party-politics Articles
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A video went viral which claimed President Joe Biden may have soiled himself during the 80th Anniversary of D-Day in France. Other videos showed First Lady Jill Biden swiftly leading the president away while French President Macron thanked veterans.
MIG Reports analysis of social media commentary shows different interpretations of what Joe Biden was doing in the video, like many of his well-publicized gaffes. Most of the online speculation is based on unverified rumors and has not been officially confirmed or denied by any credible sources.
Because online discussion is so fractured, it's difficult to discern a majority consensus on whether people actually believe Biden experienced such an embarrassing mishap as incontinence. The political nature of conversations about president and his questionable cognition, as well as the overall mockery and humorous tones of social media make people’s true beliefs somewhat opaque.
Most Americans seem to believe the claim that Biden soiled his pants and take it as an opportunity to fuel political debate and criticisms. Many openly ridicule Biden with profane language and derisive commentary. Some Biden defenders dismiss the claim, but only citing their reasons as emphasizing more serious issues like the necessity to impeach Biden.
Despite rampant online memeing and speculations, no official denials have been made by White House officials.
Discussion and Sentiment Trends
There is an undeniable presence of derisive rhetoric from Biden's detractors. They use phrases like "poopy pants" and "filled his adult diaper" when talking about the video. Some insinuate Biden's inability to control bodily functions is evidence of weakness or mental decline.
On the other hand, some dismiss the accusations as baseless and criticize those who spread such rumors. They emphasize a lack of concrete evidence for the claim, pushing back against unfounded speculations. They emphasize other issues they believe should take precedence over personal ridicule, like impeachment inquiries and political wrongdoings.
Alternative Analysis
Some media outlets reported the incident as simply a momentary lapse in judgement. They say the president thought there was a chair behind him. Additional reporting from liberal blogs and op-eds crafted stories to shift away from the viral mockery, such as “Joe Biden Didn’t Poop Himself But These Celebs Did.” Other outlets had body language experts weigh in.
Overall distrust in liberal and mainstream media suggests Americans who believe Biden’s senior moment was more embarrassing than searching for a missing chair would not be swayed by media spin.
07
Jun
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Vice President Kamala Harris recently appeared on Jimmy Kimmel Live and made waves with her comments about former president Trump’s conviction. Among other things, the VP said, “The reality is, cheaters don’t like getting caught,” referring to Trump and implying he cheated in the 2016 election.
Many Americans took her comments as an admission that continued prosecutions against Trump are politically motivated and retributive. Much of the response displays contempt and dissatisfaction towards her and Joe Biden's administration with accusations of lying, weakening the country, and serving their own self-interests — a common sentiment when the Vice President speaks publicly.
While conservatives reacted negatively to Harris’s comments about Trump and liberals cheered, pro-Palestine protesters overshadowed the conversation. Video emerged on social media showing protesters interrupting the Jimmy Kimmel Live taping to shout at Harris saying, “Stop the genocide” and “15,000 children dead because of you.”
Kamala Harris gets heckled on Jimmy Kimmel.
— Libs of TikTok (@libsoftiktok) June 6, 2024
The Left’s infighting is glorious to watch pic.twitter.com/IIXxSzZSZHMost of the reactions to the video are from progressive Democrats who agree with the protesters or conservatives who enjoy the hilarity of Democrat infighting.
What People Are Saying About Harris on Kimmel
Conversations about the VP’s late night TV appearance predominantly disapprove. Conservatives and Trump supporters are critical of Harris's statements and liberals dislike her actions regarding Israel.
People argue over Trump’s conviction, Biden's potential corruption, the Biden-Harris Administration's current policies, and questions about their allegiance towards America. Anti-Trump conversation skews more positively towards Harris's remarks. This group says Trump was found guilty by a jury of his peers and the trial was a necessary measure ensuring justice is served.
Usually liberals, those agreeing with Harris frame the conviction as the consequence for breaking the law and claim nobody is above the law. They criticize suggestions of political persecution as attempts to destroy democracy and undermine the justice system.
More conservative and Republican-leaning voters view Harris's statement with outrage, denial, or frustration. Many have frequently accused her and other Democrats of being driven by bias against Trump. They believe accusations that Trump cheated in the election are false and believe his prosecutions are politically motivated witch hunts.
- Kamala Harris’s typically low approval saw a slight boost after her Kimmel appearance, suggesting anti-Trump viewers approved of her comments.
- However, Donald Trump’s national approval has held steady and even increased since his conviction, suggesting many believe in Democrats having political motivations.
Belief in a Weaponized Court
Many voters express continued strong support for Trump, endorsing his candidacy for the 2024 presidency. They also criticize the Biden Administration and the current state of the nation. These voters accuse Democrats and the deep state of corruption, interfering in elections, ignoring laws, and politicizing the court system.
There is a palpable belief that Trump was unfairly targeted and condemned to hamper his campaign rather than any actual misconduct. People say the conviction is an abuse of power by the Democrats to target their political opponents and a disastrous violation of norms. They compare ongoing lawfare to actions seen in authoritarian regimes.
MIG Reports analysis suggest most Americans believe the justice system has been weaponized for partisan reasons. Those on the left believe the courts are biased in Trump’s favor. Those on the right believe Democrats are using a corrupt judiciary to attack their political opponents.
- On the day of Trump’s conviction in New York, national sentiment towards “weaponization of government,” dropped dramatically.
- Sentiment went from the around 44% the week before to 37% on the day Trump was convicted, suggesting many people viewed the trial as an abuse of the court system.
07
Jun
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Recent reporting revealed quiet steps the Biden administration has taken regarding asylum cases, angering voters. The executive order partially suspends asylum requests at the U.S.-Mexico border when unauthorized crossings exceed 2,500 foreigners a day (912,000 a year). However, the suspension excludes two key immigration classes:
- Unaccompanied children
- Credible Fear applicants (an immigration process which leads to asylum)
Executive guidance for handling Credible Fear applicants suggests it will likely result in a loophole that still allows asylum, even beyond the daily crossings cap. In the minds of many Americans, the effectively creates mass amnesty without regard to voters desires to close the border.
Furthermore, since 2022, more than 350,000 asylum cases were closed by the U.S. government for those who don’t have a criminal record or are otherwise not deemed a threat to the country. A Venezuelan illegal alien who shot two NYPD officers was among the 350,000 to have his case closed, causing objections to what are deemed as threats to the country.
MIG Reports analysis of voter reactions shows a continuing distrust in current border policies and the Biden administration.
Immigration Issues
There are recurring discussions about the border wall initiated under former President Trump's administration. Many who view the border as a crisis would like to see it completed. However, discussions about the border wall indicate a consensus that a physical barrier is not the full solution to border control issues. Most believe we need a more sophisticated approach to managing the U.S. border.
Some voters express disapproval of the Republican Party's stance on the border crisis. They accuse the GOP of voicing their grievances but not acting decisively when given the opportunity to pass a bill. The frustration and dissatisfaction seems to come from both sides.
There are disparate views on the effectiveness of Trump's border policies and the border wall. Some argue Trump was successful in reducing illegal crossings and accuse Democrats of hindering border control efforts. The sentiment here is defensive and leans towards praise for Trump's efforts.
In general, both political parties blame the other side for issues at the border.
Border Security
Online conversations show overwhelming negativity towards the open borders policy, rampant illegal immigration, and the resulting consequences under the Biden administration. There is a high volume of posts calling for stricter immigration regulations, deportations, and blaming illegal immigrants for crime. Negative sentiment towards Biden is particularly strong, with allegations of dishonesty and perceived political maneuvering.
A minority of voters challenge the idea that current policies promote open borders, accusing critics of lying or of manufacturing political controversies. Usually Democrats, this group tends to question the integrity of politicians or citizens making open borders claims.
06
Jun
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The start of June kicked off liberal celebrations for “Pride” month, which has a history of contentious reception from Americans. Many feel Pride month is over-politicized, accusing political ideologies and agendas of using it for virtue signaling and pandering. There are also many who question the need for such a drawn-out recognition of LGBT issues, suggesting these groups already have the same rights as everyone else.
MIG Reports conducted an in-depth look at America’s reaction to Pride month using AI to curate and analyze public discussion. The broad delineation of opinions tends to align with political and social ideologies. Liberals and progressives fully support Pride and LGBT issues, with a few caveats.
Conservatives and Christians are more likely to object to the permeation of activist gender and sexual ideologies into American culture. They tend to argue the imposition of Pride month undermines freedom of thought and belief, creating an environment where only one perspective is considered acceptable.
Many others, including some in the LGBT community are voicing concerns about the perceived sexualization and increased vulgarity of Pride events. They say the exhibitionist aspects detract from the original purpose of Pride, which was to advocate for equal rights for gays and lesbians.
- Most Americans seem to agree that gays and lesbians have been fully accepted into modern society, arguing objections are ideological.
- With the start of June, online discussion of LGBT topics significantly increased, as did public sentiment.
- Sentiment towards transgender ideology, however, dipped slightly at the end of May and feelings around ideologies remained in the low 40% range.
Key Discussions
There are a range of conversations related to Pride month and LGBT issues online. Many are either fully supportive or severely negative. Some of the recurring themes include:
False Activism and Opportunism
Some people express skepticism of famous personalities like Taylor Swift wishing Happy Pride month, considering it a result of opportunism rather than true support. Many also accuse politicians and corporations of advancing unrelated policies or issues on the back of Pride, coopting the movement.
Ironic Pushback
Much of the response from those critical of Pride month is satirical or ironic. Some of it may be genuine, but the lines of irony are increasingly blurred. Some suggest, given the increased visibility of LGBT Pride, it might be time to formally recognize and celebrate “Heterosexual Awesomeness Month.”
LGBTQ+ Infighting
There also seems to be a disconnect or misunderstanding between the different sectors within the community. There are concerns about an over-focus on trans issues at the expense of lesbian and gay rights. These allegations assert certain factions in the LGBT community are undermining the progress made in gay rights and causing Americans to object.
Liberals and Progressives Participate and Fight
Socially liberal and politically progressive Americans vocally support Pride month with a special emphasis on transgender issues. There is discussion around trans women and their right to be treated as women, strongly condemning perceived attempts to deny their identity and rights.
However, while many left leaning Americans support Pride, there are growing areas of dissention on the left:
Leftist Ideologies at War
Some progressives on the far left argue Pride month has been commercialized. They say corporations and mainstream society use it as a marketing tool. They feel used rather than genuinely supported, calling it capitalism “gone wrong” as businesses glom onto Pride iconography.
Performative Allyship
Similarly, there is frustration on the left at performative, capitalistic, or hypocritical, allyship from politicians and other public figures. There are accusations that professed allies lack a concrete track record of supporting LGBTQ+ rights or have previously engaged in activities deemed harmful to the community.
Gays and Lesbians Revolt
More moderate gays and lesbians are questioning the increasingly prevalent political and social emphasis on transgender issues. They feel ideologically driven activism is overshadowing or undermining their rights, achievements, and concerns. As a result, they are distancing themselves from transgender and similarly woke issues.
Palestine Protests Versus Pride
Progressive anti-Israel protesters are also clashing with Pride events. Pro-Palestine demonstrators blocking Pride gatherings exacerbate the sense of fracture on the left regarding Israel. This group view their protests as a necessary disruption to bring attention to the plight of Palestinians.
Conservative Critiques of Pride
Liberals and progressives are not the only ones taking issue with modern Pride initiatives. Conservatives and Christians have long been critics of the increasing push to normalize LGBT issues. Some of their complaints include:
Special Treatment Arguments
Some argue LGBT individuals have the same rights as everyone else. They view Pride Month as unnecessary or a form of “special treatment” in which this protected class receives pandering. Most of this group views Pride month as excessively long and divisive or unequal.
Criticisms of Vulgarity
Many Americans view Pride month as diverging from its original meaning. They say it’s now overly focused on trans issues, fetishism, and exhibitionism. They object to the increasingly vulgar displays foisted on the public in the name of “equality.”
Political and Religious Arguments
Large segments of religious America also oppose Pride due to religious their beliefs. They frequently believe that homosexuality, bisexuality, and other queer lifestyles, are not morally right. They object to secular, progressive values being forced on them during what some are calling “Liberal Holy Month.”
Influence on children
Critics also express concerns about the influence of Pride and LGBT activism on young people. They say public celebrations and dogmatic promotion of increasingly divergent sexual orientations and gender identities only confuse children. They argue these events inappropriately expose kids to sexual content.
The Role of Corporations
Like some liberals, conservatives also criticize corporations. Their objection, however, is more about the imposition of LGBT pandering during the month of June. Conservatives dislike brands who make rainbow logos and products prominent, forcing the public to view and engage with material the disagree with.
06
Jun
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Recent reporting on Boston Mayor Michelle Wu's potential decision to give children a role in budgeting priorities is being mocked online. The program, which was approved in 2021, aims to include all residents in budget participation, even kids as young as 11. Boston City Council members are also criticizing Wu, calling the plan “unserious” and “wholly inappropriate.”
Not just a political issue, many apolitical citizens are criticizing the move with the same arguments many right leaning partisans are using. Liberals are also apprehensive of supporting the plan. While some consider the proposal inclusive, others vehemently oppose it. For the most part, progressives are either silent on the issue or pushing back.
While there is general negativity toward a participatory budgeting process, most of the negative reactions are from conservatives and Republicans who criticize liberal leaders. Many seem concerned about the concentration of power and the potential influence of leftist ideologies in the decision-making process. There are strong references to the concept of "wokeness" and its impact on these decisions.
Many view the proposed plan as the result of ideological pushes toward diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), with some framing it as possible indoctrination. Some of these reactions also follow larger discussion trends amongst conservatives regarding freedom of speech.
Positive reactions predominantly come from those who hold progressive or left-wing ideologies. They point to inclusivity, representation, and potential contributions to the betterment of society, praising the decision. This group seems more enthusiastic about child involvement, often framing it as a necessary step towards a more diverse and fair society.
This inclusive view is not representative of all Democratic Party members, though. Council Member Ed Flynn (D) published a letter to Director Renato Castelo saying, "I am writing to again emphasize my unequivocal and vehement opposition to the voting process for project proposals from the Office of Participatory Budgeting, particularly in allowing residents as young as 11 years-old to vote for projects to be earmarked.”
There are also responses that are not politically motivated. This group is concerned with the logistical and practical implications of participatory budgeting. They question the decision-making abilities of children and whether they have the necessary understanding and maturity to make these choices.
05
Jun
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Immediately following his widely controversial conviction in New York City, former president Donald Trump:
- Raised more than $200 million.
- Created a TikTok account and gained 4.1 million followers.
- Continued to climb in betting markets for the 2024 Presidential election.
Since the end of May, Polymarket odds show Trump above a 50% chance at the presidency, hitting 56% over the weekend.
MIG Reports analysis shows Trump’s conviction created a significant and increasing level of support from his followers, despite the legal troubles. This is evident from various voter groups emerging on social media demonstrating overwhelming support directly because of the verdict. It appears the conviction has served to galvanize his support base.
From posts on social media, many of his supporters view his conviction as a political move by Democrats to "get Trump.” This view is echoed across various posts and groups, framing the entire legal process as a leftist attempt to target Trump. Many compare the legal measures against Trump to a lack of action against other political figures on the left, further cementing the view of political bias in the justice system.
There is a suggestion that political attacks against Trump have made MAGA stronger, implying the adversity is energizing Americans against Democrats. A sense of being “on the attack” over the perceived victimization of Trump is overwhelming in online discussions, particularly in those referring to Trump as an outlaw and a strong American.
Many voters suggest the election in November will see Trump return as President, indicating an expectation of his perseverance. Many also reminisce about his leadership, wishing to see him back in office, despite the conviction. Many are also talking about the major influx in campaign contributions post-conviction, underscoring the financial support backing him.
There are some posts critical of Trump and his supporters, describing his followers as a cult, decrying the narrative that he is a victim. Many among the opposition take every opportunity to refer to him as a convicted felon. It appears, however, that these criticisms are outweighed by the volume of support shown for Trump in the aftermath of the conviction.
04
Jun
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MIG Reports analysis of Donald Trump’s conviction in New York City shows a continued negative reaction through the weekend. Fury is largely influenced by conservative and less progressive demographics expressing dissatisfaction with the trial and beliefs the process was unjust and politically motivated.
Discussion Trends
A lot of the conversation is highly partisan with right leaning comments often criticizing liberals, the court, and other institutions involved in the decision.
Some voters believe the unjust Trump conviction is a step towards communism and an attack on conservative values.
There is a palpable sentiment of deep division within the country, often illustrated through derogatory language, and a complete disconnect in the interpretation of events by both sides of the aisle.
Sentiment Trends
One clear trend a sense of disappointment and dissatisfaction with both the Democratic Party and the Biden administration. This is expressed through repeated criticism and anger towards Biden, expressions of disagreement with his policies, and criticism of his administration’s political maneuvers and lawfare. Many show support for a Trump comeback and tend to downplay or dismiss his legal issues.
Liberals and progressives express a more disjointed sentiment. Some celebrate the conviction as a win for democracy and justice, while others raise issues about social divisiveness stemming from political polarization. Far left and progressive voters sometimes express dissatisfaction about perceived insufficiency or inadequacy of systemic changes the conviction may bring.
Accusations Against the Uniparty
- Conversations frame Trump's conviction as perpetrated by a system run by a corrupt bipartisan "uniparty." Many believe the uniparty or the deep state aims to consolidate power—and most view the Republican party as complicit.
- Most discussion comes from Trump supporters who view him as fighting against this corrupt establishment. The verdict reinforces support for him and decreases sentiment towards Biden due to his perceived association with the uniparty.
Rule of Law
- The largest volume of conversation refers to Trump's conviction being a result of political bias and legal system misuse.
- Most voters express dissatisfaction with Democrats and Biden, while a minority support the conviction. They view the entire trial as a breakdown of the rule of law.
- Those who approve of the verdict view it as justified and mostly support the current administration. Notably there seems to be very little middle ground on this issue, with most voters either strongly in favor or strongly opposed.
- Some sub-groups believe Republicans are undermining the constitution and rule of law, increasing support for Biden and decreasing support for the GOP.
- As a result of disillusionment and distrust of the system, there is discontent with politicians like House Speaker Mike Johnson and Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg for their perceived bias and corruption.
Deep State
- Conversations about Trump's potential conviction are emotionally charged and polarized, often reflecting selective viewpoints, depending on the echo chamber.
- Trump supporters discuss corruption involving the "deep state," Democrats, and CIA, expressing dissatisfaction and viewing the conviction as unjust.
- Trump critics see the potential conviction as a form of justice, feeling satisfaction at his possible downfall. This may also suggest motives are skewed away from solely seeking justice but influenced by a partisan outlook.
04
Jun
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With a bombshell guilty verdict in former President Donald Trump’s New York trial, voter discussions emerged around preventing Trump from becoming the GOP nominee. Some prominent voices promoting this idea include:
Today's verdict is a fire-bell in the night. The Republican Party now has one last chance to change course, and not nominate a convicted felon for President.
— John Bolton (@AmbJohnBolton) May 30, 2024It is not easy to see a former President and the presumptive GOP nominee convicted of felony crimes; but the jury verdict should be respected. An appeal is in order but let’s not diminish the significance of this verdict.
— Gov. Asa Hutchinson (@AsaHutchinson) May 30, 2024There are also numerous other non-public social media profiles discuss installing previous primary candidates such as Ron DeSantis, Nikki Haley, and Vivek Ramaswamy.
MIG Reports analysis shows discussion of possibility of the Republican National Convention becoming a brokered convention or the Republican National Committee selecting a candidate other than Trump. Sentiment is primarily against the Democratic Party, with some comparing the party to a communist or socialist regime and voicing concerns that it is damaging the country.
Most voters express strong disagreement with the idea of the Republican National Committee choosing a different candidate. This suggests a strong loyalty to Trump among much of the Republican base. This potency of commitment suggests any decision to field an alternate candidate could result in substantial backlash or fracturing within the party.
There is also significant fear that the USA is turning into a "communist state," with people pointing out real or perceived similarities between the current Democratic Party strategies and historical actions of communist regimes. Some also mention a Republican Party which they fear harbors anti-Trump sentiment. Deviations from the Trump-led mainstream in the Republican party are also characterized as betrayals.
There are frequent mentions of the 2020 election being stolen and calls for direct action to "take America back." Voters repeatedly compare the current Democratic Party’s actions to the Nazi party under Adolf Hitler, particularly in relation to alleged suppression of free speech.
It is evident that emotions around this conversation are severe, with deep conviction among many inside and outside the GOP.
Swing States
Pro-Trump supporters are aggressive in their response, expressing deep loyalty to the former president and declaring their continued support. They portray Trump as a selfless patriot who risks his personal status and wealth for the sake of the American people. Their posts and hashtags, like #Trump2024, #MAGA, #MakeAmericaGreatAgain, suggest they see a future for Trump in leadership. They view any wrongdoing alleged against Trump as part of a witch hunt, orchestrated by liberal courts and the media, drawing on rhetoric used by Trump himself. They express disdain for Republican politicians who wish to distance themselves from Trump, accusing them of aligning with Democrats and having a secret agenda.
Supporters also voice concerns about the perceived erosion of American government and governance, accusing the state and its institutions of moving towards communism. For them, any attempt to sideline or convict Trump is seen as an attack on the American people's will and the constitution. Many suggest there will be a surge in Trump's popularity and predict backlash in upcoming elections.
Critics of Trump are pleased with the prospect of the Republican National Committee selecting an alternative candidate. They argue justice is being served with the charges against him. They do not sympathize with the narrative presented by his supporters, and instead, view Trump as a threat to democracy.
Despite the differences, there is a common narrative of the situation as a moment of crisis for the American republic - either through alleged political persecution and suppression or through the potential re-emergence of a figure they see as an ideological threat. Ultimately, the comments underscore the deep divides within the American political landscape.
03
Jun
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After a New York Times article speculating Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito revealed sympathy for January 6 protesters with an upside-down flag at his home, liberals are calling for his recusal. Amid escalating political turmoil and wavering trust in the justice system, partisan arguments are breaking out between the left and the right.
Reactions to the media reporting and Democrat calls for recusal can primarily be divided along political lines. Those who support Democrats argue Alito's actions have demonstrated bias and breach of conduct. Republicans and those on the right label the recusal outcry as a politically motivated on conservative Justices.
Liberal Outcry Against Justice Alito
Left leaning voters tend to see the call for Alito’s recusal as entirely justified. They cite a belief in his partisan bias and claim he involves himself in political activities outside of his judicial duties. They argue for the necessity of maintaining impartiality and integrity in the judiciary, calling for transparency and accountability from judges. They also voice concern about the potential corruption of the judicial system, applying this fear specifically to Alito.
Mainstream media outlets and Democrats insist Alito’s refusal to recuse himself brings up concerns of fairness. They accuse his wife of sympathizing with January 6 protests by her flag choices, citing this as a violation of judicial ethics.
Conservative Reactions to the Idea of Alito’s Recusal
Most right leaning Americans take umbrage at the idea that Justice Alito should recuse himself for an unfounded rumor which they consider a nonstory. Republicans are more likely to see Democrat arguments as part of a larger-scale effort to control and manipulate judicial systems to their advantage.
Those on the right view accusations against Justice Alito as an attempt to undermine the balance of power on a Supreme Court with a conservative majority. There are also vocal questions and accusations about Democrats’ political motivations in attacking Alito.
Conservatives argue calls for Alito’s recusal are highly hypocritical when contrasted with Democrat reactions to judges like Arthur Engoron or Juan Merchan – who both side with Democrats in their judicial decisions.
Double Standards Applied to Conservatives
Critics who oppose Alito’s recusal highlight Democrat hypocrisy. They point to alleged ethical violations by liberal judges such as Judge Merchan, which Democrats dismiss as inconsequential.
Those on the left claim to seek a stronger ethical code and accountability in the judiciary for figures like Justice Alito. However, many point to this as an outrageous inconsistency that is exclusively applied to conservatives.
Accusations of double standards are especially stark as voters on all sides voice concern with the allegations against Judge Merchan. Many are calling for thorough investigations into connections with his daughter and her financial dealings regarding Trump’s recent New York trial.
However, conversations about Judge Merchan have not generated the same amount of outcry as Justice Alito's controversy. Some critics perceive this as a display of political bias against conservatives by the media and Democrats. They accuse both of overlooking and under reporting ethical violations from liberal judges and becoming hysterical about benign issues like the flag choices at the Alito home.
02
Jun