy, benefiting government and corporate interests at the expense of citizens.
• Support for Trump: 85% of Republican voters intend to vote for Trump, saying his policies manage economic issues more effectively. They often cite pre-COVID quality of life, calling for “America First” policies that reduce government spending.
• Distrust of Government: 55% of Republicans are skeptical that a Harris administration would implement any substantial policy changes. They view the government’s attempts to combat inflation as ineffective or exacerbating.

The dominant tone among Republicans is one of anger and distrust, with many voters convinced that a change in leadership is the only way to address the rising cost of living.

Democrats

Many Democratic voters defend Biden’s economic policies, citing wage growth and job creation, though some acknowledge the ongoing challenges of rising costs.

• Economic Optimism: 25% of Democratic voters highlight Biden-Harris efforts to address inflation, pointing to initiatives like the Inflation Reduction Act and the American Rescue Plan as positive steps. They say inflation is now under control.
• Blaming Trump: 60% blame inflation on Trump’s legacy, specifically citing his tax policies, trade wars, and COVID-19 policies. They view Biden and Harris as working to fix problems inherited from Trump, not creating new ones.
• Frustration Over Jobs: However, 15% are skeptical about whether Biden-Harris initiatives will make lasting improvements. They acknowledge positive job reports but worry about wage growth. Tim Walz in particular is facing state-level criticism for perceived mismanagement.

The Democratic voter base is split between those who defend the administration and those who are frustrated by inflation and stagnating wages. The largest theme is defensiveness, as many say the highest priority is preventing a second Trump term.

Independents

Discussion among Independents is low, but most express disillusionment with both political parties. Many directly blame Democrats, but there is not loss of criticism for Trump as well.

• Economic Frustration: 62% focus on rising costs of living and the strain of inflation on average American families. There is urgency and a call for immediate action to slow skyrocketing prices.
• Kamala Blame: Many Independents criticize Harris for not addressing the inflation crisis effectively in the last four years. They say she mismanaged the economy as well as immigration, which impacts both economic strain and public safety.
• Poor Disaster Response: 25% criticize inequities in government support following Helene and Milton. Many voice discontent over the federal government prioritizing illegal immigrants over American citizens affected natural disasters.

Economic Discontent Drives Votes

With Election Day less than a month away, economic discontent is likely to influence voter behavior. Trump is poised to capitalize on this frustration, especially in swing states where economic concerns are a high priority.

Predictions

• Republican Turnout: Many expect high voter turnout among Republicans, particularly in suburban and rural areas hit hardest by inflation and stagnant wages.
• Few Swing Votes: Independents and moderates, though disillusioned with both parties, may swing Republican if Trump maintains strong economic messaging and Harris continues to fumble media hits.
• Economic Discontent: If Americans continue to feel individually impacted by economic conditions, they are likely to lean further into a change platform. Mixed messaging from Biden and Harris on Harris’s track record and future plans will likely push voters toward Trump.

Christian voter intentions revealed in online discussions are divided. Various religious groups have varying priorities, concerns, and theological underpinnings influencing their desire to vote.

Recent reporting suggests only 51% of “people of faith” plan to vote in the election. MIG Reports analysis indicates some of the reasons for this divide.

NEW—According to new survey data by George Barna, only 51% of “people of faith” plan to vote this November.

TRANSLATION:

- 41 million born-again Christians WILL NOT VOTE
- 32 million mainline Christians WILL NOT VOTE

This is a five-alarm fire.

The local church must be…

— Charlie Kirk (@charliekirk11) October 7, 2024

Christian Voter Issues

While some issues overlap, there are several major concerns across various Christian voter groups.

35% of Christians prioritize abortion and pro-life values

• Christians, particularly evangelicals, rank abortion as one of the most critical moral and political issues.
• Many view it as religious more than political, saying candidate positions on abortion determine their suitability for leadership.
• Pro-life Christians voice their faith as a driving force for voting decisions.
• Approximately 40% of pro-life discussions commit to vote for a pro-life candidate.

30% of Christians prioritize religious freedom and morality

• Christians worry about protecting religious liberties, with a noticeable fear of increasing secularism.
• Many say candidates should defend the rights of religious institutions.
• Around 30% of discussions center on preserving Christian values in public policy.
• Christians view these issues as not both political and theological, tied directly to their biblical interpretations.

20% of Christians prioritize social justice and economic concerns

• Economic issues regarding middle-class and lower-income families drive Christian discussion.
• These voters want candidates who address economic stability, taxation, and social equity.
• About 20% of comments prioritize economic and social concerns in voting decisions.
• Many Christians view economic issues through compassion, particularly when discussing poverty and economic disparities.

25% of Christians prioritize border security

• Immigration is divisive, with 20-30% of comments voicing concerns over government policies.
• Christians who emphasize national identity and family integrity see strict immigration policies as defending Christian values.
• They aim to protect the social fabric and Christian identity of America.

15% of Christians prioritize cultural and moral decline

• Concerns over societal decay, particularly on issues like gender identity and sexual orientation, are critical for many Christians.
• 10-15% focus on the need for candidates to uphold traditional family values, with a strong emphasis on cultural preservation.

10% of Christians prioritize environmental stewardship

• A smaller group discusses environmental stewardship, particularly younger Christians.
• These voters frame their desire for climate-conscious candidates through a theological lens, viewing environmentalism as a biblical responsibility.

Issues Discouraging Voting

40-45% of Christians cite disillusionment with politics

• Many Christians feel neither political party adequately represents their values.
• A feeling of disenfranchisement drives almost half of Christians to abstain from voting.
• Concerns about political corruption and a lack of genuine Christian principles in politics are frequently complaints.

10-15% of Christians cite partisan divides

• Polarization within Christianity, especially between evangelicals and mainline Protestants, contributes to a sense of sadness and resignation.
• These divisions cause frustration over the inability to unite on moral and theological issues.

Trending Sentiments

60-70% voice negative sentiment toward current leadership

• Most Christians express dissatisfaction with the Biden-Harris administration.
• 60-70% of discussions reflect negative sentiments, often using terms like "gaslighting" and accusations of dishonesty.
• These voters view Democrats as advancing policies that undermine Christian values, particularly on issues like abortion and religious freedom.

30% voice hope for a Christian leader

• Despite widespread disillusionment, 30% of Christians say they hope for a leader who aligns with biblical principles.
• There is desire for a leader who represents a more biblically faithful ethos, with many discussions invoking a desire for a “Christian king” figure.

Denominational Perspectives

Evangelicals

• More than half of the discussion is among evangelicals.
• This group focuses on issues like abortion, religious freedom, and traditional family values.
• They vocally support conservative candidates and are more likely to vote, viewing it as a moral obligation.

Mainline Protestants

• This group represents 20-25% of the discussion.
• Protestants are focused on social justice, climate change, and economic inequality.
• While still critical of current leadership, they are often frustrated with hyper-partisanship and seek a broader, more compassionate platform.

Catholics

• 20% of discussion is among Catholics.
• They often have a split perspective, with some emphasizing social justice and others pro-life values.
• They navigate a complicated political space, often considering candidates from both sides based on how well they articulate these issues.

Desire for Biblical Leadership

Most Christians discuss wanting a leader who embodies biblical values, sometimes voicing a desire for a "Christian king" or a leader who reflects Christian ethics and doctrines. This sentiment aligns with a desire to return to “biblical leadership,” which resonates deeply with Christian communities, particularly evangelicals.

Theology and Leadership

Discussions often invoke scriptural justifications for voter desires for a leader who rules in accordance with Christian doctrine. Christians who want a biblically faithful leader tie that idea to a belief that leadership must be guided by God’s law, reflecting both theological and moral commitments.