MIG Reports analysis of voter discussions shows two consistently pressing and connected topics for Americans in the 2024 election—the economy, and immigration.

Their interrelation often focuses on:

• How immigration impacts economic discussions
• How the economy impacts immigration discussions

The intent of this study is to determine trending themes, parallels, or anomalies from conversations and how they impact each other based on framing. Some key findings include:

• Sentiment is generally negative on the economy and the border.
• The total volume of discussions is greater regarding the economy than immigration.
• Discussions are often intertwined but the economy features more frequently in immigration discussions.
• Positive views of immigration are only present in conversations exclusively focused on the border.

Disparity in Volume and Focus

Analysis of two data sets includes conversations about the economy which mention immigration and conversations about immigration which mention the economy. Generally, economic concerns are discussed in larger volume than immigration issues. While there is similarity across swing state and national conversations, the economy is more often discussed within immigration conversations than immigration is discussed within economic conversations.

When discussion is focused on the economy, immigration is sometimes brought up as a negative pressure on economic problems—exacerbating inflation and taxation. When general discussion is on immigration, voters again emphasize negative economic impacts. But they often mention things like job competition, strain on social services, and crime. The discussions have less breadth and depth, however, compared to economic-centric discussions.

Consistency in Themes but Different Emphases

The same themes of inflation, job competition, taxation, and government spending recur in both sets of analyses. This suggests consistent voter concern about the economic implications of immigration. However, the emphasis differs in each type of discussion.

In the economic-centric discussions, these themes are explored in greater detail and connected to broader economic policy critiques. In immigration-centric discussions themes concentrate on how immigration exacerbates these economic issues. There is often a focus on the immediate and tangible impacts of unchecked immigration like job availability and social service burdens.

Within immigration-focused discussions there is a stronger narrative around security and crime. This is especially pronounced in data sets from swing states and presidential election conversations. Crime and safety, while present in economic discussions, is pronounced when immigration is the primary topic. This suggests deeper public anxieties about safety that Americans directly associate with increased immigration.

Mostly Negative Sentiment, Some Positive Support

Across both sets of analyses, sentiment remains largely negative toward current economic and immigration policies. However, there is relatively more support or positive framing in the immigration-centric discussions compared to the economic-centric ones.

While the immigration-focused discussions still emphasize concerns about job competition, strain on social services, and crime, there is a noticeable viewpoint which recognizes potential economic benefits of immigration.

Immigration supporters argue immigrants fill labor gaps, contribute to economic growth, and increase tax revenues. While these supportive views are sometimes expressed in immigration-centric discussions, they are still overshadowed by the dominant negative sentiment.

In economy-centric conversations, views of immigration are uniformly critical, with almost no mention of positive impacts. Here, immigration is more frequently viewed as a significant contributing factor to economic problems.

Polarization and Political Divide

Political polarization present in economic discussions is also evident in immigration discussions, though with sharper contrasts. When immigration is the focal point, the divide between supporters of stricter immigration policies and advocates for reform is more pronounced.

This contentious dialogue emerges regarding immigration, while the economy is less divisive—though still mostly negative. In the data set comprised of election-related topics, immigration discussions are often framed within a broader political narrative. These conversations emphasize past and present immigration policies, directly comparing Donald Trump and Kamala Harris.

Economy Nested Within Immigration

The immigration-focused analysis shows voter conversations narrow down on specific economic impacts like job competition and welfare costs. They delve less frequently into broader economic trends such as long-term fiscal responsibility or overall economic growth. This indicates the economy is such an overarching concern for Americans that it often figures into their discussions about immigration.

On Aug. 19, DHS OIG published a management alert regarding the inability of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to effectively monitor unaccompanied migrant children (UCs) released from the custody of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The report raises significant concerns about children's safety and the risk of trafficking for the 290,000 missing children.

MIG Reports analysis shows significant public concern in reaction to the report. Discussion particularly focuses on issues of human trafficking, border security, and immigration policies.

Key insights from American voter conversations include:

• Trafficking Concerns: The highest level of concern comes from discussions directly linking the Biden administration to the trafficking crisis. 75% of voters blame the current leadership and 75% express a strong desire for new leadership.
• Border Security Issues: Across multiple subtopics, about 70% of discussions express frustration with current border security policies, blaming them for exacerbating trafficking issues and missing children. This sentiment is consistent across different demographics, with a strong call for stricter immigration policies.
• Swing States and Political Impact: In swing states, 65% of discussions link trafficking with missing children, and 55% express a preference for a leadership shift. This suggests concerns may significantly influence electoral outcomes, with clear advocacy for returning to Trump-era immigration policies.

290,000 children are missing due to the open border policies of Biden, Harris & Gallego.

My heart breaks for these poor babies. https://t.co/SPzsvAZywn

— Kari Lake (@KariLake) August 21, 2024

Strong Discontent with Current Leadership

About 75% of people discussing trafficking issues directly blame the Biden-Harris administration for exacerbating the crisis. They refer to human trafficking, missing children, and cartel activity in conversations.

Dissatisfaction is not confined to one area; it spans across various aspects of border policy, with 70% of discussions in border-related topics also reflecting anger and frustration towards the administration. Around 70% are calling for stricter border controls and a change in leadership.

Many also criticize VP Harris for calling out Trump’s DHS for losing track of 545 children when, on her watch, nearly 300,000 have gone missing.

UPDATED: In 2020, Kamala Harris said DHS not being able to find the parents of 545 children was "outrageous and a stain on our national character."

Now under Border Czar Kamala Harris's leadership, DHS has lost nearly 300,000 illegal migrant children.

That's a 54,945.9%… pic.twitter.com/Q84WeB9hSc

— Steve Guest (@SteveGuest) August 20, 2024

Calls for Political Change and Stricter Policies

In addition to the general discontent, there is a strong push for political change. Roughly 65% of voters advocate for a return to Trump-era immigration policies, including measures like "Remain in Mexico" and increased deportations.

Around 60% link the missing children directly to human trafficking. This trend continues in broader conversations about border security, where 70% hold the administration responsible for the ongoing crisis and express a desire for a political shift.

Swing States and Electoral Impact

The sentiment in swing states mirrors national discussion, with a significant focus on the connection between missing children and trafficking. About 65% of voters in swing states link these issues and 55% want new political leadership.

While there is some skepticism—around 30% attributing the problem to broader social or economic factors rather than directly linking it to trafficking—the majority sentiment is one of urgency and a desire for accountability.

When considering the electoral impact, approximately 70% of believe the current administration's policies have failed to secure the border, which they see as contributing to the trafficking crisis. About 65% of discussions support Trump as the candidate best suited to restore order and security.

The overall mood is overwhelmingly negative, with 80% of conversations expressing anger and frustration.

Urgent Policy & Personnel Change Required

The overarching theme is deep dissatisfaction with the current administration's handling of border security and immigration. MIG Reports weighted analysis reveals approximately 66.9% of voters desire political change. Many advocate for a return to stricter border controls. There is a clear demand for leadership that prioritizes the safety and security of vulnerable populations, particularly children, who are seen as being at the greatest risk.

The chart shows that when more people are unhappy or frustrated with how things are being handled—especially regarding issues like trafficking and border security—they are more likely to want new leaders or changes in policies. Each point on the plot represents a different topic, and the closer a point is to the top right corner, the stronger the link between dissatisfaction (negative sentiment) and the push for political change.

The scatter plot's points, representing high levels of negative sentiment and advocacy for change, are closely tied to discussions involving these keywords. The frequent appearance of terms like "human trafficking," "missing children," "open borders," and criticism of Kamala Harris in connection with these issues indicates the more these topics are discussed, the stronger the call for political change becomes. This trend is consistently reflected across the topics analyzed.

MIG Reports analysis shows the political landscape in Nevada emphasizes economic stability, housing affordability, and immigration policies. As the state grapples with rising inflation and the increasing cost of living, residents express dissatisfaction with the Biden-Harris administration. Discussions reveal a strong focus on the impact of government policies on everyday life. Voters seek leadership at the national and state level that can address their concerns and provide tangible solutions to pressing problems.

Border Security

The border is a high priority and highly charged conversation in Nevada. Approximately 70% of the discussion is negative toward the state of illegal immigration under Biden-Harris. The predominant concern is that "open borders" are increasing crime rates, economic strain, and a diversion of resources away from American citizens to support illegal immigrants.

Around 60% of Nevadans in the conversation express frustration with misallocation of taxpayer dollars. They believe tax funds should prioritize veterans and the homeless over illegal immigrants. Additionally, 65% of the conversations explicitly link illegal immigration to rising crime rates, further fueling the demand for stricter border controls.

Political Ideologies

Around 75% of comments show negative sentiment toward Democratic policies, often labeling them as socialist or communist. These discussions emphasize a fear that the Democratic Party has strayed too far from traditional American values. Roughly 65% of the discourse focuses on the idea that supporting Democratic candidates equates to endorsing socialism or communism.

On the other hand, Republican ideals, particularly those associated with Trump, receive a more favorable reception in Nevada. About 60% of the discussion supports Trump, expressing appreciation for his policies and the desire to return to traditional conservative values.

Economy

Housing

Housing is a critical issue in Nevada, with about 55% of the conversations expressing frustration over the lack of affordable housing. Rising costs, stagnant wages, and inflation are frequently mentioned, with 30% of discussions focusing on affordability concerns. Around 25% in Nevada are critical of current government policies, particularly those under Democratic leadership, which are seen as ineffective in addressing the housing crisis.

Economic Issues

The economic discourse in Nevada is dominated by concerns over inflation and government spending. Approximately 75% convey frustration with the Biden administration's economic policies. Nevadans blame Democrats for rising costs and wage stagnation. Inflation is the most frequently mentioned issue, appearing in about 40% of the discussion. Many participants criticize the Inflation Reduction Act, arguing it has worsened, rather than improved inflation.

Fiscal Policy

The sentiment toward fiscal policy is predominantly negative, with 72% expressing dissatisfaction with government spending and its impact on inflation. The perception that Democratic policies, particularly those under the Biden-Harris administration, have led to economic hardship is a recurring theme. Many participants advocate for a shift in leadership, with 10% of the comments emphasizing a desire to return to Trump-era policies that are perceived to have been more economically beneficial.

Inflation

Inflation is a major concern for Nevada voters, with 60% of the discussions linking rising prices directly to the policies of the Biden administration. There is a strong sense of discontent, with 45% of the conversations focusing specifically on food inflation, associating it with broader economic mismanagement. Proposed solutions, such as price controls suggested by Harris, receive substantial criticism, with 40% of the discourse arguing these measures would exacerbate the problem rather than solve it.

Nomination

Kamala Harris’s nomination also generates controversy in Nevada, with criticism of the Democratic Party's handling of primaries. About 62% of the comments express displeasure with how Kamala Harris secured the nomination. Voters say the lack of a primary undermines democratic principles.

Negative sentiment is also present regarding the Democratic National Convention, where 55% of the comments criticize the process as undemocratic and disconnected from voter interests. In contrast, around 40% of the commentary in Nevada expresses positive sentiment toward Republican candidates, framing them as more aligned with voter engagement and traditional political values.

All Entities

Across the board, discussions involving key political figures like Kamala Harris and Donald Trump are highly polarized. Housing and economic challenges are the most frequently mentioned issues, with approximately 30% of the conversations focusing on inflation and the cost of living. Election integrity is also a significant concern, with 20% of the discourse centered on skepticism about the legitimacy of past and future elections. The overall sentiment towards Democratic figures, particularly Harris, is predominantly negative, with 15% of the discussions highlighting perceived failures in leadership.

The discussion around border security and immigration remains deeply polarized among American voters. Conversations about the border, particularly focusing on presidential candidates Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, dominate overall public discourse, indicating it’s a top concern. MIG Reports analysis highlights significant differences in public perception and sentiment towards the Republican and Democratic nominees.

An analysis of public sentiment reveals stark differences in support for Kamala Harris and Donald Trump on border security:

• Voter sentiment against open borders is strong, averaging 66%.
• Harris's support averages around 34%, with only 20% support in broader discussions and up to 67% among Democrats.
• Trump enjoys consistent support, averaging 69% across various groups.
• He has particularly strong backing from his base—85% support him on border security.
  

Kamala Harris

Kamala Harris faces a complex and often critical landscape as voters react to her stance on border security. MIG Reports analysis indicates that across national conversations, a large portion of Americans criticize Harris's approach to immigration. Only a minority of supports express agreement or positivity.

Voter sentiment is consistent across broader analyses from Democrat-leaning conversations. This group prioritizes compassion and humane treatment for immigrants, leading to approval for her open border policies.

However, many conversations among Democrats suggest dissatisfaction with the outcomes of her policies, particularly in managing border programs effectively. There is a divide within the Democratic base, where support for Harris’s lenient approach to immigration is mixed. Many feel her policies do not adequately address the complexities of border security.

Most Americans want effective immigration management with accountability and tangible results. Harris's role as a leader and as "border czar" positions her as a figure of both hope and frustration within her party. Responding to criticisms of her administration on border security will likely pose a hurdle for her campaign.

Many Republicans criticize Harris and Democrats’ hypocrisy, pointing out the DNC has strong security and even physical walls. They say Democrats want anyone to enter the country without limitation but protect themselves behind walls and fences.

Watch as Steve tries to help illegal migrant enter the DNC convention, you can image how it went. pic.twitter.com/RdrI0jIZvW

— @amuse (@amuse) August 21, 2024

Donald Trump

Donald Trump remains a dominant figure in border security conversations, particularly among Republicans. MIG Reports analysis shows overwhelming support for Trump’s hardline stance against open borders and his advocacy for stringent immigration controls.

Trump’s policies, such as the "Remain in Mexico" program, receive strong approval from his base. They view strong measures as essential to protecting national security and upholding the integrity of the immigration system.

Republican voters are strongly aligned with Trump's approach of prioritizing enforcement and deterrence. Theu believe strong border security is synonymous with protecting American jobs and maintaining public safety.

Within party, Trump has overwhelming support. This contrasts with waning support among Democrats for their own leadership. Analysis suggests some Independents and disaffected Democrats are bolstering Trump’s broader support. His consistent message of strict border control and opposition to open borders resonates deeply with Americans who want safety and sovereignty.

This support is not only a reflection of Trump’s influence but an indication of voter priorities as border security remains a top concern. These discussions illustrate the extent to which Trump’s stance on immigration continues to shape and mobilize his base, making him a central figure in the ongoing national debate on border security.

A recent Gallup poll of American approval regarding immigration levels from 1965 through the present determined:

• 55% of Americans today want immigration reduced
• 25% want immigration levels to stay the same
• 16% want an increase in immigration numbers.

MIG Reports analysis of voter conversations online not only confirm polling data but reveal why Americans hold their current perspectives on immigration

Weighted Analysis

MIG Reports analysis weighs total discussion volume and approval percentages of immigration preferences by calculating the influence of each group's preference—decreased, maintained, or increased immigration—across multiple data sets.

By considering both the percentage of preferences within each data set and the total discussion volume of each set, the analysis determined the overall weighted preference.

MIG Reports analysis shows:

• 56.50% of voters nationally favor decreased immigration
• 26.22% favor maintaining current levels
• 17.29% favor increased immigration
• Additionally, in swing states, around 70% of conversations favor reducing immigration.
• In national conversations about the presidential election, 60% favor reducing immigration.
  

Why a Majority Wants Reduced Immigration

The predominant preference in voters discussions favors decreased immigration. This is driven by a variety of concerns revolving around national security, economic stability, and public safety.

Many Americans voice deep apprehension about illegal immigration as a major threat to the country’s security and economic well-being. Voters talk about reducing or stopping illegal immigration because they believe:

• Illegal immigrants contribute to rising crime rates: Discussions mention gang activity and violent crimes linked to immigrant groups, particularly in urban areas.
• An open order exacerbates economic challenges: People discuss job scarcity and inflation, arguing the influx of illegal migrants strains public resources like social services, healthcare, and housing.

There is widespread frustration and distrust toward Biden-Harris immigration policies, which voters view as too lenient. People direct their anger toward Democrats who they believe have failed to secure the border. Discussions emphasize a sense of urgency and alarm, with many advocating for stricter controls and even mass deportation policies.

Reasons for Maintaining Immigration Levels

Around 25% of voters in MIG Reports data advocate for maintaining current levels of immigration. They emphasize the need for a balanced and structured approach to the border. These voters typically argue that, while reforms may be necessary, a drastic reduction in immigration is not the solution.

Immigration advocates point out the importance of legal immigration pathways, highlighting the contributions of immigrants to the economy and society. They focus on the value of diversity and the critical role immigrant workers play in the economy. Here, they mention industries that rely heavily on labor from immigrant populations.

There is also a strong humanitarian element in these discussions. Voters want asylum seekers to have human rights protections. They argue a well-regulated immigration system can benefit the country by bringing in individuals who contribute positively to communities and the economy. Sentiments in this group are generally more optimistic and focused on the potential for policy reforms that balance security concerns with the need for inclusivity and economic growth.

A Minority Want Increased Immigration

The smallest segment of Americans supports increasing immigration levels. This view is driven primarily by humanitarian concerns and the belief in the positive impact of diversity. Often progressives and libertarians, this group focuses on America's moral and ethical responsibility to provide refuge to those fleeing persecution and violence.

Increased immigration proponents say the United States, as a nation built on immigration, has a duty to welcome those seeking better lives and to support their integration into society. They also emphasize the economic benefits of immigration, particularly the need for a growing workforce to sustain economic growth and address labor shortages in certain industries.

Advocates point out immigrants bring a wealth of skills, perspectives, and cultural richness which contributes to the vitality of the nation. Discussions include calls for comprehensive immigration reform that expands opportunities for legal immigration and strengthens support systems for newcomers. The tone in this group is often one of compassion and a belief in the long-term benefits of a more open and inclusive immigration policy.

Americans are feeling the pressure of drastically rising car insurance rates, particularly in addition to broader economic struggles. MIG Reports analysis shows online conversations predominantly focus on inflation, taxation policies, and the failures of Biden-Harris polices, including illegal immigration.

Auto insurance rates in the US have increased by 42% over the past 2 years.

That's the biggest 2-year spike since 1977, per Charlie Bilello.

— unusual_whales (@unusual_whales) June 17, 2024

Inflation Concerns

The top keywords in car insurance discussions include inflation, taxes, premium, cost of living, and affordability. Americans voice concern about sharply increasing costs of living, which directly influence their ability to afford essential services like car insurance. Many people vent frustrations about how rising consumer prices affect their overall financial situation. There is widespread sentiment of anxiety about economic stability.

Voters connect their personal finances to broader political themes, citing government spending and tax policies as roots of inflation. This is a constant topic of conversation online, as people express deep frustrations. They discuss the financial strain on families, emphasizing the current trajectory of the economy is untenable for working-class Americans.

Voters Blame Democrats

Americans take critical tone toward government policies, particularly targeting the Biden administration and Democratic policies. People talk about policies like the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and other decisions that contribute to economic distress and debt, rather than easing it.

Voters are calling for accountability in government spending, angry about wasted tax dollars. Phrases like "kill us without killing us" signify the desperation many feel and the emotional weight of economic hardship. Inflation “kills” financial stability and livelihoods, impacts mental health and quality of life, and even causes direct physical harm in the worst of situations.

Criticism of the IRA links government actions to adverse economic consequences, framing policies as harmful to middle-class Americans. Distrust of leadership extends to discussions about tax burdens as people fear increased taxation on working individuals from Democrats who criticized Trump’s tax cuts.

Illegal immigration also receives blame as a secondary cause of inflation. People decry tax dollars being spent on unhelpful border programs, illegal immigrant welfare, and increased job competition. These wider pressures all contribute to higher costs for things like car insurance.

Immigration Concerns

Voters also discuss the impact of illegal immigration on national security and community safety, with some linking these issues to rising car insurance rates. They suggest illegal immigrants contribute to escalating crime rates and other societal challenges. This generates knock-on economic consequences such as rising car insurance rates.

Numerous states do not allow illegal immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses, which may also be a cause of increased insurance rates.

• Alabama
• Arizona
• Arkansas
• Florida
• Georgia
• Indiana
• Iowa
• Kansas
• Kentucky
• Louisiana
• Maine
• Michigan
• Mississippi
• Missouri
• Montana
• Nebraska
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Ohio
• Oklahoma
• Pennsylvania
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• Tennessee
• Texas
• West Virginia
• Wisconsin
• Wyoming

Many believe an increased number of uninsured drivers distributes the cost of covering uninsured accidents to those who do have insurance. With rising crimes among illegal immigrants who are in a new country and culture, language and education barriers can create greater risks on the road. For many voters, this remains a plausible contributor to their ballooning insurance costs.

Discussion trends indicate fears about immigration frequently intersect with anxieties about economic stability. While some participants do not directly link illegal immigration to the rising costs of car insurance, there is an implied connection in the broader context of economic worries.

People do associate economic stress with illegal immigration and strained public services. The sentiment suggests a belief that increased illegal immigration burdens local communities and safety resources. This contributes to a heightened risk environment which causes things like increased insurance premiums.

Online conversations suggest the issue of child trafficking is becoming politicized with partisan disagreements about Biden-Harris open borders policies. Voters express disgust at what is occurring at the border, viewing a leadership change as increasingly necessary. In states like Arizona, Republican Senate candidate Kari Lake is voicing urgent voter concerns about cartel activity and drug and child trafficking in a way that Democrats are not. This is gaining her approval among increasingly concerned Americans.

Kari Lake, Change Candidate

Kari Lake is a Republican running for Kyrsten Sinema’s Senate seat in Arizona. She is often mentioned in conversations about the border and child trafficking as someone who sincerely cares. Voter sentiment is overwhelmingly positive toward Lake on these issues as frustration with Democrats mounts.

Lake regularly speaks out about border issues voters prioritize, while her opponent, Ruben Gallego, is deafeningly silent.

.@KariLake: “The biggest Human Smuggling, Drug Trafficking, Child Trafficking operation is underway here in Arizona...

and our Government is partnering with the Cartels. Yes, I said that.”@BrandonStraka @RealWalkAway pic.twitter.com/bNuICYhduR

— Kari Lake (@KariLake) June 14, 2022

Voters believe in her commitment to implementing stronger border security measures that will protect children and combat cartel trafficking. Conversations mention her with phrases like “close the borders to prevent more human trafficking” and “protect children from all forms of abuse.” Voters in Arizona and nationwide support candidates like Kari Lake who promise stringent reforms.

Lake, who is known as a fighter who does not back down, uses this to her advantage on cartel and trafficking issues. People view her as dedicated, willing to fight, and genuinely caring. Public sentiment toward Lake's border efforts is overwhelmingly positive.

There is a strong belief that she prioritizes eradicating child trafficking, unlike her Democratic counterparts. Many convey appreciation for her vocal stance and proposed policies aimed at tackling this issue directly.

The narrative around Lake is one of hope and support, portraying her as a figure willing to take robust action where others have faltered. Discussions about Lake reveal optimism, portraying her as a proactive leader capable of implementing strong border policies Democrats are unwilling to enact.

Outrage and Urgency

Outrage dominates discussions about the Biden-Harris administration's border policies, particularly regarding negligence and dismissal of child trafficking. Voters regularly talk of “open borders,” voicing frustration with the administration’s unwillingness to enforce border security measures.

Americans accuse the administration of exacerbating drug trafficking, human trafficking—specifically child trafficking—by ignoring border laws. Sentiment is overwhelmingly negative, with criticism directed at Joe Biden and Kamala Harris in her role as "border czar."

Accusations of incompetence and failure dominate conversations. People link Democrat failures to rises in crime, drug-related deaths, and unchecked border crossings. Sen. Chuck Grassley is drafting a Congressional Review Act to block the Biden-Harris administration from further enabling dangerous trafficking practices.

The connection between drug and human trafficking is another major concern. Voters express alarm and urgency about fentanyl and trafficking children streaming across the border via Mexican cartels.

An increasingly dangerous fentanyl supply in the U.S. generates fear across political lines as more Americans are impacted by drug addiction, overdose, and death. Many also attribute increased drug trafficking to lax border policies.

Rampant trafficking amplifies critiques of the Biden-Harris approach to border security. Voters demand more stringent actions to combat both drug and human trafficking.

DOJ sued HHS contractor Southwest Key 4 repeatedly turning blind eye 2 employee sex abuse of migrant children HHS’ UC Program Rule adds 2 the problem by weakening employee vetting / HHS even tried 2 block SW Key frm answering my oversight requests Congress must seek reforms

— Chuck Grassley (@ChuckGrassley) July 20, 2024

Failing Upward

Discussions reveal a broader theme of political responsibility and blame, with voters divided along partisan lines. Terms like "Democrat policies," "Republican solutions," and NGOs frequently appear. Politics divides many opinions on how best to address border issues and trafficking.

Partisan debate intensifies the emotional engagement and urgency in public discourse. Voters say they feel betrayed by the Biden-Harris administration's failures. Further complicating this issue is the involvement of non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Accusations emerge of taxpayer-funded groups enabling Democratic border policies voters are starting to abhor.

EXCLUSIVE: I spent four months investigating the web of NGOs facilitating the Biden Administration's migrant crisis. These taxpayer-funded groups are pulling in billions of dollars and lavishing themselves with salaries and bonuses.

Here's how they're cashing in. 🧵

— Maddie Rowley (@Maddie_Rowley_) May 13, 2024

Some discuss the broader socio-economic impacts of immigration policies like inflation and resource scarcity, adding to their frustration. This deepens negative sentiment toward VP Harris, whose role as the Border Czar places responsibility at her feet. A lack of evidence that she took any action and financial support for NGOs from the Biden-Harris administration, will likely worsen sentiment.

Recently, a story went viral about democratic vice-presidential nominee Tim Walz participating in an "Abolish ICE" march. This has caused discussion about his political stance on immigration issues. Overall sentiment online is negative, reflecting deep concerns about Walz’s views on the border crisis.

Tim Walz marched in an "Abolish ICE" protest in Minneapolis on June 30, 2018 https://t.co/Vi0ABaWsSa pic.twitter.com/YD7YenZbEz

— Matt Wolking (@MattWolking) August 9, 2024

The march, which occurred on June 30, 2018, was during the peak of the “Abolish ICE” movement. This suggests Walz may be influenced by the popular sentiments of leftist ideology.

Voters Want a Strong Border

Voter discussions consistently highlight Tim Walz’s beliefs, policies, and actions regarding immigration. People frequently use terms like open borders, sanctuary cities, illegal immigrants, and driver’s licenses for illegals in conversation about Walz. There is great apprehension about his support for providing state benefits to illegal immigrants at the expanse of citizens.

Most Americans view the Biden-Harris administration's open border policies as a threat to national security, prioritizing illegal immigrants over American citizens. This criticism extends to Walz who is increasingly viewed as supporting open borders.

Voters reference Walz’s comments about "ladder factories" to facilitate illegal crossings. People view his controversial comment about investing in ladders to circumvent a border wall as representative of his overall border stance.

Another critical conversation touches on the economic and social impact of Walz’s policies. Voters argue his approach drains state resources by using taxpayer funds for illegal immigrants while American citizens are crushed by inflation and taxes. Negative sentiment is often amplified by claims that his policies promote lawlessness and compromise public safety.

Americans view Walz’s record as governor, particularly his actions during the 2020 George Floyd protests, as evidence of his radically leftist stance. They speculate that actions like attending and Abolish ICE march reveals his inclination to be swayed by popular, radical leftist movements.

Critics claim Walz’s hesitation to deploy the National Guard in Minnesota allowed and escalated protester violence and destruction. This is further used to question his capability to handle a national immigration crisis as vice president.

Tim Walz: Not That Guy

Public sentiment toward Tim Walz as a potential vice president, particularly regarding his ability to manage the illegal immigration crisis, is overwhelmingly skeptical, if not outright hostile. Critics say his policies and actions epitomize the radical direction they believe the Democratic Party is taking. This narrative is bolstered by consistent claims that his policies favor illegal immigrants at the expense of national security, economic stability, and public safety.

There is a strong emphasis on the ideological divide Walz represents within the Democratic Party. Many discussions label him as a “radical leftist” or a “socialist,” accusing him of promoting extreme policies that alienate moderate voters.

Depiction of Walz as a radical are often paired with concerns about his proximity to far-left figures and policies who undermine traditional American values and governance. Sentiment trends indicate voters share negative opinions, painting Walz as unfit to handle national issues due to radicalism and past governance failures.

Viral tweets about parents who are unable to afford back-to-school supplies sparks conversations about economic issues, household finances, and school costs. MIG Reports shows parents are agitated and discussions are charged with political overtones in scrutinizing economic policies and their impacts.

34% of parents said they plan to take on debt to afford back to school supplies this year, and 16% said they plan to take on up to $1,000 in debt, per Credit Karma.

— unusual_whales (@unusual_whales) August 12, 2024

These discussions come within larger debates and worries about inflation, household expenses, debt, and the results of political policies. Younger voters are especially worried about their financial prospects.

The inability to afford back-to-school shopping is especially true for young parents – 39% of Gen Z and 37% of millennials.

Read more: https://t.co/IPL4WdZXol

— unusual_whales (@unusual_whales) August 9, 2024

New Conversation, Same Problem

Voters continue to compare the Trump’s economy with the Biden-Harris economy. Discussions juxtapose memories of low inflation, cheap gas, and secure borders during Trump's presidency against complaints of high inflation, unaffordable gas prices, and open borders under Democrats. This matches recent trends blaming Joe Bide and Kamala Harris for two key policies:

• The Inflation Reduction Act, which increases inflationary pressures
• Open borders and unchecked migration harming American families

Voter engagement on economic topics confirms existing political schisms in sentiment. In general, Americans are dissatisfied with the economy, but causes and solutions are often determined by political beliefs. Nostalgia for past times is acute in conversations about living costs and financial insecurity for middle-class and working families.

Low Income, Low Expectations

People are talking about the financial burden placed on low-income families who cannot afford back-to-school expenses. Americans worry about the rising cost of essential items and the consequences for families already struggling to make ends meet.

Government allocation of resources being disproportionately directed toward illegal immigrants is a point of contention. U.S. citizens say welfare programs offer free housing, healthcare, and monthly stipends to people who should not even be in the country. This causes resentment as local communities continue to sink deeper into debt.

Voters blame to government saying things like, "Americans they put into tents with their policies suffer.” Many feel the Biden-Harris administration cares more about people who enter the country illegally than its own citizens.

Parents describe their struggles, lamenting the unaffordability of necessities like backpacks and school clothes. These expenses force many families into credit card debt just to buy school supplies. Sentiment in these discussions is predominantly negative, reflecting frustration and financial strain.

• National Retail Federation data shows back-to-school costs for American families have increased from just under $700 in 2019 to nearly $900 in 2024.