In a White House press conference, Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre recently claimed clips of Joe Biden looking confused are "cheap fakes." These comments, particularly dismissing footage of former president Barack Obama leading Biden off stage by his wrist, are causing uproar among those who view the president as clearly in cognitive decline.
White House Gaslighting
Most average voters who witness Biden’s ongoing deterioration at public appearances perceive the White House comments as blatant gaslighting. This group says the White House is attempting to dismiss any negative portrayal of Biden as fabricated, attempting to undermine any legitimate criticism.
Many say labeling inconvenient clips as "cheap fakes" is a tactic to delegitimize opposing voices and maintain a favorable image of the administration, even at the expense of reality. These voters are concerned that Democrats are actively eroding trust in American, reinforcing a belief that government is manipulating information to maintain control.
Others see the White House’s dismissal of any negative story related to Biden as consistent with past efforts to suppress information. For them, Hunter Biden’s laptop denial by Democrats and the media symbolizes a broader pattern of lying to and insulting the public.
Some also say the White House Press Secretary made up the term “cheap fakes,” as a desperate attempt to confuse people. They say Jean-Pierre wanted to imply the videos are deep fakes but knew she could not say it outright since they’re not deep fakes.
Memes and Resurfacing Biden Clips
Online reactions to Press Secretary Jean-Pierre claiming footage of Joe Biden walking around confused and fumbling his words are “cheap fakes” often include memes, insults, and outright disbelief.
— Citizen Free Press (@CitizenFreePres) June 19, 2024
Many right leaning voters took the opportunity to post clips of Joe Biden currently and from years past, reminding everyone the White House has broadly labeled them all “cheap fakes.”
CHEAP FAKE ALERT:
A new video is out that seemingly shows President Biden struggling to go inside a Suburban.
An anonymous source says that what ACTUALLY happened was Biden was demonstrating how difficult life is for handicapped people of color. pic.twitter.com/3yotZYPKj1
Frustrated Americans who are fed up with feeling the White House and mainstream media constantly lie to voters also ripped outlets like CNN, CBS, and MSNBC for unquestioningly regurgitating Biden administration talking points.
BREAKING: @CBSNews falsely claims that raw footage of Joe Biden at the G7 was "DIGITALLY ALTERED."
Here is a video comparing the "cheap fake" with the raw footage. Please note that they are EXACTLY THE SAME! pic.twitter.com/41AwLVC32Z
— Andrew @ Don’t Walk, RUN! (@DontWalkRUN) June 19, 2024
CNN spent almost all day warning people about cheap fake videos yesterday. They needed to interview their own staff. pic.twitter.com/GyTamOniNW
Mainstream news figures like Brian Stelter and Nicole Wallace both received flack online for their breathless support of the White House narrative about Joe Biden. Many in the media focus on the alleged cheap fakes, while leaving questions of Biden’s health completely unasked.
‘CHEAP FAKES!’ The Biden campaign is so screwed that today, they rolled out a new strategy to tell Americans they can't believe their own eyes when seeing video evidence of Biden's mental decline.
Progressive Democrats say they believe Jean-Pierre’s explanation and insist it's a necessary effort to address misinformation in the digital age. They argue with the proliferation of sophisticated editing tools, it is crucial for the administration to call out manipulated content. For these partisan voters, promoting the party line is a matter of safeguarding democracy, even if they don’t personally believe it.
Though many Democrats are unwilling to speak out publicly about Joe Biden’s mental and physical health, MIG Reports data suggests many are questioning it. Plummeting approval numbers for Biden and increased conversations about Biden’s ability to lead the country suggest even Democrats don’t believe White House rhetoric. However, many Democrats also seem willing to prioritize beating Trump over shielding the country from an incapacitated Joe Biden’s second term.
An Ecuadorian national in the U.S. illegally was arrested for raping a 13-year-old girl at a popular Queens park. NYPD made the arrest after a group of at least 10 neighbors swarmed and detained the criminal until police arrived around 1 a.m. on Tuesday.
BREAKING: We spoke to the #Queens man who recognized and physically restrained the alleged rapist, Christian Geovanny Inga, overnight. Jeffrey Flores says he saw the NYPD flyer and quickly identified the suspect, who he says frequents a bodega in Corona, Queens. @NBCNewYorkpic.twitter.com/NPDKvOrEtM
Following the event, emotions are running high and political tensions continue among American voters. One prominent cause of pain and disagreement is immigration policy and public safety. These conversations surged as news came out that the illegal alien perpetrator crossed the border with a 3-year-old in 2021.
Americans Demand Border Security
A dominant sentiment on social media highlights anger and frustration towards the Biden administration and Democrats. Voters are expressing outrage, attributing the crime to the administration's lenient border policies.
This anger is often framed within a broader critique of government failures to protect American citizens, tying individual criminal acts to systemic policy decisions. Users argue policies allowing more illegal immigrants into the country, and those who make such policies, are directly responsible for increased crime rates, including violent acts like rape and murder.
There is also notable skepticism over media coverage, with accusations that mainstream outlets are downplaying or ignoring crimes committed by illegal immigrants. This distrust in media reporting is coupled with a strong desire for what users call "real justice" and a sense of having to take matters into their own hands due to government negligence.
The discussion is also frequently tied to legislative and policy debates, with people contrasting current border security measures against those implemented during the Trump administration. They draw comparisons to emphasize that border deaths were lower under Trump.
There is a call for a return to Trump’s policies, which many see as more effective in safeguarding American citizens. The narrative often suggests Biden and Democrats do not prioritize American lives but are instead focused on political agendas and international matters. People resent focus on things like Ukraine funding at the expense of national security.
The tragedy of events like the one in NYC has a clear impact on voting patterns. There are repeated calls for the 2024 election to be a judgment on the Biden administration’s immigration policies.
There is a strong indication that voters who identify as Republican or are dissatisfied with Democratic leadership, this issue will galvanize support for Trump or Trump-aligned candidates. The rhetoric suggests a rallying cry for change, using personal safety and national security as key motivators.
A Rebuke to Biden’s Immigration Policies
The prevalent voter sentiment is heavy with anger and frustration directed at the Biden administration's immigration policies. Many blame President Biden for an uncontrolled surge in illegal immigration, attributing violent crimes committed by undocumented individuals to his "open borders" stance.
A significant number of Americans argue Biden’s policy changes, which they claim dismantled the measures put in place by former President Donald Trump, have led to an increase in crimes committed by illegal immigrants. This has fueled accusations that Biden and the Democrats are more focused on securing votes through immigration policies than protecting American citizens.
There is also considerable debate about the effectiveness and intent behind Biden’s recent policies for “border relief” and amnesty. Critics insist these efforts are too little, too late. They also believe any policy adjustments are politically motivated attempts to repair the damage caused.
Even some Democratic or left-leaning voters express their frustration with Biden. This dissatisfaction could potentially motivate a swing toward Trump in the upcoming election, as many believe he had stronger immigration policies. However, there are voices calling out what they see as fear-mongering and misleading statistics aimed at stoking public fear and resentment against all immigrants, not just illegal ones.
Most Americans call for stricter immigration controls, including mass deportations, citing concerns about crime, economic impact, and public safety.
The sudden and indefinite removal of Zyn nicotine pouches from the market has caused a predominantly negative reaction from Americans. Zyn users and anti-regulation advocates express frustration, confusion, and concern. Many voice discontent with the decision to discontinue Zyn sales in the U.S. after the company received a subpoena about its compliance with D.C.’s ban on flavored tobacco.
Many Americans say Zyn has been a significant part of their lives and they’re unhappy if it becomes unavailable. This disruption appears to have affected various demographics, from younger individuals and older consumers who use tobacco products.
The discussion trends show heavy engagement across social media, blogs, and forums. Conversations often pivot around regulatory concerns, health implications, and the economic impact on both consumers and businesses. Some users speculate that Zyn's removal may relate to regulatory scrutiny, suggesting potential issues in compliance or safety which have not been transparently communicated. Meanwhile, others focus on the health impacts, hypothesizing that undisclosed health risks could be a reason for the abrupt market withdrawal.
Economic ramifications are another hot topic, particularly for small business owners and retailers who sell Zyn products. Discussions reflect anxiety over potential revenue losses and the search for alternative products. Zyn users from various economic backgrounds lament the loss of a product they had budgeted for, indicating the product’s broad market penetration and consumer dependency.
Demographically, the reactions can be categorized into distinct patterns. Younger adults, often vocal on platforms like X and Instagram, use hashtags and memes to express their frustration and seek out information on possible replacements. This group also shares concerns about lifestyle adjustments and habitual changes resulting from Zyn's absence. Many younger voters also have general regulation concerns for things like TikTok, NYC mask bans, and in some cases pornography.
Middle-aged and older adults, who are more prevalent on platforms like Facebook and local news forums, tend to adopt a more pragmatic tone. They discuss the implications more analytically. Their conversations often delve into personal anecdotes about how the disruption impacts their daily routines, household expenses, and even broader societal implications.
A smaller subgroup within these demographics comprises health-conscious individuals who view Zyn’s market removal as a potential positive development. They often advocate for natural alternatives and discuss the importance of regulatory compliance for consumer products.
President Joe Biden’s border and immigration policies continue to upset Americans. Discussions about the U.S. border are rife with emotion, division, and significant concerns about Biden's failure to protect the country.
Voter sentiment is heavy with frustration and alarm among everyone critical of Biden's policies. Reactions encompass several recurring themes, notably the fear of national security threats, economic pressures, and political dissatisfaction.
The Top Worries for American Citizens
National Security and Public Safety
Many perceive President Biden's approach to the border as lenient and poorly managed, bordering on treasonous. A recurring narrative insists his policies enable illegal activities like drug trafficking, human trafficking, and even terrorism.
Specific references are made to reports of individuals with alleged ties to ISIS being apprehended within the U.S., fueling fears about inadequate screenings and the potential for future terrorist actions on American soil.
Economic Worry
Americans are still very worried about the economy and how illegal immigration impacts U.S. households. Many people argue an influx of illegal immigrants places undue stress on our financial resources.
Voters see taxpayer dollars being redirected to support illegal populations at the expense of American citizens, especially those from the middle and lower classes. Their dissatisfaction is reflected in discussions about inflated costs of living, including rising prices for food, housing, and general goods, which are attributed to the broader scope of Biden's economic strategies.
Another poignant aspect is social and security costs, with reports of tragic crimes committed by illegal immigrants angering citizens. Stories like that of Laken Riley’s murder underline the personal impact of what is characterized as reckless policy making.
The most high-profile crimes committed by illegal immigrants often elicits calls for significant changes in leadership or sharper policy shifts. The murder of Rachel Morin by an illegal immigrant is another frequently cited tragedy as emblematic of the dangers believed to be inherent in the current approach to border security.
America Last
Amidst safety and economic grievances, there is also noticeable political disillusionment. Critics often accuse Biden and his administration of putting the interests of illegal immigrants above those of the American people. They argue unchecked illegal crossings cause a dilution of American values and the erosion of national security.
Calls for more stringent deportation policies, the firing of political figures seen as complicit, and even the impeachment of President Biden and other officials appear frequently within these conversations.
Biden’s Support
Contrasting sharply with criticisms of Biden are Democrat supporters who view America as having legal and moral obligations to provide asylum and refuge to those in need. This group advocates for humane treatment and mindful consideration of human rights, which they argue are being addressed through current policies. However, the discussion here is often overshadowed by the louder and more predominant concern about the collapse of national security and economic instability.
Suspicions About Democratic Endgame
The reaction to Biden's policies also shows significant distrust toward Democrat border messaging and a deep skepticism about the authenticity of Biden’s motives. Some Americans believe the administration's actions are politically calculated to sway public opinion ahead of elections.
Critics don’t believe the Democratic Party supports genuine attempts to resolve immigration issues. Voter accuse Biden and Democrats of prioritizing political survival over effective governance are a common critique among opponents.
Many Americans express vehement opposition to Biden's approach, characterizing it as weak and labeling it an "open borders" policy that has led to an influx of criminal activity. These individuals often underline events where illegal immigrants have been implicated in violent crimes as evidence supporting their concerns, arguing Biden's administration has failed to protect American citizens.
Voters feel Democratic border policies prioritize illegal immigrants and may even have cynical ends like swaying the election through illegal voting. These fears heighten voter dissatisfaction and amplify demands for stricter immigration laws and greater border enforcement.
Supporters of stronger border security frequently emphasize the notion of legal immigration, maintaining they are not opposed to immigrants per se, but rather to illegal entry into the country. They advocate for mass deportations and the establishment of more rigid legislative measures, such as imposing severe penalties on those who hire illegal immigrants.
Hillary Clinton's unexpected appearance at the Tony Awards has gotten fawning praise from liberals and disgust from conservatives. In her short speech, she mentioned her failed presidential campaign, celebrated women’s suffrage, and appealed to all Americans to get out and vote.
Many viewers were exhausted to see such a divisive figure like Clinton at an event traditionally dedicated to celebrating theatrical achievements. They view this disconnect as another indicator that mainstream media and entertainment are biased to the left.
A tweet from Deadline Hollywood showing a clip of Hillary Clinton's appearance garnered significant criticism both for Hollywood and Hillary herself in the replies.
Liberal Elites Can’t Get Enough of Themselves
Supporters argue Clinton's presence is a positive endorsement of the arts and a recognition of their cultural significance. To them, her participation symbolizes how politics and entertainment can collaboratively advocate for important social issues.
Partisan celebrities and political figures say they appreciate a seamless integration of political figures into entertainment venues. They view it as an opportunity for politicians to engage with different audiences and to humanize political discourse.
Media and progressive narratives frame Clinton's appearance as an endorsement of the arts, rather than an opportunistic and desperate attempt to pump up Joe Biden’s campaign. Many in this group deny that entertainment is increasingly being politicized by Democrats, instead claiming both art and politics stand to gain from greater visibility and mutual reinforcement.
Normal Americans are Exhausted by Elite Smugness
Conversations surrounding her appearance also bring attention to the disconnect between political elites and average voters. Many people see her presence at such events as indicative of a cloying political strategy that fails to resonate with everyday concerns.
They argue political figures hobnobbing with celebrities at glamorous events, like Joe Biden’s recent fundraising event, reveals they are out of touch. People feel the struggles of ordinary Americans who face real-life issues are diminished by theatrical political pandering.
Many who used to be fans of art and culture also believe awards shows, which have become extremely politicized, should be apolitical entertainment. They believe the arts should be an escape from the relentless news cycles and partisan battles.
Normal voters say the appearance of political figures at entertainment events feels invasive, turning what should be moments of levity and creativity into platforms for political grandstanding. This sentiment is particularly strong among those who feel the entertainment industry already leans too heavily into political advocacy, often at the expense of diverse viewpoints.
Criticism Toward Hillary and the Media
Critics also argue that Clinton is one of the worst offenders when it comes to alienating voters and appearing insular and self-congratulatory. For this group, Clinton’s appearance is not only out of place but downright insulting. Most view Clinton as a washed-up politician who cannot let go of her loss to Trump in 2016.
This perception is particularly acute among voters who are weary of the symbiotic relationship between mainstream media, Hollywood, and the political elite. They view these entities as working together to marginalize dissenting voices and dismiss substantial issues facing Americans.
Further exacerbating these tensions is a broader sense of frustration at the entertainment sector becoming increasingly politicized—and almost exclusively in service to liberal ideologies. Leftist bias, conservatives say, diminishes trust in both the media and political figures. It also alienates conservatives, promoting a sense of disenfranchisement in those being sidelined by elite and media narratives.
Overall, Hillary Clinton's appearance at the Tony Awards once again spotlights the contentious relationship between politics and entertainment in America. While liberal elites praise the gesture, most Americans view it as a cringey attempt by elites to maintain their power over politics and the culture.
Online discourse about AI and American jobs continues to show worry. There is an overall negative sentiment, specifically among 50- to 60-year-olds and those in blue-collar positions.
Recent economic studies indicate negative sentiment is likely to continue as workers fear AI displacement in the workforce. This will likely extend beyond the cited demographics as more people consider the implications of AI on jobs. Several industries beyond blue-collar are feeling AI’s impact on the workforce.
The automotive sector led in job cuts, with Tesla slashing 14,000 jobs. This adds to a total of 14,373 for the month and 20,189 for the year, a 108% increase from last year.
Education jobs followed with 8,092 cuts in April, totaling 17,892 for the year. This is up 635% from the previous year due to budgetary constraints and recruitment issues.
The Healthcare industry saw 5,826 job cuts in April, totaling 17,218 for the year, a 41% decrease from last year.
Technology jobs saw 47,436 cuts this year, which is a startling 58% decrease from last year.
The media industry reported 8,091 cuts this year, down 29%. However, the news subset is up 12% at 2,184 cuts.
While not all job cuts were directly a result of AI innovations, many view AI as one more threat among many for jobs. People worry about the economy and other factors, which worsen fears that companies may opt to save money with automation.
American Fears About AI Displacement
There is a sense of inevitability and concern in most discussions about job cuts and AI. People are apprehensive about the rapid pace of artificial intelligence development and its potential to automate jobs that were previously considered secure. This includes jobs requiring higher education or specialized training.
Conversations often reflect concerns about technological unemployment, with some expressing anxiety about being forced into early retirement before they have had a chance to secure financial stability.
Sentiment Trends
Feelings about AI’s impact on employment trends are largely negative. Many Americans worry that AI and automation could push them out of the labor market prematurely. This would damage their ability to save adequately for retirement.
Displacement anxieties are especially noticeable among middle-aged workers who feel they are too young to retire but too old to re-enter the job market if displaced. These discussions frequently underscore the lack of adequate retraining and reskilling opportunities, which exacerbates fears.
Demographic Patterns
Some demographic patterns are also evident in these discussions. Older workers, particularly those in their 50s and early 60s, are more vocal about their concerns, specifically regarding AI.
Older workers often highlight the difficulty in finding new employment at a later stage in their careers. They also mention the inadequacy of their retirement savings in the face of unexpected job loss.
Younger demographics seem to express a different kind of concern. Their focus is more on long-term job security and the career disruptions AI might cause. Many younger workers are optimistic about their ability to adapt to new working conditions. However, they are still somewhat anxious, especially amid larger economic worries.
Geographically, workers in regions with a higher concentration of manufacturing and traditionally blue-collar jobs express more anxiety. Discussions in more tech-centric regions might reflect a more balanced or even optimistic view, with some anticipating that new job categories will emerge as AI technology evolves.
Withing the negative discussion, there also exists a minority viewpoint that sees AI as an opportunity rather than a threat. This group usually consists of those who work in tech or have seen the benefits of AI integration in the workplace. They argue AI could enhance productivity, create new job opportunities, and improve work-life balance.
Video of former President Barack Obama escorting President Joe Biden off stage at a high-profile fundraiser is igniting conversations on social media about Biden's regular gaffes and confusion. The main themes revolve around concerns about Biden’s health, political strategies, and broader societal and institutional implications.
Many users are expressing alarm at President Joe Biden’s recurring moments of confusion or freezing on stage. More Americans are viewing these increasingly frequent episodes as a clear sign of his deteriorating health. The sentiment that Biden cannot be responsible for running the country is growing.
Discussions frequently reference Biden’s age and present it as a critical issue that impacts his capacity to govern. Sentiment is often inflammatory, highlighting a sense of urgency and alarm. There is also frequent mockery, memes, and brutal criticism, as Americans watch Biden's cognitive abilities erode in disbelief.
Biden’s supporters and those who dismiss the event downplay Obama leading the president off stage. These voices argue the incident was overblown by political opponents and media seeking to distort the narrative for sensationalism. They deflect, highlighting Biden’s accomplishments and capabilities, suggesting the short video clip does not reflect his overall performance and leadership.
Blue Collar Versus Tinsel Town
Another trend in the discussion is the increasing association of the Democratic Party and its key figures, including Obama and Biden, with Hollywood elites. This fundraiser, which featured high-profile celebrities like George Clooney and Julia Roberts, has resulted in criticism about the Democratic Party being out of touch with ordinary Americans. Social media posts imply a growing discontent with what some perceive as liberal elites' ignorance of the challenges everyday citizens face.
There is also a resurgence of the long-standing political rhetoric portraying leftist ideologies as communistic or socialistic. Some take the opportunity to paint Democratic leadership and their policies as fundamentally un-American or destructive.
These conversations often assert Democrats are utilizing manipulative strategies, like including amnesty for illegal immigrants and mass propaganda through mainstream media, to secure electoral victories. Many even believe Biden has escaped serious problems like potential prosecution because of special treatment.
Trump Supporters Pounce
Furthermore, there is significant backlash when people compare Biden to former President Donald Trump. Trump's supporters are leveraging this incident to emphasize their belief in Trump’s competency and leadership strengths. They say, despite his own controversies, Trump represents a more robust and capable alternative to Biden.
There are also comparisons between the fundraising efficacy of both political figures. Many point out that, despite glitzy Biden fundraisers and Trump's legal woes, Trump’s campaign is generating substantial grassroots financial support from many small donation donors. This draws a stark contrast with the Hollywood-centered donations for Biden.
Lastly, a segment of voters are focusing on the broader societal consequences of current political actions. They argue Biden’s administration, perceived as aligned with extreme liberal policies, is making the United States vulnerable to internal and external threats.
Concerns about border security, perceived leniency towards illegal immigrants, and an alleged erosion of American values are frequently mentioned. This fuels a broader narrative of an existential crisis facing the nation, with Biden depicted as a figurehead in a larger ideological battle.
Recent viral reporting is alerting Americans about illegal aliens in 49 states being given voter registration forms without requiring proof of citizenship. MIG Reports studied online reactions to the news and Americans are reacting strongly and mostly negatively.
Illegal Immigrants Register to Vote
The discourse on this subject is highly polarized, like most political conversations in America. Conservatives express concern over election integrity and illegals being allowed to register to vote. Liberals dismiss these concerns as politically motivated fearmongering.
Conservative Concerns
Voters on the right believe illegal immigrants voting would dilute legitimate votes. They argue normalizing illegal immigrant votes is a strategy of the left to get unearned votes. If illegal aliens are allowed to vote, most Republicans would view it as blatant election cheating by Democrats and a violation of America’s sovereignty as a country.
Conservatives place emphasis on voting irregularities and election integrity suspicions, particularly in Democratic areas like Fulton County, Georgia. Many conservatives fear rampant election fraud and call for stricter voter ID laws. They see legislative responses like the SAVE Act as necessary to protect democracy.
Liberal Rebuttals
Democrats and liberals claim widespread illegal voting is a myth perpetuated by Republicans. They view these claims as a strategy to justify restrictive voting laws, which they say would affect minority communities.
Social Media and Distrust
There is deep polarization and intense political rivalries on social media. Discussions involve political figures, historical grievances, and legal battles over election interference. Many people make accusations of corruption and election cheating cover-ups, leading to a climate of suspicion.
Broader Patterns
There is rampant distrust towards mainstream media and government officials.
Electoral legitimacy is a hotly contested issue and is especially tied to partisan debates.
The discourse reflects a mix of alarm, distrust, and political maneuvering.
Election Integrity
Many Americans want to focus on securing elections. There are references to alleged fraud and manipulation, especially in the 2020 presidential election. Some mention fraudulent ballots and voter irregularities in states like Michigan and Georgia.
Political Polarization
There is frequent accusatory language between political parties. Republicans blame Democrats for allegedly enabling election fraud. And Democrats say Republicans spread false claims and incite distrust among the electorate.
The two sides debate whether political figures like Donald Trump or Hillary Clinton should face consequences for election-related crimes. There are accusations of bias in law enforcement and legal systems.
Mistrust of Governmental Institutions
There are intense debates over the potential illegitimacy of 2024 election results. Some express concerns about voting machine manipulation, absentee ballots, and mail-in voting. There are calls for a return to manual, paper-based voting methods.
Sentiment Trends
Predominantly Negative and Distrustful
There is widespread skepticism regarding the fairness and transparency of elections. Many voters accuse the opposing Party of voter fraud and corruption. People online use charged and aggressive language reflecting frustrations and fears.
Many Americans also direct at individuals, political parties, and government officials involved in election oversight.
Defensiveness and Dismissal
Democrats tend to make arguments that election fraud claims are unfounded and destabilize democratic processes. They believe in the fundamental soundness of the electoral system and criticize claims of corruption.
Overall, it seems many voters lack confidence in the prospect of a "free and fair" election in 2024. Many people call for significant electoral reforms to restore trust.
Donald Trump's comments last week promising to eliminate taxes on tips got voters talking, showing mixed support across the political spectrum. Overall, the idea of exempting tips from income tax is generally well-received. This is especially true for those directly affected—restaurant and hospitality workers—who stand to keep more of their hard-earned money.
Trump’s promise to reduce working-class tax burdens is getting enthusiastic support within this voter group. They feel this tax relief would directly benefit their day-to-day lives. However, detractors argue the plan could reduce federal revenues and contribute to budget deficits unless offset by other measures.
Online discussions about economic and tax policies reflect broader concerns about the economy, with many people comparing conditions under Trump and Biden. Some argue the economy was better under Trump's administration, citing lower inflation rates, lower energy and food prices, and a more robust job market. They believe Trump's tax cuts had a positive impact on economic growth and hope similar policies will revive the economy again.
Trump’s approval on taxes remained relatively steady before and after his comments on eliminating tip taxes.
However, his approval regarding “low income” jumped from 47% to 49% after his comments.
Demographic Reactions
Tip Workers
Service industry workers, who are the primary beneficiaries of this proposal, respond positively across the political spectrum. For many servers, bartenders, and other tipped employees, eliminating taxes on tips translates into a direct increase in take-home pay. This demographic appreciates the tangible impact on their daily lives, which could mean a more stable financial situation and less stress regarding tax filings.
Income Groups
Among the lower economic classes, Trump's proposal is largely welcomed. Despite political affiliations, individuals in these classes tend to focus on the increased disposable income, which would help cover living expenses and potentially mitigate financial instability.
Middle-class voters also express cautious optimism. Some see it as a necessary relief amid current economic challenges, such as inflation and high living costs. However, others worry about the broader economic ramifications which might lead to higher prices for essential goods.
Wealthier individuals, who may not be directly affected by the change, may still support it to boost consumer spending and morale within the service industry. Although some criticize it as a short-term political maneuver with uncertain long-term fiscal implications.
Age Groups
Demographic factors such as age and race also influence opinions. Younger voters, especially those working through college or in entry-level service positions, invite immediate personal benefits. Nevertheless, many still generally align with a broader generational stance that favors progressive taxation and public welfare.
Minorities
Minority communities, who are overrepresented in lower-wage service jobs, appreciate the direct financial relief. But they also remain cautious about the long-term impacts and hope for comprehensive wage reforms which align with Democratic tax platforms.
Trump Supporters Support No Tip Taxes
Republicans and Trump Supporters largely view his proposal to eliminate taxes on tips as a positive step. They believe it would benefit the working class, especially those in the hospitality and service industries who rely heavily on tips. These supporters say it would provide immediate financial relief, thus increasing disposable income for millions of Americans.
Usually Republicans, this group highlights the overall economic environment during Trump's previous term with lower inflation, energy independence, and lower taxes. They view past results as indicative of the future potential success of similar policies.
There is also a related conversation around Trump’s proposal to replace all income tax with increased tariffs. This plan to compensate lost tax revenues get support from those who believe it would strengthen domestic industries and ultimately benefit American workers.
Democrats Don’t Want to Lose Tax Revenue
Most Democrats commenting on Trump’s proposal express significant concern over the long-term economic impacts of eliminating taxes on tips. They also fear replacing all income tax with tariffs could spark inflation, decrease consumption, and potentially lead to a recession.
Critics feel lower taxes would exacerbate income inequality and create adverse effects on social security and Medicare funding, which are typically supported by tax revenues.
Some progressive Democrats and service industry workers, who are typically loyal to the Democratic Party, acknowledge that eliminating taxes on tips could offer genuine financial benefits to low-income workers. But these voters often couch their approval in broader critiques of Trump’s overall economic policies. They hedge by saying such isolated tax cuts fail to address systemic financial inequalities.
More mainstream and centrist Democrats were generally skeptical, viewing the proposal as a populist measure designed to garner quick support. They don’t believe Trump has real plans for a thorough solution to larger economic issues facing workers.
Anti-Trump voters say, while beneficial on its face, this tax change might not compensate for his other policies they view as detrimental to low-income and middle-class Americans. They cite programs like social services and healthcare, which they believe Trump wants to defund.