MIG Reports analysis of online discussions surrounding DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and migrant deportations reveals deep public concerns. As debates unfold among voters, frustration, fear, and occasional defense of current policies pervade. The narrative in voter conversations is charged with tension, reflecting Americans’ growing anxiety over national security, economic impact, and community safety.

Discussions predominantly focus on the effectiveness of immigration policies, the handling of illegal and legal immigrants. People also discuss the broader implications for the upcoming election.

We are providing this humanitarian relief to Haitians already present in the United States given the conditions that existed in their home country as of June 3, 2024. In doing so, we are realizing the core objective of the TPS law and our obligation to fulfill it. https://t.co/yBwOPk7eWJ

— Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas (@SecMayorkas) June 28, 2024

There is a collective sentiment that Biden-Harris administration officials, particularly Secretary Mayorkas, has failed to adequately address border security. This feeling of dissatisfaction manifests in discussions of border security and immigration policies.

Sentiment leans heavily negative, with voters blaming current policies for harming U.S. interests. From fears about the economy to concerns about public safety, Americans express a belief that immigration policies favor undocumented individuals at the expense of citizens.

Border Security

Dominating much of the election dialogue, voters criticize perceived failures at the border. They emphasize increased crime, economic instability, and cultural threats posed by illegal immigrants. Americans use strong, often alarmist language to describe an "invasion" at the border.

Concerns for security blend with demands for stronger enforcement and mass deportations, positioning border control as a key issue in the election. There is clear urgency in conversations, with deep frustration over what voters see as weak enforcement and a lack of accountability.

Immigration

Immigration policies overlap with concerns about border security, shifting the conversation slightly toward critiques of policy and Mayorkas’s leadership. In both election and American-daily-life contexts, public frustration intensifies. Many question the allocation of taxpayer resources and the strain illegal immigrants place on local communities.

The debate is framed around national integrity, with participants calling for stricter deportation policies to preserve jobs, safety, and public welfare. Anger about recent news stories involving crimes committed by illegal immigrants spurs critiques of policy inefficacy, portraying Mayorkas as a central figure in the ongoing crisis.

Mass deportation is now popular.

A majority of registered voters favor “a new national program to deport all undocumented immigrants currently living in the U.S. illegally,” 62-38%.

👀 A MAJORITY OF HISPANICS favor mass deportation, 53-47%.

Per @CBSNews / @YouGovAmerica poll: pic.twitter.com/EsUaEsE4im

— Sahil Kapur (@sahilkapur) June 16, 2024

Language Patterns

The language Americans use highlights the nature of this polarized discourse. Third-person language dominates among those criticizing government officials and the impacts of immigration policies. This focus on accountability creates a tone of detachment and objectivity, with commenters often pointing fingers at Mayorkas and the Biden administration for perceived failings.

First-person narratives also surface, particularly in election-related contexts, where voters share personal stories of community impacts or emotional responses to the ongoing immigration debates. This first-person language serves to amplify the urgency and personal stakes tied to immigration policies, emphasizing how deeply these issues resonate with affected individuals.

Viral stories of Haitian migrants in Springfield, OH, over the weekend shed light on several alarming issues including claims that illegal immigrants are killing and eating local geese in park ponds. Voter conversations online illustrate a climate of fear, frustration, and political division. Sentiment about immigration is predominantly negative, with concerns about crime, resource allocation, and national security. The Biden-Harris administration is a primary target of blame, with many linking the perceived immigration crisis to larger systemic failures.

Haitian migrant wanders around the streets of Springfield, Ohio carrying a dead goose after killing it at a local park. pic.twitter.com/9JUy7qTSsp

— Oli London (@OliLondonTV) September 9, 2024

MIG Reports analysis of more than 4,500 posts shows 70-80% of voters voicing dissatisfaction with current immigration policies. Anger and fear dominate, particularly concerning increased crime rates and the strain on public resources attributed to the influx of undocumented immigrants.

A smaller segment, between10-20%, calls for empathy and a more structured, legal approach to immigration. The divide exists, but voters overwhelmingly demand stricter controls and enforcement. Voters, including Independents in critical swing states express negativity about the consequences of illegal immigration.

Ruining Our Society

Language in election-related discussions on immigration and border issues tends to be highly politicized and accusatory. Voters frequently connect immigration to broader political concerns like election fraud, illegal voting, and the erosion of democratic integrity.

The Biden-Harris administration gets blame for enabling illegal immigration. Americans are frustrated over the failure of the government to protect citizens. These discussions emphasize the economic burden placed on taxpayers and highlight the belief that undocumented immigrants are receiving preferential treatment over American citizens, especially veterans.

Immigration-focused conversations focus on crime, safety, and resource allocation within local communities. People voice concerns about public safety, with many associating immigrants—particularly Haitians—with rising crime rates, including violent offenses. The call for mass deportations and a return to stricter immigration policies underscores a strong desire for action. The language here, while still politically charged, is more rooted in fear for personal safety and the welfare of local communities.

Ruining Our Lives

One of the most prominent themes across both election and migration-focused discussions is the perceived competition for resources. Americans frequently express resentment that public housing, healthcare, and other social services are being diverted away from American citizens in favor of illegal immigrants. Sentiment is often framed as a betrayal by the government. Voters believe leaders prioritize illegal migrant needs over those of vulnerable citizen populations, such as veterans and low-income households.

Nevertheless, They Persist

Despite the overwhelming negativity, a small group advocates for a more humane approach to immigration. These voices, though often drowned out by the dominant narrative of fear and frustration, call for legal pathways to citizenship and fair treatment for immigrants seeking better lives. They claim immigration policy should balance national security concerns with compassion and respect for human rights, reflecting a broader debate on how the country should manage its borders.

Independent and undecided voters are discussing Kamala Harris’s presidential campaign, with indications toward their voting preferences. Conversations largely focus on key topics like border security, economic issues, and Harris’s leadership qualities. These all shape the electorate's opinion as voters weigh their options in the upcoming election. This analysis synthesizes thematic sentiments, identifying critical voter concerns and their potential impact on Harris's campaign.

Border and Economy Still Reign

Voters prioritize border security and economic issues, with an overwhelmingly negative sentiment toward Harris’s policies and performance. Independents and undecided voters express significant dissatisfaction with her approach to immigration, border policies, and the economy.

Sentiments about Harris’s leadership, integrity, and ability to address national concerns are also negative. Most voters focus on her failures and lack anything to say about potential successes.

Border Security

Border security issues generate frustration toward Harris and her policies. Voters characterize her as ineffective in curbing illegal immigration and protecting national security. Phrases like “open borders,” “illegal immigrants,” and “crime wave” appear frequently, highlighting fears of lawlessness and inadequate government action. Voters in border states often use first-person accounts, reflecting the personal impact of illegal immigration, amplifying a collective sense of vulnerability.

Many frame Harris as prioritizing the needs of migrants over American citizens. People use terms like "failed leadership" and "incompetent" to describe her role as the administration's "border czar." These critiques are not just political—they often carry emotional weight. Voters feel their security concerns are dismissed by Harris, increasing their ire. Nearly 85% of the conversation is negative, presenting a serious problem for Harris in winning undecided voters.

Economic Issues

Economic concerns, particularly inflation, are also a focal point in discussions about Harris’s campaign. Voters express fears about rising living costs saying inflation is crushing Americans and destroying the middle class. Many directly attribute inflation and high taxes to Harris’s policies, expressing frustration at her mismanagement. Harris's proposed tax hikes and government spending policies are especially contentious, with criticisms of “empty promises” or “insane government spending.”

Voter sentiment is negative, with 75% of the discussions expressing dissatisfaction. The focus often shifts between personal economic struggles—illustrated through first-person narratives—and broader critiques of Harris’s fiscal leadership. These concerns about economic instability make it clear that Harris faces an uphill battle in convincing critical voters that she can deliver economic improvements.

Ideology and Leadership

Ideology discussions often intersect with broader societal concerns. Many voters question Harris's political stance and policies. They suggests her policies are communist, socialist, or radical. This ideological framing suggests key voter groups fear her policies abandon traditional American values, contributing to voter distrust.

In terms of leadership, many criticize Harris as being part of the political establishment. They view her policies as a continuation of the Biden administration’s unpopular initiatives. Some voters compare her with Donald Trump, often seeing his leadership as a preferable alternative. Sentiment toward Harris’s leadership is largely negative, with many expressing disappointment and frustration with her governance.

National Security

National security and foreign policy—especially regarding the Israel-Hamas situation—post another problem for Harris. Voters express concern over what they perceive as Harris’s failure to prioritize U.S. interests abroad. They frequently refer to the Biden-Harris administration’s foreign policy as weak and ineffective.

The withdrawal from Afghanistan and perceived leniency toward terrorist groups further fuel these critiques. People say Democrats have failed strategies, often calling them a national embarrassment.

First-person narratives dominate discussions of national security as voters share their feelings of betrayal and disappointment. This personal connection to the issue highlights its emotional resonance, particularly among those who view Harris as compromising American safety.

Housing and Economic Stability

Housing affordability is also a cause for discontent. Independents and undecided voters are frustrated over rising property prices and housing shortages. They blame Harris for failing to address these concerns adequately, often tying the housing crisis to broader economic challenges like inflation and government spending. Around 80% of the housing discussion is negative with disappointment in Harris’s economic policies.

There is also a significant focus on illegal immigration’s impact on housing affordability. Many say Harris’s policies prioritize migrants over middle-class citizens. First-person stories of economic hardship and housing struggles provide powerful critiques of her leadership, indicating that these issues resonate deeply with the electorate.

Rep. Tony Gonzalez (R-TX) recently posted a segment of his appearance on CBS Face the Nation with the caption, “Illegal Immigration = BAD, Legal Immigration = GOOD.” After Gonzalez, the Republican incumbent, was squarely ratioed, MIG Reports analysis shows public sentiment voices strong opposition to all immigration.

Illegal immigration = BAD
Legal immigration = GOOD

If 🇺🇸 is to win the Space Race, lower the deficit, and grow our economy we need LEGAL, vetted, non-voting, non-citizen, workers! pic.twitter.com/dUAZRsGLmF

— Rep. Tony Gonzales (@RepTonyGonzales) September 1, 2024

Opposition manifests in heated debates where legal immigration frequently intersects with concerns about illegal immigration, national security, and economic stability. Analyzing these discussions provides insight into the prevailing attitudes and anxieties that shape public opinion as the nation heads toward critical electoral decisions.

Opposition to Current Policies

A significant majority of Americans voice dissatisfaction with the Biden-Harris approach to immigration, including legal immigration. Approximately 75% of the conversation expresses disapproval of Biden-Harris policies. These negative sentiments are based on current policies failing to protect national borders and imposing undue economic burdens on American taxpayers.

Conversations often conflate legal and illegal immigration, suggesting a widespread belief that current policies are too lenient and encourage illegal entry into the country. This leniency fuels calls for stricter immigration controls, including reductions or even moratoriums on new legal immigrants entering the United States.

Focus on National Security and Economic Impact

National security and economic concerns dominate discourse on legal immigration. Voters discuss border security, economic burdens associated with immigration, illegal aliens, and job security. For many voters, these issues are connected and at the forefront of public concern. Approximately 70% advocate for reduced immigration levels—legal or illegal.

These sentiments are driven by the belief that ongoing immigration could strain public resources, increase crime rates, and threaten job opportunities for American citizens. Voters are consistently negative, with many arguing current immigration policies fail to prioritize the safety and economic stability of the nation.

• In conversations, “moratorium is often brought up, with 78% of discussion advocating for reduced immigration.
• “National security” is another significant topic with 80% expressing a desire to reduce immigration.

Comparison of Harris and Trump Policies

Public discourse often contrasts the immigration policies of Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, with Harris's policies receiving substantial criticism. Around 65% of the discussion links Harris to lenient immigration policies, which many believe exacerbates existing problems.

Discussions about Trump are more favorable, particularly among conservative voters who view his approach to border security as more effective. These comparisons reveal an electorate which supports a return to the stricter policies of the Trump era.

Immigration as a Political Tool

Many view immigration, particularly illegal immigration, as a political tool which Harris uses to influence demographic voting patterns. This belief surfaces in about 60% of the discussion, reflecting broader concerns about the socio-political impacts of immigration.

Americans frequently voice concerns that immigrants, especially those who enter illegally, as burdens on public resources. They also discuss immigration as a threat to societal norms. Many suspect that Democrats use immigration, manipulating voters and metrics for political gain at the expense of national security and social cohesion.

Emotional and Linguistic Patterns

The language used in these discussions is notably emotional and personal. Voters frequently use first-person narratives, such as "I believe" and "we need," to express their personal stakes in the immigration debate. This use of first-person language creates a sense of urgency and personal investment in the outcome of immigration policies.

In contrast, third-person language is often employed to discuss political figures, particularly in a critical or accusatory manner. This linguistic pattern reflects a collective disillusionment with current leadership and a deep concern for the future of the nation in the face of perceived immigration challenges.

The recent surge in criminal activities by the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua in Aurora, Colorado has ignited a wave of public outrage. People express concern over unchecked illegal immigration, crime, and governance.

A "gang takeover" of apartment complexes in Aurora is at the center of discussion, causing local and national concern. There are reports of armed gang members controlling properties, engaging in criminal activities, and causing a surge in violence. Law enforcement has been forced to form special task forces to address the issue.

UPDATE: The city and Aurora Police Department, as previously stated, established a special task force in collaboration with other local, state and federal partners to specifically address concerns about Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua (TdA) and other criminal activity affecting… pic.twitter.com/ytAhIcBxy0

— Aurora Police Dept (@AuroraPD) August 28, 2024

Migrant gang criminal activities include intimidation, drug dealing, and potentially sex trafficking. The increase of this organized crime is sparking debate about immigration policies, local law enforcement's response, and the pressing issue of community safety.

As migrant gangs establish footholds in suburban American communities, residents feel fear, frustration, and political disillusionment. MIG Reports analysis shows rampant fear about safety, the border crisis, and government complicity.

Immigration

Concerns over illegal immigration and border security weigh Americans down. Many blame Biden-Harris policies for the rise of gangs like Tren de Aragua. The conversation frequently links the gang's presence in Aurora to what residents perceive as an open border, leading to a deterioration in community safety.

Sentiment is negative, with approximately 75% of the discussion expressing fear and frustration. The public narrative suggests the influx of illegal immigrants, facilitated by "open border" policies, is a direct threat to local safety and stability.

Crime

Gang activities in Aurora contribute strongly to widespread fear and concern over migrant crime overall. Americans highlight the gang's involvement in violent criminal activities, including human and drug trafficking, which has led to a surge in local crime rates.

Residents are angry and frustrated at what they see as a failure of law enforcement and local governance. Sentiment in conversations is overwhelmingly negative, with most of the discourse focused on stronger law enforcement and more effective community protections against gang violence.

NGOs

The current national political climate also shapes perceptions of local communities toward Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs). The negative sentiment toward NGOs often stems from broader ideological conflicts, particularly the belief that their practices align with liberal or progressive agendas. Critics argue NGO actions exacerbate illegal immigration, allowing violent offenders into their communities.

NGOs are perceived as extensions of the Biden-Harris administration, driving current immigration policies. Voters view them as tools used to implement and sustain open border policies.

Criticism of NGOs is not isolated to local conversations but widespread nationally, fomenting dissatisfaction with political leadership. Disapproval is heightened among those who feel NGOs prioritize ideological goals over community safety and social order.

This is a Major Problem

The overarching narrative on migrant crime and gang activity is one of fear and frustration. Residents in communities like Aurora express deep concerns about the threats posed by gangs like Tren de Aragua.

Border issues, which many believe are limited to border states, are becoming a national problem. Americans perceive government failure is causing the crisis to spread across all communities.

Voters distrust political leadership and believe Harris’s current and proposed immigration and law enforcement policies will be inadequate. People want more robust border security, stricter immigration enforcement, and decisive action from local and national leaders to ensure community safety.

When Americans are aware of migrant crimes against children, particularly those involving trafficking and abuse, they are furious. Voter conversations show widespread concern and anger over child safety.

People’s reactions are shaped by their awareness of these crimes and their perceptions of the underlying problems. This analysis explores prevailing sentiments, focusing on how awareness impacts public emotions and beliefs about the impact of unchecked immigration on American children.

Awareness and Emotional Impact

People are increasingly aware of the crimes committed by migrants, especially those involving children. This awareness triggers intense emotional responses, predominantly fear and outrage. Approximately 75-85% express negative sentiments, with voters expressing alarm over child trafficking and abuse linked to illegal immigration.

Americans view these crimes as an imminent threat to the safety their children, heightening a sense of urgency and desperation. Fears are compounded by frequent mentions of specific incidents involving children, which serve to personalize and amplify emotional impact.

The public’s awareness of these issues does not merely evoke concern but generates discussion of societal vulnerability and government failure. When the media reports crimes against children, Americans express outrage, often blaming Biden-Harris policies as facilitating increased dangers.

BREAKING: Illegal aliens tried to hijack 2 buses full of kids in San Diego

Border Czar Harris owns this mess pic.twitter.com/KovIECZgLc

— End Wokeness (@EndWokeness) August 29, 2024

Perceived Problems and Their Origins

Voters discussing these issues regularly insist the root of the problem is the Biden-Harris border. People view these policies as too lenient, allowing criminals to exploit vulnerable populations, particularly children.

MIG Reports analysis shows 70-80% of discussions emphasize the belief that open borders and ineffective enforcement contribute directly to the rise in migrant crime. Joe Biden and Kamala Harris receive the blame as voters assert their immigration policy is a major failure.

National sentiment is that leaders have both failed to protect citizens and created a situation where migrants can commit these crimes with impunity. There are widespread calls for stricter immigration controls and harsher penalties crimes—especially against children.

There is also a growing distrust of government institutions, with around 60% suggesting government agencies and nonprofits are either complicit in or negligent toward the border crisis.

Role of NGOs at the Border

Many Americans accuse Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) of facilitating illegal immigration. They regularly implicate these organizations in the crimes committed by migrants, particularly those involving children.

The means sentiment is predominantly negative as people express outrage and betrayal, believing NGOs enable human trafficking and other criminal activities. This distrust is further exacerbated by the perception that NGOs prioritize the welfare of migrants over the safety of citizens. Many people call for stricter regulation and oversight of these organizations.

Some of the reasons Americans give for blaming NGOs include:

• Operational Practices: Some say NGOs providing aid like shelter and legal advice to migrants facilitate illegal immigration by making the journey more viable.
• Collaboration with Smugglers: There's suspicion that some NGOs inadvertently or directly aid smugglers with logistical support or information.
• Political and Ideological Motives: Some view NGOs, especially those with international affiliations, as pushing for U.S. open borders or demographic change.
• Financial Incentives: Critics say NGOs, often funded by governments or international bodies, encourage migration because their financial benefits are tied to the scale of the crisis they manage.
• Misuse of Resources: People say NGOs divert resources meant for legal residents to illegal migrants.
• Lack of Accountability: Lack of oversight at the U.S. border causes accusations of activities beyond humanitarian aid, potentially including trafficking.

Anger at Cartels

Voters also cite cartels as a root cause of violence and trafficking across the U.S. border. Public sentiment strongly links the activities of Mexican cartels to the broader issue of border security and safety for American communities.

Discussion reflects a widespread belief that lax border policies allow cartels to thrive, facilitating and even encouraging drug trafficking and child trafficking. This fuels public demand for more aggressive measures to combat cartel influence.

Additional Themes

Beyond the complicity of government and NGOs with cartels, Americans also discuss broader societal issues like the erosion of American cultural and moral values through immigration.

Citizens express concern that the influx of migrants, coupled with the government's inaction, is leading to a decline in societal standards. Many argue that migrants who increasingly do not assimilate, deepen national cultural fractures and erode Americans values.

MIG Reports analysis of California and Oregon, two very blue areas, potentially granting home loans to illegal immigrants shows voter reactions. Conversations reveal tensions around progressive housing policy, immigration, and broader societal implications. Americans talk about fairness, the impact on local citizens, and the underlying values of national identity.

Outrage

A predominant theme often centers around unfairness. Many Americans express outrage at the possibility of providing financial benefits, such as home loans, to illegal aliens. They assert giving tax dollars to non-citizens undermines the sacrifices made by lawful citizens and would exacerbate existing housing crises.

Most comments call this proposed policy detrimental, highlighting concerns that it would contribute to rising real estate prices and lead to increased taxation burdens on American homeowners. This sentiment includes fears about economic survival and stability for established residents who already feel stretched by high living costs.

Inclusion Versus Replacement Theory

More progressive Americans frame the discussion around compassion and inclusivity. They argue the changing demographic landscape necessitates a re-evaluation of who deserves access to resources.

Advocates say illegal immigrants contribute to the economy and society and deserve opportunities for home ownership—a key piece of the American dream. This group says inclusive housing policies foster community cohesion and economic growth, especially amid labor shortages in crucial sectors.

There is also contrast in national versus local identity, with many discussions touching on the broader ramifications of such policies. Critics worry aiding illegal immigrants could attract more foreign nationals seeking similar benefits, straining local resources.

But supporters contend neighbors who support immigrants inherently enrich local culture and community bonds. This clash between a nationalistic viewpoint and a cosmopolitan approach reveals deeper societal debates about America’s values. This brings into question ideas of opportunity, assimilation, and fairness.

Without Representation

Fear and anger emerge as strong emotional responses, with many Americans saying home loans for illegal migrants would be a legal and moral failure.

The emotions hint at a broader anxiety about political representation and government neglect of American citizens. Comments often voice frustration at government actions that Americans feel compromise their rights and economic welfare.

MIG Reports analysis shows:

• 40% express concern over unfairness and economic burden
• 30% advocate for compassion and inclusivity in policy
• 20% voice anxieties about national identity and local resources
• 10% articulate mixed feelings, revealing a desire for balanced discussion

Voter views of home loans for illegal immigrants are deeply entwined with larger partisan debates about immigration reform, societal values, and economic impacts. Each side of the discussion grapples with fundamental principles of justice and opportunity.

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.