Prior to the RNC, many stream media—mostly from pro-immigration or establishment outlets—published stories about growing support for restricting, shrinking immigration and even mass deportations. The discourse around mass deportations, specifically the notion of deporting millions of illegal aliens, remains a volatile and contentious subject in contemporary American politics.

In the political sphere, support for mass deportations manifests predominantly within conservative and Republican constituencies. Advocates argue mass deportations are essential for upholding the rule of law, protecting American jobs, and ensuring national security.

They characterize current Biden’s immigration policies as dangerously lax, suggesting they fuel crime waves, drain public resources, and threaten social stability. Biden critics often point to specific crimes allegedly committed by illegal aliens as evidence of the danger.

Conversely, opponents of mass deportations, primarily from progressive and Democratic circles, emphasize compassion. They argue mass deportations would lead to significant human suffering, tearing families apart and disrupting communities.

Those against deportation highlight the contributions of illegal immigrants to the economy. They say many of them work in vital sectors and pay taxes. They also criticize the portrayal of immigrants as a source of crime and economic burden. Instead, they assert deportations narratives are based on exaggerated or misleading information.

Trending Immigration Topics

Crime and Safety

Concerns about criminal activities, particularly heinously violent ones, often involving illegal immigrants, are frequent concerns. Incidents involving violence, rape, murder, and property crimes are used to justify calls for stricter immigration policies and mass deportations.

Economic Impact

Debates about the economic costs of illegal immigration cover public spending on healthcare, education, and housing, and the impact on wage levels and job availability for American citizens. Proponents of mass deportation often argue illegal immigrants strain public resources and drive down wages. Opponents highlight the economic contributions and potential taxes paid by illegals.

National Security and Law Enforcement

Issues of national security are central, with some arguing the open border is enabling terrorists and criminals to enter the country. Discussions also focus on the effectiveness and moral implications of enforcement actions, such as those by ICE and the Border Patrol, and the adequacy of current security measures.

Ethical and Humanitarian Concerns

There is a robust debate about the moral and human rights implications of mass deportations. Critics argue these actions would result in widespread human suffering and advocate for a more compassionate approach to immigration reform, including path-to-citizenship initiatives.

Politicization of Immigration

Many argue immigration is being used as a political tool to gain voter support. Accusations are made against both parties. Democratic policies are seen as attempts to increase their voter base through amnesty programs. Republican rhetoric around immigration is perceived as a strategy to energize their base with tough-on-crime, national security stances.

Discussion Trends

There is a consistently high volume of conversations about the U.S. border. This is especially true for recurring and publicized crimes involving illegal immigrants, policy announcements by the Biden administration, and high-profile political debates. Social media platforms often serve as echo chambers, amplifying partisan viewpoints and sometimes spreading misinformation.

Sentiment trends reveal a deeply polarized landscape. On the right, sentiment is often characterized by frustration, fear, and anger, with posts frequently emphasizing threats to safety and economic security. On the left, sentiments lean towards empathy, concern for human rights, and criticism of what is considered xenophobic rhetoric. Both sides also show a clear distrust of the opposing narrative, exacerbating the divide.