MIG Reports analysis of conversations around illegal immigration and its financial implications reveals a hotly debated issue, especially when compared with domestic financial costs for programs like Medicaid and food stamps. Voter discussion trends and overall sentiment reveals a significant portion of the discourse focusing on policy solutions such as border security and deportation.

What Americans Are Saying

Financial Burden: Voters often complain that illegal immigrants pose a greater financial burden on the U.S. economy than programs like Medicaid or food stamps. This is often highlighted by citing the costs associated with healthcare, housing, education, and other social services.

Border Security: Many people advocate for stronger border security measures to mitigate illegal immigration. This includes building a wall, using advanced surveillance technology, and increasing the presence of border patrol and military personnel.

Political Accountability: There is noticeable frustration directed at political figures and parties who voters believe have failed to address or have exacerbated the issues of border security and illegal immigration.

Economic and Safety Concerns: Some discussions link illegal immigration to broader concerns about job competition, public safety, and the strain on public resources, which are perceived to impact the economic and social fabric of local communities.

Sentiment Analysis

Negative Sentiment: There is a high volume of negative discussion, particularly in terms of frustration and anger towards current immigration policies and the perceived lack of action from political leaders. Terms like "invasion" and accusations of policy failures amplify this negative sentiment.

Positive Sentiment: These are generally focused on proposals for stricter immigration controls and support for measures that promise to enhance border security. Advocates for stronger borders express a sense of urgency and necessity in their messages.

The strong sentiments surrounding immigration issues and the financial burden narrative could potentially increase support for policies aiming at closing the border and implementing mass deportations. The portrayal of illegal immigrants as a significant economic strain could drive public opinion towards favoring more extreme measures to secure the border and reduce illegal entries.

MIG Reports analysis of Joe Biden's proposed plan to grant legal status to illegal immigrants who married U.S. citizens sheds light on the heated and polarizing debate around immigration policy in the United States. The discussion shows a clear divide in opinions about the Biden policy with little room for a neutral stance.

This Biden program would provide “mixed-status couples” exemption from deporting the spouse who is in the country illegally. Critics express deep-seated frustrations over the financial burden on taxpayers, perceived threats to national security, and prioritizing foreign interests over domestic issues. They call for stricter border control measures, notably the construction of a wall along the southern U.S. border, and express anger at what they perceive as a lack of action from political leaders to address these concerns. There are also allegations of corruption and misuse of funds intended for the construction of the border wall, further fueling the controversy. The issue becomes especially touchy for Americans who feel the real-world impact of Biden's economic policies.

Supporters of the proposed policy are reacting saying criticism is misdirected and more comprehensive immigration reform is necessary. They point out the shortcomings of a wall as a deterrent for illegal immigration, suggesting alternative border control measures. 

Implications on the Border Discussion

If Biden continues with the policy of granting work authorization to illegal alien spouses, it could potentially escalate the ongoing debate about immigration policies. This may lead to further polarization of public opinion, with one group arguing for the rights of these individuals and another group emphasizing the need to prioritize the interests of American citizens.

Sentiment towards border control measures is likely to remain contentious. Those advocating for stricter measures will likely stand firm in their beliefs, especially if the high number of illegal crossings does not cease. Those against a physical wall may push for more progressive immigration reform, claiming to focus on the root causes of migration and advocating for more humane treatment of immigrants.

Biden's policies on these issues will continue to be a focal point of political and public discussion, with sentiment likely to fluctuate in response to policy changes and ongoing events at the border.

On April 16, 1,300 illegal immigrants lined up outside City Hall in New York City expecting green cards to be handed out. The event occurred due to confusion, as the migrants are ineligible for green cards (an immigration benefit). Millions of illegal immigrants from dozens of ethnicities and backgrounds have entered the U.S. since 2021. This makes it difficult for unregulated NGOs with limited capabilities to convey messaging to everyone. With the ongoing border crisis, it’s likely events like these may continue and potentially worsen.

MIG Reports analysis reveals a divided but shifting political. Opinions also differ within racial and economic groups. Generally, voters’ views align with the broader national debate on immigration—a topic that has become increasingly polarized during the Biden administration.

Democrats, who generally support more inclusive immigration policies, seem to be less critical of the migrants seeking green cards. However, some expressed concerns about the practicality of completely open borders, yet also question what it would mean to “close” the border. They note many people cross for legal reasons. Despite this, the overall sentiment among Democrats is one of understanding and empathy for the migrants' plight.

Republicans use stronger language, referring to the situation as an “invasion” and calling for militarization of the border. They express frustration at the Biden administration's immigration policies and accuse them of incompetence and malfeasance. They also convey outrage about the perceived misuse of taxpayer money, arguing it should be used to address the southern border instead of funding foreign nations.

On April 16, following the migrants in NYC seeking free immigration benefits, Immigration discussions online surpassed Border Security discussion volume. This is anomalous as Border Security typically generates more mentions.

Further analysis reveals a shift in Latino voting patterns towards alignment with white, non-Hispanic blue-collar workers, a group traditionally associated with Republican voting. This could suggest a change in sentiment among legal immigrants towards tougher immigration policies.

Economic class also plays a role in shaping sentiments. Those expressing frustration at the misuse of taxpayer money often belong to the middle class. They express feeling the burden of taxes and the impact of national debt. In addition, many calling for increased border security are among the growing lower economic classes, possibly perceiving immigrants as a threat to their jobs or resources.

The general sentiment towards immigration during the Biden administration has been mixed, with political, racial, and economic factors playing a significant role in shaping public opinion. Recent events underscore the complexity of the immigration debate, growing economic concerns, and the current state of distrust and anger within the American public.

Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas recently admitted the border situation is a “crisis” and said sanctuary cities should remove criminal illegal immigrants. While discussion about the border and immigration is still extremely negative, MIG Reports data shows voter attention has turned to the economy in recent weeks.

As the House prepares to send articles of impeachment against Mayorkas, discussions about border security are negative, though lower in volume compared to last month.

• National sentiment regarding the border has steadied around 50% in the last week as discussion volume has fallen.

Those who are still vocal about border security regularly mention elected officials like Mayorkas and Biden, accusing them of enabling illegal immigration. Voters express a desire for stronger leadership, prioritizing national security and law enforcement over political considerations.

There are also repeated mentions of drug cartels, indicating a concern about the connection between illegal immigration and organized crime. Most people talking about this issue believe the government is not doing enough to combat drug trafficking at the border.

Sentiment Towards Secretary Mayorkas

Many voters believe Mayorkas has failed in his role as Secretary of Homeland Security and that his impeachment could be a step in the right direction. They say he has allowed an unprecedented number of illegal immigrants to enter the country, leading to the "worst border crisis in history."

Critics of Mayorkas say he should be held accountable for the administration's mishandling of the border crisis. Many voters are also calling out Senator Schumer for not setting a trial for Secretary Mayorkas, arguing he is violating 200 years of Senate precedent and constitutional duty. Some suggest that Senate Democrats, particularly Senator Schumer, fear a trial could negatively affect the 2024 elections.

There is some discussion of the consequences of Mayorkas' policies, describing the U.S. as turning into a "third world hell-hole." People say increasing crimes and costs from illegal immigrants is unacceptable. They cite specific examples, such as a Salvadoran MS-13 gang member charged with assaulting police and family members, who was reportedly released into the community despite a detainer request from ICE.

Supporters, however, argue holding an impeachment trial for Mayorkas is simply a political move by the GOP. They argue Republicans have consistently voted against border initiatives since Biden took office and are now trying to shift the blame onto Mayorkas and the Biden administration.

• Discussion about Mayorkas has increased in the last four days, but his approval has remained relatively steady.
• Those who speak out in support of Mayorkas tend to view his impeachment as a political tactic by Republicans.

Views About Biden’s Border Policy

Many people continue to criticize the Biden administration for failing to enforce strict border control measures. This sentiment is often accompanied by a call for the reinstatement of Trump's border policies, which are seen as more effective in curbing illegal immigration.

Some Biden supporters voice opposition to the idea of building a wall and criticize such measures as xenophobic and harmful. Mostly Democrats, this group often labels the rhetoric around border security as a political tactic used to appeal to a specific demographic. They argue those in favor of strict immigration policies stigmatize immigrants and undermine the country's values of inclusivity and freedom.

As other MIG Reports have shown, however, there’s an increasing number of Democrat voters who agree the situation at the border a crisis. Some are now saying border control should not be a federal issue but a state issue. They argue the states should have the autonomy to decide their own immigration policies, in line with the Constitution.

• In March border security was the top issues in conversations online about Joe Biden.
• A month later in April, border security dropped significantly, falling below the economy and the Israel-Hamas war.

Growing Democratic Voter Disapproval

Many Democratic Party voters, particularly those with more progressive leanings, have expressed disappointment and frustration regarding Biden's border policies. They argue Biden has not veered far enough from the hardline policies implemented by Trump. This group tends to criticize policies like Title 42, which enables the expulsion of asylum seekers due to public health concerns. They criticize Biden for not being inclusive enough.

Centrist Democrats are more likely to support Biden's approach to the border. They appreciate his efforts to undo some of the more controversial policies of the Trump era, such as the "Remain in Mexico" policy.

However, even among these voters, there is a level of concern about the surge in border crossings and the potential political fallout. They worry if the situation is not quickly addressed, it could harm the Democratic Party's prospects in the upcoming elections and beyond.

Recent Border Patrol encounters with Chinese nationals crossing the border illegally shows an alarming increase in the last two years. This news corresponds with American voters’ growing dissatisfaction with border security and threats posed by China. Opinions fall somewhat along party lines, but even Democrats are becoming more distressed about the Biden administration’s border policy.

MIG Reports analysis indicates border and U.S. security issues are a top priority for voters in 2024. These issues are especially critical in swing states where voter opinions promise to weigh heavily on presidential election results this fall.

• Most voters currently blame President Biden for the disastrous border situation and rising threats of Chinese infiltration.
• In swing states, Trump gains higher approval on both border security and China, averaging 47% to Biden’s 41% on the border and 46% to Biden’s 43% on China.

• Nationally, Republican sentiment on the border is slightly lower than Democrat sentiment – and overall sentiment is lower still.
• Sentiment on China nationally is tighter overall and among Democrats and Republicans. But Republicans have a lower average sentiment at 45%.

American Views on China

Republicans are more likely to voice concerns about China when it comes to illegal immigration. This group views China as a significant threat to national security – including the alarming number of Chinese nationals apprehended by Border Patrol.

• According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection data, encounters with Chinese nationals illegally entering the country have jumped to a shocking 22,233 so far in 2024, up from 342 in 2021.

Conservative voters are also concerned about economic pressure from China, intellectual property theft, and the potential for cyber-attacks. Right leaning voters tend to be very worried about the possibility that China is intentionally infiltrating the U.S. border with military aged men. They view China as an antagonistic force that is both physically and digitally attempting to compromise U.S. security.

While many liberal voters also view China as a potential threat, they are more likely to emphasize diplomatic and economic measures to address the issue, rather than military action. They may also be more focused on human rights issues in China, and less concerned about border infiltration.

Another prominent viewpoint in the China discussion is the notion that if authoritarian regimes like Russia and China gain victories, it could strengthen other authoritarian states and promote their aggressive actions.

Political Blame Falls on President Biden

Many voters on both sides of the aisle explicitly link the issue of border control to the failings of the current administration. Most express disapproval for President Biden’s border policies and apparent disregard for an issue that concerns so many Americans. These criticisms also include frustration with the Democratic Party’s handling of the border issue, overall.

• Recent AP polling revealed that 58% of Americans view border security as extremely or very important. This includes 46% of Democrats and 75% of Republicans.

The question of who should be allowed to immigrate to the U.S. is also contentious topic. Some express a preference for immigrants who contribute to the economy, while others prefer to limit or halt immigration completely. Republicans are especially likely to voice objections to single, military aged men, from any country, being admitted to the U.S.

Overall, voters are strongly advocating for stricter enforcement of immigration laws. Some go so far as to call for mass deportation of illegal immigrants.

Resentment About the Border Wall

Although Donald Trump enjoys higher approval among voters regarding border security, there is some criticism for his failure to fully build the border wall during his term. Many Republicans and conservatives point to the border wall as a key campaign promise he did not fulfill.

This criticism is often mentioned with critiques of the Republican Party's handling of border control. Some suggest Trump and Republican failures show the inherent difficulties of securing the border.

At the same time, more liberal voters express skepticism about the feasibility of the border wall, questioning its cost and practicality. Some also propose a wall on the northern border, often in response to potential political changes in Canada.

Online discussion analysis by MIG Reports finds widespread frustration and blame towards Democrats and specific politicians, such as Speaker Johnson, for the opioid crisis and fentanyl deaths. It appears much of the spirited discussion is among those who align with right-leaning ideologies.

Many voters link illegal immigration to crime, including violent crimes and especially drug-related offenses. There is a prevalent belief among this group that cartels and illegal immigrants pose a significant threat to American safety and security.

Overall, Americans link the opioid crisis to border control policies. Some suggest Republicans are responsible for not funding border control adequately, thereby enabling the smuggling of fentanyl and other opioids into the country. There's also criticism of the Democrats for the perception that they’re allowing and even encouraging illegal criminals and opioids to enter the country.

• Border security continues to be one of the top issues for most Americans, regardless of political leanings.
• Sentiment mostly remains below 50% with severe negativity directed towards the Biden administration
• Opioid discussion is lower than general border topics but is consistently linked to border security.

Most Blame Falls on Politicians and the Cartels

Most voters tend to blame politicians on the other side of the aisle – Democrats accusing Republicans and vice versa. Both political parties receive criticism for not taking enough action to curb the crisis, although the Biden administration gets most of the current criticism.

There's also significant blame placed on the cartels and illegal immigrants themselves. Many voters focus on the role of Mexico and China in contributing to the opioid crisis. They believe the Mexican government, especially President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, isn't doing enough to combat drug cartels that smuggle fentanyl into the U.S. China is also accused of being a source of fentanyl that gets moved across the U.S. border.

Multiple users link the opioid epidemic to human trafficking, implying the same cartels responsible for drug trafficking are likely involved in human trafficking. There are also allegations that NGOs at the southern border are facilitating illegal immigration, indirectly aiding drug trafficking.

Overall, most concerned voters argue the Biden administration's border policies enable drug cartels to have free reign.

Conservatives Are Highly Critical of the Border and Opioids

Right leaning voters often blame the Obama’s open borders policy and the perceived continuation of this policy under Biden. They attribute the opioid crisis and especially fentanyl deaths to uncontrolled cartel access. Many among this group believe if Donald Trump doesn't win in 2024, this will perpetuate and worsen the situation.

Conservatives and some moderates express anger over what they view as wasteful government spending, particularly on policies supporting immigrants. They blame the Democrats for prioritizing funding towards illegal immigrants over addressing the opioid crisis.

This group also blames open borders for many drug-related and, in their view, preventable deaths. They hold Democrats responsible for pushing open borders, and they demand stronger border control measures.

Certain voters blame Republican politicians like Speaker Johnson and Republicans in Congress for not taking decisive action against on the border and failing to support more immigration legislation and crackdowns. This, they believe, contributes to the influx of drugs into the country. There also appears to be a sentiment that the issue is being used as a “talking point” for political gain.

Liberal Voters Call for Funding and Healthcare Solutions

Some vocal liberals challenge the prevailing narrative that stricter border control is the primary solution to the opioid crisis. They argue most fentanyl enters the country through legal ports of entry and is brought in by American citizens. Some also criticize Republicans for blocking funding that could increase border staff and improve drug detection technology.

There is a sentiment that the healthcare system and doctors are contributing to the opioid crisis by refusing to prescribe opioids. There are criticisms of the healthcare system blaming it for penalizing doctors for prescribing painkillers and making opioids difficult to access for those in genuine need.

Some support new laws to curb the opioid crisis, and sometimes legalization of drugs, indicating a belief in legislative solutions to public health problems. There is also a call for bipartisan cooperation to address the crisis, framing it as a moral issue rather than a political one.

Online commentary concerning opioids is a large, varied topic which produces a lower sentiment than conversations pertaining to drug enforcement. 

Some of the common discussion include:

Fentanyl

There's a widespread concern about the proliferation of fentanyl in the illegal drug supply — a highly potent synthetic opioid. Many Americans express fear and confusion about reasons for its presence, given the drug's high lethality. They see fentanyl as counterproductive for drug dealers or the cartels. Some people believe the introduction of fentanyl is a deliberate act to harm or kill users, and there are theories that it is part of a broader conspiracy. Many also acknowledge the extreme danger posed by fentanyl, with some likening its use to playing Russian roulette. Others connect the presence of fentanyl in drugs to the need for changes in border policy.

Opioid Crisis

The opioid crisis is a significant point of discussion, with criticism aimed at politicians and pharmaceutical companies for their roles in the epidemic. Many feel these entities are profiting from the crisis and doing nothing to stop it. There's also a sense of frustration and anger over the perceived lack of action and accountability in addressing the issue, along with related border and crime issues.

Personal Responsibility

Some users emphasize the importance of personal responsibility in drug use, arguing that individuals must make the choice not to consume drugs. However, this viewpoint is not universally shared. Some point to external factors like the availability and potency of drugs and the difficulty of getting clean.

Drug Legislation

There's skepticism about the effectiveness of drug legislation in curbing the drug problem, with some viewing proposed initiatives like the END FENTANYL ACT with cynicism. There's a sense that previous legislation has only made the situation worse, and there's little faith that future legislation will be any different.

Drug Prohibition

Some users see drug prohibition as a significant factor in drug-related deaths, arguing that it forces people to use unregulated drugs and contributes to the prevalence of dangerous substances like fentanyl. There are calls for drugs to be regulated and sold in the same way as alcohol.

The Effect on Families and Communities

The impact of drug use and addiction on families and communities is a recurring theme. Users share personal stories of loss and devastation caused by drug addiction, particularly from fentanyl poisoning. There's also a sense that certain communities, like those with high opioid use, are stigmatized and overlooked.

Recent news of a Haitian migrant being charged with raping a 15-year-old girl has American voters outraged. The offender, a parolee from Haiti, came to the U.S. through President Biden’s “Humanitarian Parole Program.” According to Fox News, the controversial program allows 30,000 migrants a month to fly directly into the country.

Many say this unforgivable immigration plan both contributes to Biden’s “open borders” problem and gives credence to Trump’s claims that Democrats are bringing criminals into this country through unchecked immigration.

Stories like this and the recent murder of Laken Riley have many American citizens outraged and demanding action. MIG Reports analysis reveals that sentiment toward Biden's Humanitarian Parole Program is largely negative. The main concerns appear to center around border control, safety, and the rule of law.

Voters Believe Biden Supports Open Borders

Many voters express frustration with what they see as a Biden administration open borders policy. People are calling for the southern border to be sealed and for mass deportations – something Trump has promised to do.

Overall, right leaning and moderate voters believe the parole program is a conduit for illegal immigration and are demanding stricter border control.

American Communities in Danger

Fear about safety is a prominent source of objection to continued illegal immigration. There's a common perception in discussions that the parole program is enabling criminal activities. Many point out that flying convicted prisoners into the U.S. will obviously lead to an influx of active criminals, increasing violence in American streets.

Demands to Uphold the Rule of Law

Many Americans also indicate a strong belief that those entering the country illegally are committing a federal crime and should be treated as criminals, not as newcomers. This, they say, is especially true for those who are already convicted criminals in their own countries. There's a sense of outrage over perceived protection and rights given to these illegal immigrants.

Impact on Citizens with Biden to Blame

There's a strong sentiment that Biden’s policies are negatively affecting American citizens' lives. Especially those who fall victim to violent crimes – often young people and children. Users voice concerns about the potential impact on jobs, taxpayer money, and social service. They also express concern about the potential cultural and demographic changes that could result from large-scale immigration.

Many are vocal about the border crisis being the fault of the Democrat Party and Biden's policy. They laud figures like Donald Trump and Governor Abbott for their stances on immigration.

Biden Policy Supporters

Some Democrats and more progressive voters support Biden’s border policies, including the parole program. Typically leaning to the left, this group frames their arguments in terms of human rights, compassion, and global responsibility.

They argue that the U.S. has a moral and ethical obligation to help those in need, particularly those fleeing violence or persecution in their home countries. They also argue that the U.S, as a wealthy and powerful nation, has the capacity to absorb and integrate new immigrants.

These supporters often criticize the anyone who objects to such policies, accusing them of fearmongering, racism, and xenophobia. They argue that these critics are overstating the potential risks of the policy and are motivated by prejudice or intolerance.

Overall, this topic of the border continues to be a divisive and increasingly negative subject for President Biden. While his progressive voters continue to support him, border security is shaping up to be one of the most important issues in the 2024 presidential election.

On March 8, U.S. District Judge Sharon Johnson Coleman declared a federal statute barring undocumented immigrants possessing firearms to be unconstitutional. She contended that the law contravened the Supreme Court's decision in New York State Rifle and Pistol Association v. Bruen, which emphasized the necessity for gun control measures to align with historical precedent. This court ruling allows illegal immigrants in America to take advantage of Second Amendment rights by purchasing firearms and ammunition. This policy has shocked many American citizens, generating concern and incredulity.

The legal dispute arose when Heriberto Carbajal-Flores, an illegal alien, faced charges for unlawful firearm possession. However, Judge Coleman contended that because Carbajal-Flores' criminal history lacks instances of weapon misuse or violence during his apprehension, he doesn't present a threat to public safety. Consequently, she argued that he should not be stripped of his Second Amendment entitlement to bear arms for self-defense.

MIG Reports analysis reveals a diverse range of opinions on the recent ruling, stirring emotional debate. The primary discussion revolves around the interpretation of the Second Amendment, the consequences of allowing non-citizens to own firearms, and the potential implications on gun violence.

Supporters of the ruling, who appear to be from various political affiliations, argue that the Constitution, including the Second Amendment, applies to everyone within the United States. They believe the right to bear arms should not be infringed, regardless of citizenship status.

Some even argue that gun violence has been on a downward trend and that expanding constitutional carry will lead to a further decrease.

• Gun control sentiment has increased slightly in the last several days, suggesting Americans are concerned about this issue.

Critics of the ruling, also from various political backgrounds, express concern that this decision could exacerbate gun violence. They worry about the potential inability of illegal aliens to undergo thorough background checks or mental health assessments. Many voters argue the Second Amendment was intended only for U.S. citizens. They say extending it to illegal aliens could have severe consequences. Some critics also see this ruling as a strategy to increase gun violence, which could then be used as a justification for stricter gun control measures.

Many are expressing frustration with what they perceive as lax border control policies and the implications for national security and public safety. These gun allowances for increasing numbers of illegal immigrants, many believe, threatens an increase in crime and danger for citizens.

Some concerns highlight the potential implications on the feasibility of thorough background and mental health checks. These concerns do not appear to be strictly partisan but are shared by voters across political affiliations.

Critics of the ruling point out that illegal immigrants have already violated immigration laws. They also worry about mental health patterns, citing studies that indicate 14% of undocumented immigrants meeting the criteria for depression, and 7% for anxiety. Substance abuse among illegal immigrants is at a similar level as among the citizen population.

Overall, the ruling has become another contentious issue in the ongoing national debate about gun violence and gun rights, and now possibly incorporating citizenship, public safety, and illegal immigration.