Several leftist figures from news media like Don Lemon, Joy Reid, and The Guardian have announced their plans to leave X (formerly Twitter). This dramatic exodus is occurring against a backdrop of significant upheaval in traditional media.

Online discussions often view rumors of CNN facing layoffs, Comcast potentially selling MSNBC, major ratings declines, and Chris Wallace jumping ship from CNN as dying last gasps of legacy media. Elon Musk’s comment that “You are the media now!” captures a growing sentiment that corporate media is no longer the power center of information.

This platform is at all-time highs.

You are the media now. https://t.co/8Zy049xGAh

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) November 13, 2024

Making a Dramatic Exit from X

Reactions to prominent left-leaning figures leaving X are varied, but mostly unified against those leaving. This is demonstrated in a resounding ratio on Don Lemon’s announcement video and claims that Lemon didn’t actually leave.

Here's why I'm leaving Twitter... pic.twitter.com/VIope68L2k

— Don Lemon (@donlemon) November 13, 2024

Much of the commentary is negative, criticizing Lemon and others for abandoning X in a useless protest of the inevitable evolution of news. The lesser number of positive comments still criticize the Guardian, Reid, and Lemon, saying the chaff is separating itself.

Joy Reid just deleted her X account 🤣 pic.twitter.com/sqwZyJkBYA

— End Wokeness (@EndWokeness) November 14, 2024

63% Negative Sentiment

• Many view these exits from X as symptomatic of a biased new media who are incapable of withstanding opposing viewpoints.
• Negative comments accuse those leaving of running from the new reality of media, thus personifying legacy media’s failure to adapt and include all voices.
• People point out the shrinking pool of critical voices in media who are willing to hold politicians and institutions accountable. They say the leftist media would prefer to censor platforms like X, rather than integrate into the new media paradigm.

29% Positive or Neutral Sentiment

• About a third of responses voice approval over the X departures. They say it allows for new voices to emerge in an environment less dominated by leftist corporate media figures.
• This group says things like, “Good riddance to biased reporting” and “We need more diverse voices not tied to the mainstream.” They hope X will foster independent journalism not influenced by corporate or partisan forces.
• People view X under Elon Musk as a victory for free speech, seeing it as fertile ground for alternative perspectives and causing a tantrum among corporate media elites who are losing their grip on power.

8% Concerned Sentiment

• A smaller fraction of comments is ambivalent but acknowledges both the potential positives and negatives of these high-profile departures.
• There's a sense of uncertainty, as people grapple with the long-term impact on media quality and public discourse online.
• Many in this camp worry the total collapse of legacy media might contribute to ideological echo chambers and the proliferation of “misinformation.”

Declining Trust in Legacy Media

Reactions to these dramatic exits are compounded by an ongoing bloodbath in legacy media credibility.

• CNN Layoffs: Rumored CNN layoffs are seen as the continuation of a downward trend for legacy news, which struggles to maintain relevance post-election.
• Comcast Selling MSNBC: Reports that Comcast is looking to sell MSNBC reinforces beliefs that news outlets have lost their once-powerful influence.
• Ratings Declines: Major networks are reporting significant rating drops over the past year, further decimating the sentiment of distrust among viewers.
• Reshaping News: A major news figure like Chris Wallace leaving CNN and saying podcasts are the future also indicates growing realizations within media ranks of the shifting reality.

More Americans say legacy media is out of touch with and fixated on advancing specific agendas rather than delivering reliable news. Increasingly, people are opting for independent and grassroots media sources, which they find on platforms like X and view as more genuine and less beholden to corporate interests.

Independent and Decentralized Media

Americans, particularly those on the right, place more trust in independent and decentralized media channels that bypass legacy gatekeepers. They want platforms where their perspectives can be freely shared without censorship or derision.

• Direct Channels: Figures like Joe Rogan and Tucker Carlson have built large followings by leveraging podcasts and social media as direct channels for unfiltered commentary. People see these figures as better alternatives to biased traditional media.
• Free Speech: Many Americans see decentralized platforms like X as essential to free speech. By allowing diverse voices without institutional curation, platforms like X provide what voters feel is a more balanced discourse.
• User Engagement Data: Social media engagement metrics show a steady increase in user participation on independent platforms, with conservative audiences comprising a significant portion of these active users.

The embrace of alternative media reflects a rejection of legacy media’s perceived elitism and disconnect from mainstream America. Online discourse confirms the sentiment as people move away from television news to online platforms.

Media Viewership vs. 𝕏

Trends indicate that people are moving away from the legacy media. pic.twitter.com/rhTnUdNdCH

— DogeDesigner (@cb_doge) November 8, 2024

Participatory Media

Musk’s “You are the media now” sentiment embodies the shift toward participatory media, which empowers individual users over institutional authorities. As a result, more Americans feel they have a direct role in shaping political discourse, further diminishing legacy media’s influence.

• Public Response: Many conservative voters view Musk’s statement as a call to action, empowering them to contribute directly to the public discourse.
• Participation: By eliminating traditional gatekeepers, participatory media encourages a free flow of ideas, allowing the people to interact directly with rich and powerful influencers like Elon Musk and Joe Rogan.
• Future Outlook: Many say legacy media will continue to lose relevance as younger generations abandon traditional institutions. They say the 2024 election sealed the fate of legacy institutions which were already crumbling.

In the week following Donald Trump’s reelection, social media discourse has continued to prioritize illegal immigration and other issues related to the border crisis. MIG Reports analysis shows heightened fears about cartel influence at the border, causing crisis and conflict.

Voters are deeply concerned that cartels don't just commit crimes but wield power across the border, exploiting lax policies for trafficking, violence, and economic gain. For many, the border is a front line where national security and American sovereignty are at stake.

Texas remains ready for any potential surge at the border by reinforcing vulnerable areas along the border with @TxDPS & @TXMilitary forces, resulting in deterrence & prevention by reducing illegal border crossings. Those efforts have led to an 86% decrease in unlawful border… https://t.co/WLiq0XAFsY pic.twitter.com/OkRGRpR7Ad

— Chris Olivarez (@LtChrisOlivarez) November 13, 2024

This Is War

The language around child trafficking, cartel power, and border chaos evokes a crisis narrative and feelings of institutional distrust. As with recent discussions of Trump’s role in restoring order, people now look to stringent immigration policies as a form of defense.

For many, the issue of cartels has become the flagship border issue, tying cultural preservation, national security, and moral order together. Voters want more stringent policy measures and a statement of strength against adversarial forces undermining the American way of life.

There’s a Lot to do... Like NOW

There is urgency among voters and a feeling that current immigration policies have failed to protect the public. This exacerbates fears of cultural erosion and national vulnerability. Many align this fear with historical moments when immigration was similarly framed as an existential threat. They recall earlier periods where immigration protection intensified in response to economic uncertainty or perceived loss of control.

The sense of an “invasion” is strongly resonant, increasing populist sentiments of “us vs. Them.” Americans view cartels as a symbol of the corruption and lawlessness that have weakened the nation. While there is a feeling of 1980s Reaganism—a resurging America—there is also fear of amnesty and other immigration failures from the 1986 immigration bill.

President-elect Trump announced the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) with Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy to lead, lighting a fire of discussion online. DOGE’s purpose is to root out waste and inefficiency from federal operations, with promises from Musk to enact swift change within the first year and half of the new administration.

pic.twitter.com/042NfHZOQU

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) November 13, 2024

Musk also promises transparency and public participation in spending audits, aiming to bring a business-like discipline to the federal government. MIG Reports data shows DOGE’s mission resonates strongly with a populist voter base eager for streamlined governance and an end to bureaucratic excess.

Transparency and Accountability

For many conservative and populist voters, the concept of DOGE is a breath of fresh air, promising a level of government transparency and public involvement that Washington elites have long resisted. Musk’s promise to post all DOGE activities online sparks enthusiasm, particularly among those who despise wasteful government spending.

All actions of the Department of Government Efficiency will be posted online for maximum transparency.

Anytime the public thinks we are cutting something important or not cutting something wasteful, just let us know!

We will also have a leaderboard for most insanely dumb… https://t.co/1c0bAlxmY0

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) November 13, 2024

• Online Transparency: Many Americans believe Musk’s transparency strategy will empower them to hold budgets accountable and push back against bloat. This resonates with conservatives who often view government as self-serving.
• Disgust at Federal Spending: Voters point to excessive and pointless spending as a major drain on taxpayer resources. They are hopeful that disastrous initiatives like the Biden administration’s rural broadband project can be destroyed.

Disdain for D.C. Elites

MIG Reports data shows:

• 82% of Republican voters are dissatisfied with current government spending.
• 75% express strong support for Musk and Ramaswamy's roles within DOGE.
• 48% of comments cite specific examples of government wasting taxpayer dollars to emphasize their frustration.

DOGE supporters voice strong anti-establishment sentiment, criticizing the D.C. elite class which appears both insulated from and indifferent to the challenges they face. Social media reactions are filled with disdain for the swamp—officials, lobbyists, think tank analysts, and contractors who have long profited from federal inefficiency.

There are probably 100,000+ people in the greater DC area in the government sphere - govt employees, lawyers, lobbyists, think tanks, and NGO grifters - who are now worried about losing their jobs.

They’ve got fat mortgages, Mercedes payments, club memberships, and school fees… pic.twitter.com/UhoojN3589

— John LeFevre (@JohnLeFevre) November 13, 2024

• Frustration with Elites: Voters resent the lifestyle of D.C. insiders, who they see as preserving their own privileges over addressing public concerns. This sentiment is especially strong among those who feel abandoned by establishment figures in both parties who “grift” in Washington elite circles.
• Hopes for Real Change: Average Americans are hopeful about cutting useless spending, foreign aid, and unnecessary projects. However, many are skeptical of how much progress DOGE can make with limited time and as an unofficial department.

The populist versus elite divide in politics seems to be growing, pitting the political class, the legacy media, and many of the ultra-rich against the people. DOGE is a symbol for challenging the old guard, though Musk is drawing sharp criticism from elites about using his power and wealth against the establishment.

Establishment Resistance

While DOGE excites many voters, the response from establishment figures and moderates is mixed. Some worry Musk and Ramaswamy’s “transparency revolution” may be more of a political maneuver than a meaningful reform.

• Qualification Objections: Critics say the initiative’s success requires seasoned political professionals, not tech or business executives. Establishment GOP figures question whether Musk understands the complexities of federal bureaucracy.
• Government Stability: D.C. elites also fear radical cuts and that increased transparency could destabilize essential government functions. Concerns about mismanagement and overreach echo through establishment circles.
• Fear of Job Cuts: Thousands of government employees, lobbyists, and contractors fear DOGE is a direct threat to their livelihoods. Comments show anxiety over job security and resentment, claiming DOGE unfairly targets D.C.’s professional class.

GOP Divisions

Reactions to DOGE highlight the stark contrast between MAGA Republicans and establishment sympathizers. The populist wing of the party demands a major “cleaning out” and “swamp draining,” while RINOs argue for a more measured approach.

• MAGA is Anti-Elite: The new "America First” GOP despises bureaucracy, viewing DOGE as an affirmation of Trump’s promise to drain the swamp. However, intra-party disagreements are already under way with the Senate voting Sen. John Thune as Senate majority leader instead of populist pick Rick Scott.
• Calls for Realignment: Many voters are setting expectations for major overhauls and changes with a Republican House and Senate. They urge the administration to act swiftly, within the limited timeframe before 2026 midterm elections.

Democratic Critiques

MIG Reports data shows:

• 80% of Democratic voters disapprove, saying DOGE may be a façade for partisan interests.
• 60% are critical of Musk's appointment, citing concerns about corporate influence.

Reactions from the Democratic establishment are similar to those of the GOP establishment. Democrats criticize the concept of DOGE, questioning both the motives and feasibility of the initiative.

Democratic voices in Congress, as well as prominent figures in media and academia, have expressed concerns over its realistic implementation. They say it’s an unserious endeavor which will produce little or no results.

• Fear of Privatization: Many Democrats see DOGE as a thinly veiled attempt to privatize essential government functions. They worry cutting “wasteful spending” could endanger critical social programs that serve vulnerable populations.
• Distrust of Business Mindsets: Appointees Musk and Ramaswamy, both known for their tech and entrepreneurial backgrounds, also raise alarm among Democrats. They see a business-led approach to government reform as conflicting with governmental accountability and public service mandates.

Democratic voter discourse around Kamala Harris’s $1 billion campaign spending spree is fraught. Conversation about the staggering expenditure reflects disillusionment in the party. Democrats are frustrated by what they perceive as a misalignment between party leadership and the working-class electorate it claims to represent.

After Harris spent $1 billion dollars only to perform worse than Hillary Clinton and Joe Biden voters say:

• Campaign spending is symbolic of current party flaws
• Leaders refuse to embrace the base
• They expect no fix anytime soon

Many also wonder how they managed to spend $1 billion in just a few months.

we are so fucked pic.twitter.com/sHyYfObmST

— Corinne Green (@gaynarcan) September 8, 2024

The Hits Keep Coming

The calls for accountability in response to Harris’s campaign spending demand party leaders own up to their mismanagement. Voters view Democratic leaders as unwilling or unable to address the concerns of the base around issues that matter to working Americans.

Voters want accountability and meaningful change, saying the party risks further alienating an already disillusioned base. The sentiment resonates with recent critiques of the Democratic National Committee’s campaign strategies and its perceived corporate alignment. Many believe the party has dismissed voters and sacrificed grassroots connections in favor of top-down establishment protections.

Broke Beats Woke

Democratic voters hope for reforms that prioritize everyday issues like healthcare, housing, and economic stability. Many highlight the disconnect between party priorities and the economic struggles of the middle and lower classes, demonstrated by the spending mentality in the Harris campaign.

Americans are concerned about rising living costs, housing affordability, and Democrats’ failure to address inflation concerns. Some Democrats feel the party’s focus on identity politics has worsened division, detracting from core issues that resonate with a broader swath of voters. Voters want to return to unifying messaging that bridges ideological divides rather than emphasizes them.

🇺🇸 Kamala Harris's team reportedly spent the following:

• Oprah: $1m
• Concerts: $20m
• Influencers: $4m
• Call Her Daddy set: $100k

The campaign ended $20 million in debt, after raising over $1 billion. pic.twitter.com/ZhlCpO4wnG

— Remarks (@remarks) November 9, 2024

Left Behind

Some Democrats are questioning their loyalty to the Democratic Party in the wake of Harris’s disastrous campaign. Explicit statements from voters expressing their intent to leave the party capture the severity of disillusionment.

Voters say things like, “I’m done with the Democratic Party” to emphasize their disengagement. Many describe feeling “betrayed” and “disappointed,” over the party abandoning its prior unifying values of supporting the working class.

Disillusionment comes with nostalgia for a time when Democratic policies more directly aligned with the needs of average Americans instead of catering to elites and protecting establishment enclaves.

Leftists on social media are talking about anti-Trump Americans leaving the United States prior to his second presidency. Discussions are a multifaceted web of identity, belonging, authoritarian fear, disillusionment, and economic anxiety—intertwined with individual and communal expressions of distress.

Many who are complaining mention their perceptions of American values eroding nationwide, sparking concerns over identity and belonging. Many describe feeling disconnected from a national identity they once resonated with but now find alien. They view the political landscape appears increasingly hostile to their beliefs.

Statements like “I’m seriously considering leaving” reflect a reckoning among leftists, where the desire to is a physical relocation and symbolic rejection of an America they see as departing from democratic and progressive ideals.

Man dressed up as a woman says he can’t live in the US under Trump so he’s moving back to Australia.

He put on lipstick to make this historic announcement. pic.twitter.com/nFsHW1w7hC

— Paul A. Szypula 🇺🇸 (@Bubblebathgirl) November 7, 2024

True Belief in the Second Coming of Hitler

Fear of authoritarianism and fascism dominates these discussions, with progressives envisioning Trump as an existential threat to personal freedoms and civil rights. They often refer to Trump as akin to Hitler, calling his supporters racists, misogynists, and fascists.

They say things like, “I won’t stay under this regime” with visceral urgency. Among this group, emigration is a defense against the potential for oppressive governance. Fears are not isolated but collectively felt, amplified by social media.

Leftists find solace and validation in shared anxieties. They feel leaving is not just an escape but a protective measure against an anticipated erosion of democratic norms.

Virtue Signals in an Echo Chamber

There is also economic and social anxiety, as many express concerns about Trump exacerbating economic inequality, deteriorating social policies, and making healthcare unreliable.

Those on the left express a sense of vulnerability regarding the perceived socioeconomic regressions that a Trump administration will impose. Phrases like “I won’t suffer through another four years of this” reveal an underlying apprehension that cuts across personal and societal dimensions.

For some, leaving the country is a decision driven by ideological and material concerns, amplifying their sense that America may no longer offer stability or security.

A Lump Sum

A striking element in these discussions is the concept of “collective departure,” or leaving as a communal protest against a Trump regime. Those who share this sentiment are bound by shared fears and frustrations.

There is a sense of community and solidarity in the idea of abandoning a country that seems to threaten authoritarianism. Progressives say things like, “We’re planning our exit strategy” or “A group of us are looking into moving out together.” In this way, leaving is a unified response to a disillusioning political reality.

Social media’s role in creating these communal spaces magnifies the sentiment, fostering a sense of solidarity among those who feel estranged.

Oh shit. He won.

Anyone wanna check back on those “if Trump wins I’m going to kill myself” posts? pic.twitter.com/fBCD84M3V3

— 𓄂Pew (@PewOrPew) November 6, 2024

A big discussion prior to the 2024 election was the gender divide in support for Trump and Harris. Many concluded women would overwhelmingly turn out for Harris, based on “women’s rights” or abortion issues. However, surprising results showing Trump gaining ground with women, shocking some observers.

I don't know who needs to hear this, but Trump won white women outright pic.twitter.com/sxO5oc7pEw

— Jack Poso 🇺🇸 (@JackPosobiec) November 6, 2024

Despite conventional narratives suggesting women would vote strongly based on abortion, post-election conversations are illuminating. While past elections hinged on topics like abortion and identity politics, this election saw many women—and other voter groups—recalibrating toward economic stability, women’s safety, and traditional values.

🚨 JUST IN: Trump gains in nearly every demographic from 2020

🔴 Women: +2
🔴 Men: +3
🔴 Non-college: +6
🔴 Hispanic: +6
🔴 Black: +7
🔴 Young: +10 pic.twitter.com/qNcFOTDAVm

— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) November 6, 2024

Democrats Feel Women Failed Them

Around 40% of Democratic comments voice disappointment over female support for Trump. Many lament the disappointing turnout for abortion as the cornerstone issue of the Harris campaign.

This is “political analyst” & former poly-sci professor Dr. Arlene who brainwashed hundreds of thousands of people on TT into thinking Harris would win.

On Nov 5th, she told a story about how she taunted a grocery store worker about how Harris was 100% going to win

On Nov 6th,… pic.twitter.com/NbVhQ6uftx

— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) November 7, 2024

• A common theme among Democrats was disappointment over women supporting Trump, viewing it as a step back for women’s rights.
• Many Democrats express anxiety that Trump will roll back progress on abortion and gender equality.
• However voting results suggest women want policies that align with their family priorities and provide practical solutions.

Analysis

Previous MIG Reports data showed women are underrepresented in online political discourse. This may suggest that women voting for Trump are either less inclined to discuss it, or simply not captured due to lack of online presence.

Remember all those ads about "your husband won't know who you voted for?"

Turns out it wasn't their husbands that they were hiding their vote from, it was their judgy lefty girly pals.

— mrs. dobbins ☕️🪶 (@mrsdobbins_) November 6, 2024

The rise of policy-driven voting behavior among women may be attributed to the receding influence of gender ideology. This presents a strategic opportunity for Republicans to continue appealing to women with a platform that addresses concrete concerns.

Economic Stability Trumps Abortion

Drastically rising prices, particularly for essentials like groceries, healthcare, and housing, has become a major driver of political sentiment among female voters.

• Roughly 65% of women discussing the election online say economic concerns are the top priority.
• Women say things like, “Financial stability matters more than any other issue right now,” pointing to high costs and stagnant wages.
• Many women credit Trump’s policies with lower inflation and better household finances—they see his return as a path to restoring stability.

Analysis

Women directly link economic stability to their families' well-being. This trend suggests the social and identity issues emphasized in the culture over the last decade have lost potency amid economic fears.

In 2024, women are making decisions based on financial considerations, which they see as non-negotiable. For a Republican administration, continuing to address voter economic concerns pragmatically could solidify and increase this trend.

Sick of “Woke” Politics

Many women say they view Trump’s emphasis on traditional values as a welcome departure from identity politics.

• 30% of Republicans celebrate Trump's cultural alignment with anti-woke values.
• 25% of women say they feel alienation from Democratic messaging on woke issues—particularly transgender rights and women’s safety.
• Many say transgender policies, particularly in women’s sports and public spaces, are more severely encroaching on women’s rights than abortion restrictions.

Analysis

Trends suggests there may be a growing cultural shift to the right, with conservative female voters rallying to reorient around traditional values over progressive ideology. Republican messages that champion economic stability, safety, and family-focused policies resonate deeply with women. As identity politics increasingly alienates this voter base, progressives may continue to lose hold on women.

Failed “Women’s Rights” Movement

Many on the left lauded abortion as the most critical issues for women in 2024. Although it was a dominant issue in the 2022 midterms post-Dobs, current trends show the economy and personal safety supersede abortion issues for many women.

• Only 20% of women discussing the election emphasize abortion, suggesting a diminishing role in shaping female voting patterns.
• Many in this group—particularly mothers—say they prioritize “women’s rights” in the form of securing the border and female spaces.
• While many voters still express concern over potential abortion rollbacks in certain states, this does not seem to have a dramatic impact on the presidential race.

Analysis

Many women, including pro-choice advocates, are balancing abortion issues with more pressing economic and safety concerns. State races show a significant number of women still place importance on abortion, however Republican messaging about states’ rights post-Roe may impact voter decisions for national issues.

The 2024 election delivered a historic “red wave,” as Trump and Republican candidates cleaned up with an electoral presidential win, the popular vote, and projections for a majority in the Senate and House.

While conservative circles celebrate this shift, Democratic voters and pundits are reeling from Democrats losing support in almost every state.

Donald Trump gained support in 49 out of 50 states from 2020 to 2024 pic.twitter.com/Jd4O2plEWZ

— America (@america) November 7, 2024

Democratic Voters in Shock and Disbelief

The scale of the Republican victory has generated shock among Democratic voters, many of whom anticipated more favorable results based on conventional polling and media reporting.

Voter reactions indicate a profound disconnect within the Democratic base, with discussions centering around disbelief that such a large political shift could take place after Biden’s historic popular vote totals in 2020.

10 Shocking Stories the Media Buried Today

#10 - Joe Rogan raises SERIOUS questions about Biden’s “81 million votes” in 2020.

“Look at the difference in how many people voted for Biden in 2020. It's unprecedented! It's way higher than any other time since 2012.”

“Look at where… pic.twitter.com/lUN3lMWZdb

— The Vigilant Fox 🦊 (@VigilantFox) November 7, 2024

Some attribute this wholesale American rejection of Kamala Harris to a cultural shift which the Democratic Party misread. However, the majority of Harris voters largely attribute the loss to “racism," "misogyny," and a resurgent conservatism. Now, many question whether America remains fundamentally center-right, a trend Democratic strategists appear to have underestimated.

Internal Conflict and Critique

There is division over whether Democrats strayed too far from their traditional working-class roots, or Americans are racist and misogynistic.

An increasingly progressive party, some argue, only alienated vital demographics who feel sidelined by elite-focused, urban-driven policies. Discussions show frustration with the party’s focus on identity politics over practical concerns like economic stability, public safety, and personal freedom.

On today's Morning Joe, Scarborough is still trying to square how Kamala Harris lost so bad and was SHOCKED to learn about the high price of groceries.

Scarborough was floored when a friend told him butter was $3 and he almost fell out of his chair when Mika Brzezinski told him… pic.twitter.com/6MelvWoput

— Steve Guest (@SteveGuest) November 7, 2024

• Identity Politics: Many Democrats criticize the party’s emphasis on identity politics (e.g., gender identity and race-based policies), arguing they are detached from the daily realities facing middle America.
• Working-Class Alienation: Voters from blue-collar and Latino communities report feeling condescended to, left out by a party they once identified with but now view as elitist and dismissive.
• Shift in Latino Support: A shift toward Trump among Latino voters in traditionally Democratic regions challenges assumptions that progressive policies resonate universally among minority groups.

Some also point out that Trump gained ground with nearly every voter group besides older voters 65+ and white, college educated women. This again results in either accusations of racism and misogyny or critiques of woke ideologies.

red wave is an understatement pic.twitter.com/oRJkGEYYY6

— ian bremmer (@ianbremmer) November 6, 2024

Strategic Failures and Down-Ballot Neglect

Internal critiques extend to strategic missteps that left Democrats vulnerable at both national and local levels. Voters accuse party officials of focusing too narrowly on top-ticket races, abandoning down-ballot races critical for future influence.

• Down-Ballot Neglect: Voters say too many down-ballot seats went uncontested in key areas, contributing to a domino effect that bolstered Republican gains. This lack of attention to local issues, especially in swing states, draws backlash.
• Missed Outreach: Many Democrats say party leadership failed to mobilize working-class voters, particularly losing touch with Teamsters. There is frustration at the party’s seeming disinterest in engaging on local, bread-and-butter issues.

Professor/NYT columnist Tressie McMillian Cottom urges Dems to double down on identity politics "[Trump] tapped into one of the most powerful of American identities, he tapped into white identity...That means you should double down on identities of your base." pic.twitter.com/21jyTKjhMQ

— Alex Christy (@alexchristy17) November 7, 2024

Woke Versus Democrat

Democratic voter responses indicate a growing internal division. Left-leaning voters are split between support for and frustration with reactionary movements like the “4B movement,” where liberal women pledge to abstain from relationships with men who supported Trump.

• Movement Backlash: Moderate Democrats say progressive and woke movements are self-defeating, alienating young male voters and many conservative minorities who reject identity politics.
• Conservative Mockery: These reactionary movements have also faced ridicule from conservatives. Particularly the 4B movement, which they say plays into Republican messaging on family values, abstinence, and pro-life advocacy.
• Traditional Democrats: A substantial faction in the party calls for a return to traditional Democratic values over worries about alienating leftist progressives.

Outside observers and those on the right are taking the Democrats’ dramatic loss as a complete rejection of woke politics from the American electorate.

Wokeism is dead.
Identity politics is dead.
Virtue-signalling is dead.
Trump’s massive win was a total repudiation of all the far-left’s ‘progressive’ (but actually regressive) crap.
Common sense will now return to a world that had gone nuts, and thank god for that.

— Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) November 8, 2024

Election Integrity Worries

Another prominent reaction among Democratic voters centers on suspicions of election irregularities. Some suspect compromised mail-in ballots, voter ID issues, and lost votes are generating may have allowed Republicans to cheat. There are calls for reform, as Democrats grapple with the integrity of the electoral process they once championed.

• Missing Votes: Many view the disparity in voter turnout from 2020 to 2024 as suspicious, raising questions about the missing votes.
• Voter ID and Paper Ballots: In a reversal, some Democrats now call for stricter voter ID laws and paper ballots to ensure election security, a stance traditionally taken by Republicans.
• Perceived Fraud: Numerous comments suggest states Democrats lost correlate with lenient voter ID laws, intensifying voter mistrust and calls for electoral reform.

The FBI made waves on social media by announcing racist text messages targeting black students. This ignited strong reactions from voters across the political spectrum. The incident elicits different reactions from Republicans and Democrats, each viewing it through a lens of political belief and social priorities.

FBI Statement on Offensive and Racist Text Messageshttps://t.co/vpQYAO6LT7 pic.twitter.com/iDtN36WhX4

— FBI (@FBI) November 7, 2024

• Republicans emphasize personal responsibility, downplaying claims of widespread racism as a distraction from pressing issues like the economy.
• Democrats see the messages as evidence of systemic racism and call for reforms to address broader social inequities.
• Independents show mixed reactions, with some expressing frustration at the divisive narratives and calling unity.

Republicans React

On the right, voters largely interpret the reports of racist texts as “woke” overreactions. They are skeptical of racial incidents being given unwarranted attention for political gain. This group says news and federal agencies should focus on more pressing issues.

Many Republicans who already have very low trust in institutions like the FBI question the motivation for investigations. And some, including Rep. Thomas Massie, even jokingly suggest the FBI itself is creating a hoax.

It’s probably y’all sending them. Pack your bags. https://t.co/1EazekPpwI

— Thomas Massie (@RepThomasMassie) November 8, 2024

• Skepticism: 54% of Republicans see the emphasis on these incidents as politically driven. They question the motivations behind amplifying the issue, often viewing it as Democratic leaders “pouncing” to sway public opinion.
• Individual Responsibility: Many Republicans argue incidents like these reflect individual behavior, not an indictment of Republicans writ large. They emphasize personal accountability over sweeping indictments.
• Economic Concerns: 63% of Republicans tie these racial issues to a perceived neglect of bigger issues like the economy. Some see the focus on racial grievances as misdirected energy, diverting attention from unifying issues.

Conservative voters say the Democratic approach to racial issues polarizes rather than unites. They criticize focusing on identity politics at the expense of addressing more substantive issues.

Democrats React

The left sees the text messages as part of a much larger problem of systemic and cultural racism. Their responses emphasize the importance of recognizing and addressing issues in educational institutions and communities, often condemning MAGA supporters as racist.

Let me just say I’m thankful for the texts & the calls, but nothing that I do has ever been about me. The pain that I feel is for “US” collectively, as a World.

I NEVER like being wrong but I’m praying that I am… the immediate aftermath 👇🏾doesn’t give me much hope, but… pic.twitter.com/GIKTmeM9ct

— Jasmine Crockett (@JasmineForUS) November 7, 2024

• Outrage: 83% of Democratic responses voice anger toward the incident, demanding immediate action and accountability for those responsible.
• Systemic Hatred: Democrats consistently view incidents like these as symptomatic of systemic racial issues. Many also say it’s representative of Trump voters and those on the right.
• Mobilization: They call for requirements around racial sensitivity and inclusivity, particularly on college campuses. They argue inclusion training is essential to prevent incidents like these and foster equity.

For many Democrats, these reports confirm assumptions that Republicans and conservatives are largely racist. They point to jokes and memes among Republicans as contributing to the problem—including black and gay Republicans making jokes about themselves being “sent to camps” or other tropes.

Independents React

Independents generally express a desire for unity and moderation, but they are torn between the polarized narratives. Some Independents resonate with the Republican emphasis on personal responsibility, while others decry racism.

• Mixed Reactions: Some Independents are frustrated by the grave responses to what they perceive as a troll. Others call for accountability, wary of greater division through racism.
• Local Over National: Many prioritize community-level solutions, such as fostering dialogue and understanding rather than calling for systemic or partisan action.
• Practical Solutions: Some Independents express frustration with both parties, advocating for addressing local needs rather than feeding into national ideological divides.

Themes of Division and Polarization

Both Republican and Democratic voters feel a sense of betrayal but for different reasons. Those on the right accuse the left of amplifying and even fanning the flames of racism, while Democrats cry out against unacceptable and harmful language.

• Narrative Framing: Republican voters view these incidents as overblown to push a divisive agenda, while Democrats interpret them as vital warnings of entrenched national racism.
• Distrust: Voters on both sides express distrust toward opposing party motives. Republicans see this as an attempt to demonize conservatives, while Democrats see Republican resistance as complicit or enabling.
• Irreparable Division: A sense of antagonism adds to the intensity of responses, as each group sees racial issues as symbolic of broader cultural problems.

Gen Z’s response to the 2024 presidential election paints a vivid picture of a generation grappling with disillusionment, skepticism, and a desire for cultural change. Social media discussions reveal how young voters process and articulate their choices, show patterns and perspectives that define this cohort’s political identity.

Frat boys celebrating the landslide win pic.twitter.com/6OuQJSF88b

— End Wokeness (@EndWokeness) November 7, 2024

Disenfranchised vs. Empowered

There is pervasive disenchantment from both major political parties among Gen Z voters. Roughly 30% of comments express disappointment with the current political landscape, feeling alienated by traditional party structures. T

here is a noticeable frustration with the Democratic Party abandoning working-class advocacy. But some Gen Z voters are drawn to the Republican Party’s shift under Trump, viewing it as a new populist and working-class coalition.

Political dissatisfaction underscores a lack of enthusiasm for major political figures, amplifying calls for structural change in the political arena.

Leadership

Trump supporters in this demographic frequently voice desire for strong, decisive leadership. They frame him as a protector of American values, national security, and economic stability. They link his policies with the American Dream and the aspiration of a safer, more secure nation.

Language in this group often exhibits patriotic fervor, expressing loyalty and admiration toward America. Trump is seen as a figure capable of realigning the nation’s priorities to focus on traditional American ideals, creating a sense of vindication and pride.

Despite being the demographic breaking for Harris at the highest rate, Gen Z voters online are voicing pushback against many of the progressive ideals Millennials fought for at their age.

Looks like Gen X delivered the White House to Trump. pic.twitter.com/ANv5Ahssu1

— Philip Klein (@philipaklein) November 6, 2024

Fake News

A shared distrust of mainstream media surfaces as a potent unifying theme across both pro-Trump and pro-Harris Gen Z voters. This skepticism stems from collective frustration with media biases and manipulations. Many view mainstream narratives as distortions of reality.

Trump supporters often feel demonized by the media, viewing coverage as subservient to a political agenda. Harris voters feel her media portrayal doesn’t align with the real issues facing their generation.

Distrust has become a rallying point that transcends party lines, as young voters increasingly question the reliability of traditional information sources and media-driven political narratives.

Raging Against the Machine

Anxiety over election integrity drives distrust, appearing frequently in conversations from both sides of the political divide. For Trump supporters, electoral cheating is a common concern, with discussions focusing on alleged malfeasance and voter interference.

Harris supporters express disillusionment with polling and media narratives that, they feel, fail to represent genuine public sentiment. This overlap in skepticism toward institutional reliability suggests a generational shift. Many Gen Z voters voice doubts about the transparency and fairness of the political process.

🗳️ Gen Z Voters: 👍 or 👎 after the election results were announced?

Here’s what they had to say about it... 🗣️

Let us know your thoughts in the comments, Gen Z’ers. 📲#genz #vote #voters #statenisland #siny pic.twitter.com/xY5DISgo7L

— SIAdvance (@siadvance) November 6, 2024

Identity Politics? Okay!

Divides over identity politics and policy emphasis also emerge clearly in these discussions.

Harris voters point to her reliance on identity policies over actionable policies. This sentiment is particularly strong among those who lean progressive but want concrete solutions to pressing issues.

Trump supporters emphasize nationalism and traditional values, viewing Harris’s platform as detached from American identity. The ideological split reveals generational how Gen Z voters prioritize identity and inclusivity versus policy impact and nationalism.

Progressive Tension

A segment of Gen Z shows a complex response to Harris’s background, especially in discussions that merge respect for her identity with criticism of her policies. While some are proud of her accomplishments, they question her leadership, creating tension between valuing diversity and prioritizing competence.

This conflicted view suggests an evolving perspective in progressive circles, where identity is honored yet separated from expectations for impactful governance. These sentiments reflect the delicate balance Gen Z voters face between representation and meaningful action.