The term "Christian Nationalism" has been increasingly used in public discourse, particularly by liberals, democrats, and leftists. While it is difficult to pinpoint exactly who coined the term, it is apparent that these groups have adopted and weaponized its usage for strategic political purposes.

 Christian Nationalism is often used to describe a political ideology that merges Christian faith with American patriotism, advocating for the establishment of either a Christian state or a state guided by Christian values. However, the term is being leveraged by liberals to paint conservative Christians as extremists or fundamentalists who are seeking to impose their religious beliefs on the nation.

Critics are now adopting the term as a way to call out what they see as an attempt to undermine the secular nature of the state and promote a form of religious exclusivity.

The strategic use of the term "Christian Nationalism" may be part of a wider effort to frame certain political ideologies as extreme or detrimental to the principles of a secular and inclusive democracy. By associating Christian Nationalism with far right or extremist movements, the mainstream may be trying to delegitimize the positions held by some conservatives, framing them as a threat to democratic norms.

This analysis does not conclude that all criticisms of Christian Nationalism are unfounded or politically motivated. However, there seems to be a concerted effort to lump all Christians and American patriots under the umbrella of Christian Nationalism, which is largely understood negatively.

On the right, the term is also contentious. Some Christians and conservatives totally reject the term. Others adopt it but push back on the negative connotations, justifying their beliefs as nonthreatening. 

Messaging Analysis

Sentiment about Christian Nationalism is somewhat dependent on its framing. It is either perceived as a patriotic expression of religious freedom or a threat to democratic principles and social equality.

People tend to understand Christian nationalism as either a cultural issue or a political issue. The rise of social justice movements, the political climate, and the portrayal of Christian Nationalism in media and political discourse all play significant roles in shaping these sentiments. 

Republicans

A large group of Republicans support Christian Nationalism as they believe it aligns with their core values of religious freedom, patriotism, and conservative moral values. They often link Christian Nationalism to the preservation of American heritage and the upholding of traditional family structures.

Sentiment increases among Republicans when Christian Nationalism is presented as a defense against perceived threats to religious freedom, such as the "woke" culture or progressive social policies. However, sentiment decreases when Christian Nationalism is associated with extremist actions or intolerance towards other religious or ethnic groups.

Democrats

Most Democrats view Christian Nationalism as a threat to the separation of church and state. They claim it could lead to discrimination against non-Christian and marginalized groups. For Democrats, negativity strengthens against Christian Nationalism when it is linked to extremist actions, such as the Capitol Hill riot, and decreases when it is presented as a matter of religious freedom or patriotism.

Independents

Independents have mixed views on Christian Nationalism. Their sentiment generally increases when Christian Nationalism is associated with the broader freedom of religious expression. It decreases when it is linked to extremist actions, intolerance, or breaches of the church-state separation.

Diversity in Christian Nationalism

For Black and Hispanic communities, views on Christian Nationalism are more complex and nuanced. Generally, these communities also exhibit high levels of religious participation, particularly in Christian denominations. However, their views on Christian Nationalism can diverge significantly with the perception of Christian Nationalism as racial grouping.

Among Black Christians, for instance, there is often a strong emphasis on social justice, reflecting a long history of activism in the Black church. This can sometimes lead to a rejection of Christian Nationalism, perceived as a political tool to maintain white supremacy and socio-economic inequalities. Nevertheless, there are also pockets within the Black Christian community that support aspects of Christian Nationalism, particularly around social conservatism.

The Hispanic community, on the other hand, is extremely diverse, with a broad spectrum of views on Christian Nationalism. Some Hispanic Christians, particularly those of a more conservative persuasion, may align with Christian Nationalist ideals, particularly around issues such as pro-life and traditional family values. However, others may reject this ideology, citing concerns around immigration policy and social justice.

Talking About - American Values

Sentiment - American Values

After both President Biden and former President Trump visited the Texas border, immigration talk online has surged to the top issue for both politicians. Reactions are scattered, mostly along party lines. But Biden’s approval on immigration continues to lag behind Trump’s.

• Border security was the most talked about issue for both men in the last 24 hours.
• Trumps approval on the border is 49% and Biden’s is 45%.
• Around 19,000 people were talking about the border online in the last 24 hours.
• Trump’s overall support remains slightly above Biden, although both received a slight bump after their border appearances.

Biden Perceived as “Shuffling” to the Border

A majority of people are expressing frustration and anger towards Biden's border policies. The comments about Biden's visit are also largely negative.

People are discussing the contrast of Biden at the border versus Trump at the border, saying Biden looked frail and fragile. There are some outcries by liberals who, instead of defending Biden’s mental and physical fitness, accuse Trump of being in worse condition.

There is also significant related discussion around Biden’s overall health and recent medical exam. Many voters are suggesting they don’t have confidence in Biden’s doctor’s assessment. They point out his appearance at the border did nothing to persuade them of Biden’s physical vigor.

Many people say they fear the potential impact of Biden’s frailty on his ability to handle complex and volatile international situations, including border security.

A lot of discussion also revolves around the murder of Laken Riley, a 22-year-old woman allegedly murdered by an illegal immigrant. This incident appears to have triggered a wave of outrage, with many blaming Biden's immigration policies for such tragedies.

People across political aisles are starting to argue that the Biden administration's open border policy and the reversal of Trump's immigration policies have led to an increase in illegal immigration and associated crimes. Some accuse Biden of prioritizing illegal immigrants over American citizens, suggesting they are more valuable due to their potential to vote for Democrats.

There is still a significant portion of Biden supporters who defend his approach to the border and his recent appearance. They argue that no president has managed to completely stop illegal immigration. They suggest that the current border crisis is also the fault of Republicans who failed to vote on a bipartisan border bill.

• Biden’s approval increased slightly with his border visit, reaching 46%.
• This is up from a meager 33% approval a week ago.

Trump Seen as Highly Entertaining at the Border

The overall discussion of Trump's border visit is positive. People praise his actions, voicing their desire for his return to office. Voters often feel that Trump was more proactive in dealing with border issues and that his approach was more effective.

Many people perceived Trump’s border visit as upbeat and entertaining – especially his jovial wave to Mexicans on the other side of the border fence. There were comments suggesting that one does not have to like Trump to be amused by his showmanship.

There is also significant support for Trump's approach to immigration policies. People are enthusiastic about his commitment to deporting illegal immigrants who break U.S. laws and his efforts to stop the flow of illegal crossings. Many voters say Trump's policies, like the "Remain in Mexico" policy, were effective in reducing illegal immigration and should be reinstated.

While much of the discussion about Trump’s border visit was positive, there are still many voices criticizing him. This group mocks his supporters and claim that Biden is doing a better job. They argue that the former president's health is a cause for concern and accuse him of leaning over during his visit. Mostly Democrats, these defenders favorably compare Biden to FDR, who was wheelchair-bound during his presidency. They dismiss concerns about Biden's health and criticize his detractors for focusing on his physical condition.

• Trump’s approval on border security increased with his visit, reaching 48%.
• This is up from a steady 45% for most of the week.

The Supreme Court's decision to hear former President Donald Trump's claim of immunity from prosecution has stirred up a maelstrom of reactions across the political spectrum.

Many Democrats reacted with outrage, viewing the decision as an unwarranted delay in bringing Trump to justice. They argue that the Supreme Court, particularly those Justices appointed by Trump, are aiding and abetting him by providing a legal lifeline. They fear this decision could further delay the trial on election interference charges, possibly even past the 2024 election. This sentiment is shared by some independents, who also express disappointment in the Supreme Court's handling of the case.

However, many Republicans view the decision as a necessary step in the due process of law. They argue that the Supreme Court is doing its due diligence by considering Trump's unprecedented immunity claim rather than rushing to judgment. They also counter arguments about biased Justices by pointing out that Trump's appointments to the court were fully within his presidential powers. 

Demographic Differences Regarding the SCOTUS Case

On a broader demographic level, younger voters or progressives are more likely to express anger and frustration at the perceived delay in justice. Older or more conservative voters tend to value the deliberative process of the court. 

Other demographic breakdowns show a pattern of support or opposition largely along party lines. However, the issue of presidential immunity is a complex one and does not neatly fall along partisan lines. For instance, some Republicans who value the rule of law may be critical of Trump's immunity claim. And some liberals who are wary of the expansion of executive power may view it with sympathy.

For those who were already critical of Trump, the decision has only reinforced their negative views. For those who support Trump, the decision has been a source of frustration and has contributed to their perception of the judiciary as being biased against the former president.

While there are general partisan trends, there are pockets within each group who may hold differing views. For instance, some Republicans have expressed concern about potential long-term damage to the party's reputation. And some Democrats recognize the importance of the court's decision in establishing a legal precedent for future presidents.

In the wake of Mitch McConnell’s announcement that he plans to step down as Senate Republican leader in November, discussion about a potential replacement has been growing. Many Republicans express satisfaction that McConnell is departing and advocate for a staunchly conservative, America First candidate to take his place.

Many GOP voters have voiced their disapproval of McConnell, labeling him a RINO and accusing him of aiding the Democratic agenda. Critics frequently call for a more conservative candidate to replace him. Often, people call for someone who aligns with former President Trump's policies and has not been in Congress for decades.

Some of the most frequently mentioned candidates include John Cornyn who has a positive reputation. But many voters in the discussion are strongly opposed to this idea, characterizing him as another RINO. Other names being floated are Josh Hawley, JD Vance, and Rand Paul. Vance and Paul are particularly favored by participants who want to see a break from the establishment and a shift towards more conservative, America First policies.

Other names being mentioned include Rick Scott, Tom Cotton, John Thune, John Barrasso, Steve Daines, Ted Cruz, and Ron Johnson.

There's also a concern expressed about the potential for Kentucky's Democratic Governor, Andy Beshear, to appoint a liberal to McConnell's Senate seat. This worry dovetails with a more general fear that McConnell's departure might lead to the appointment of another establishment Republican rather than a more right-leaning figure.

Overall, the discussion shows a desire for change within the GOP, with many people hoping for a shift away from established figures and towards candidates who more strongly align with Trump's policies.

Rand Paul

Rand Paul is known for his libertarian views and fiscal conservatism, which is attractive to some constituents.

Positives and Negatives

He often advocates for smaller government and individual liberties. His stance on immigration is traditionally conservative, advocating for secure borders. However, his sometimes controversial stances and combative style can be off-putting to others.

• Rand Paul’s approval has fluctuated in the last week, sitting at 51% yesterday.
• Discussion volume also increased in the last couple of days, reaching 255 yesterday.

John Cornyn

The Texas senator is highly respected within his party and is known for his ability to work across the aisle.

Positives and Negatives

He is known for his conservative stances, particularly on issues like immigration and border security due to his state's proximity to the Mexico border. However, he may not be as well-known nationally as some of the other contenders.

• John Cornyn’s approval has dropped slightly in the last week, sitting at 49% yesterday.
• Discussion volume increased however, reaching 245 yesterday.

J.D. Vance

Vance is a junior United States senator from Ohio and an author and venture capitalist.

Positives and Negatives

He’s known as the author of "Hillbilly Elegy" and has gained significant attention for his commentary on the working class in America. People like his focus on working-class issues. However, his lack of political experience could be a disadvantage.

• J.D. Vance’s approval has risen in the last week, sitting at 49% yesterday.
• Discussion volume is down however, dropping to 178 yesterday.

Josh Hawley

The Missouri senator is a rising star in the Republican party and is known for his populist rhetoric.

Positives and Negatives

He’s known as one of the younger members of the Senate and is seen as a rising star in the Republican Party. People like his populist stances and criticism of big tech companies. However, his involvement questioning the 2020 election has been controversial.

• Josh Hawley’s approval has dropped slightly in the last week, sitting at 44% yesterday.
• Discussion volume increased however, reaching 940 yesterday.

Rick Scott

As the senator from Florida and the former governor of the state, Rick Scott has a strong political background.

Positives and Negatives

He’s known for his conservative political stances. He is strongly against illegal immigration and supports border security measures. However, his tenure as governor was marked by controversy and scandals, which could impact his chances.

• Rick Scott’s approval has risen in the last week, sitting at 47% yesterday.
• Discussion volume is up, reaching 282 yesterday.

Tom Cotton

The Arkansas senator is considered a rising star in the Republican party, with a strong record on national security and defense.

Positives and Negatives

He’s known for his hawkish foreign policy stances and conservative views on immigration, advocating for restrictions and enhanced border security. However, his hardline stances on immigration and other issues could potentially alienate moderate voters.

• Tom Cotton’s approval has fluctuated in the last week, sitting at 45% yesterday.
• Discussion volume is slightly down, hitting 111 yesterday.

John Thune

As the current Senate Majority Whip, Thune has a strong leadership background.

Positives and Negatives

He is generally well-liked within his party and is valued for his conservative stances. But some see him as too moderate and not aggressive enough in challenging Democrats.

• John Thune’s approval has increased in the last few days, sitting at 51% yesterday.
• Discussion volume is low but increasing, reaching 45 yesterday.

John Barrasso

The Wyoming senator is a strong conservative with a focus on energy and environmental issues.

Positives and Negatives

He is known for his focus on energy and environmental policy, often opposing regulations seen as harmful to his state's fossil fuel industry. However, his low profile could be a disadvantage in a leadership race.

• John Barrasso’s approval has increased in the last few days, sitting at 52% yesterday.
• Discussion volume is low but increasing, reaching 107 yesterday.

Steve Daines

The Montana senator is known for his business background and has been a strong supporter of President Trump.

Positives and Negatives

He’s known for advocating for limited government and tax cuts. However, his lack of seniority in the Senate could be a disadvantage since the last NRSC chairman who went on to be Majority Leader was Bill Frist in 2003.

• Steve Daines’s approval has dipped in the last few days, sitting at 48% yesterday.
• Discussion volume was low at 45 yesterday.

Ted Cruz

Cruz, as Senator and former presidential candidate name recognition, has a passionate base of support.

Positives and Negatives

He's known for his involvement in the Tea Party movement and seen as a conservative firebrand. People like his strong advocacy for border security. However, his combative style and involvement in efforts to question the 2020 election could be a liability.

• Ted Cruz’s approval is fairly steady, but ticked up slightly to 48% yesterday.
• Discussion volume is among the highest at 974 yesterday.

Ron Johnson

The Wisconsin senator is known for his business background and fiscal conservatism.

Positives and Negatives

He’s known for his strong conservative views, particularly on fiscal issues. However, his controversial statements and hard-right stances could hurt his chances.

• Ron Johnson’s approval has fluctuated, hitting 49% yesterday.
• Discussion volume is is relatively low at 80 yesterday.

In last night’s Michigan primaries, Donald Trump and Joe Biden each triumphed within their respective primary contests, but several key factors spell trouble for Biden’s re-election odds in the crucial swing state.

Trump garnered 138,000 more votes in the Republican contest than Biden's final tally in the Democratic primary. Worse for the 81-year-old President, pro-Palestinian efforts to lodge a protest vote under "Uncommitted" received more than 100,000 votes. While many in the mainstream media have scrambled to either downplay or outright deny a red light flashing moment for Biden, the uncommitted vote came just 54,000 away from Joe Biden’s margin of victory in Michigan in 2020.

Media Intelligence Group’s analysis of online discourse surrounding Trump and Biden in the Great Lakes State finds that Biden is indeed in serious trouble, with Trump poised to make perhaps one of the greatest comebacks in U.S. political history.

Dark Cloud Follows Biden Online

MIG’s analysis of online discourse directed at Biden by Michiganders finds a theme of doubt about Biden’s ability to serve as commander in chief and the Democratic nominee headed into November:

• Before uncommitted’s strong showing, MIG found, “users believe Biden could lose the primary due to dissatisfaction among certain voter groups.” And many users referring to him as "Genocide Joe.”
  
• Others highlight Biden’s age and acuity, a subject under increased scrutiny since the damning Hurr report dropped in early February. “There are discussions about Biden's ability to deliver the State of the Union address, with some questioning his mental fitness.” Some “suggest that Biden's lifespan could be a concern, questioning the wisdom of voting for him.”
  
• MIG found he still has ardent supporters, despite the chaos following Biden. “Some feel Biden and Kamala Harris will fight for them and plan to vote for them” in 2024.

Boiling Anger

Analysis of online discourse from Trump supporters in Michigan finds a theme of anger over both the past and the present that could motivate them to push Trump over the finish line in 2024.

• MIG’s analysis picks up discourse centering on the 2020 election results including, “allegations of election fraud,” and “users suggesting that the 2020 election was stolen from Trump.”

Others are enraged at the current state of America under Biden, demanding immediate action before November.

• Frequently, Republicans lean into removing Biden now, with online comments “demanding the impeachment of Biden.”
  
• Biden’s weakest point and highest policy priority among a plurality of Americans, immigration, generates anger tooMIG found, “frustration with Biden's immigration policy, and accusations of him allowing an influx of undocumented immigrants into the country.”
  
• Others focus on increasingly tragic human stories of Biden’s immigration policy. “There are multiple references to an incident involving the slaughter of Laken Riley, with users accusing Biden of complicity.”
  
• Despite Biden defenders in mainstream media portending the economy is in great shape, Michiganders remain unconvinced of Bidenomics success and, “express dissatisfaction with his economic policies.”

While anger is a serious theme found in discourse by Trump supporters in Michigan, hope drives support for Trump’s re-election as well.

• Pro-Trump Michigan discourse finds many viewing his return as a solution to global chaos, voicing that, "If Trump had won a second term, he would have taken stronger action against China.” And their desire for him, “to be elected in 2024 and end wars.”
  
• Democrats remain critical of the former President, with some suggesting that, “Trump is pro-Russia and anti-Ukraine.”
  

By the Numbers

With just nine months until election day, MIG’s analysis of head-to-head support online between Joe Biden and Donald Trump spells a tight final vote count in November.

• Today, Trump leads Biden 47% to 44% in Michigan, with RFK Jr. taking 9% of support.

Michigan Head-to-Head Support Analysis - February 28

• Over the last 14 days, Biden’s lead in support versus Trump has crumbled, falling from an average of 50% to Trump’s 43% between February 15 and 21,to Trump capturing an average of 46% support to Biden’s 44% between February 22 and 29.

Michigan Head-to-Head Support Analysis - last 14 days

• MIG’s analysisduring this period finds that Trump does not necessarily dominate Biden by garnering more positive indications of support. In fact, in individual candidate analysis, each held 45% approval between Febraury 15 and 21, when Biden’s support began to give way to Trump.
  
• What makes the difference is disparity in the volume of negativity directed at each candidate. Biden earned more negative than positive comments on Frebruary 17 and 18, and his support fell by7% against Trump.
  
• During this time frame, Biden’s ratio of positive comments to negative comments found the incumbent at -149, with Trump lower at -139. This implies a conclusion that Biden’s ultimate weakness in Michigan isn’t voters liking Trump more, but their anger towards Biden is stronger than dislike for Trump.

Looking Ahead

What is unfolding in Michigan spells potential disaster in a must-win state for Biden. Despite being thousands of miles from the border, MIG’s data shows that all states are increasingly focusing on immigration, coming to grips with the reality that every state is a border state in Joe Biden’s America.

It is nearly impossible for the Biden campaign to celebrate winning Michigan with so many cracks being revealed in the President’s 2020 winning strategy. Crucial minority groups essential to winning Democrat coalitions are fraying, evidenced by the substantial "Uncommitted" protest turnout. Democrats almost always beat Republicans in non-general election turnout, yet Trump’s turnout was more than Biden’s by 135,000.

Growing doubts on Biden’s electability, coupled with ever heightening scrutiny of Biden's policies and fitness for office contrasts sharply with the fervent support Trump enjoysAll this is fueled by a blend of anger and hope. As election day looms, the dynamics in Michigan come into focus, where dissatisfaction with the incumbent and a growing appetite for change sets the stage for what could be the most historic political comeback since Nixon’s return to the White House in 1969.

The potential invocation of the 25th Amendment to remove President Joe Biden has generated talk online and will likely become a contentious issue in the coming days. It's clear that sentiment varies widely among different political affiliations. However, there are also ideological fissures within both parties.

Democrats

Democrats seem largely dismissive of the idea and tend to have a negative sentiment towards this topic, as it portrays Biden in a vulnerable light. This group interprets the discussion as a distraction from more important issues and an attempt to shift focus from the GOP's own problems. They also see it as a form of political theater. Democrats express frustration with what they see as the GOP's hypocrisy, given the previous controversies and allegations surrounding former President Trump.

In public conversation, Democrats express confidence in Biden's capacity to perform his duties and decry the motives behind Republican calls for his removal. There’s also a theme of concern about the possibility of Vice President Kamala Harris taking over. This implies that not all Democrats are fully satisfied with the current administration.

Democrat approval for Biden is raised when Biden's efforts and accomplishments are highlighted such as the surprise appearance of Biden on "Late Night with Seth Meyers." Approval drops when accusations of illegality or incompetence are thrown at the current administration. Negative sentiment also arises when Democrats are accused of not fighting for American citizens and prioritizing other issues like illegal immigration. Further, some Democrats express concerns that these discussions may undermine their party's agenda and create unnecessary political instability.

Republicans

Republicans are divided. Some are ardent in their belief that Biden is unfit for office and explicitly support the invocation of the 25th Amendment. They cite his deficient mental capacity and handling of the border crisis as influencing factors. Others are more cautious, expressing concern about the potential repercussions, particularly the prospect of Harris assuming the presidency.

There are frequent references to the border crisis and the alleged failure of the Biden administration to address it, which raises sentiment among Republicans. However, sentiment falls with discussion of GOP efforts to invoke the 25th Amendment or attempts to cancel the State of the Union Address. These initiatives are seen by some Republicans as disrespectful or undemocratic.

Independents

Independents hold a range of views. Some support the invocation of the 25th Amendment, citing similar reasons to those of Republicans. Others, however, dismiss it as a political maneuver and criticize both parties for their perceived focus on political point-scoring rather than addressing the country's pressing issues.

It seems the discussion surrounding the potential invocation of the 25th Amendment to remove Biden is largely fueled by partisan politics. While some Republicans are pushing for it and some Independents support it, the majority of Democrats view it as a politically motivated distraction. There is no clear consensus on whether Democrats would support replacing Biden under different circumstance. Some Democrats express dissatisfaction with his performance, but there's no widespread call for his replacement within the party.

In a groundbreaking decision, Alabama's Supreme Court has stirred a national dialogue by recognizing frozen embryos as children, sparking heated discussions across party lines. This move, unprecedented and impactful, has triggered debates on reproductive rights, the sanctity of life, and the consequences of in vitro fertilization (IVF). It continues to inspire increased discussion.

Public Reaction

The ruling, which considers frozen embryos as children, has far-reaching implications. Supporters argue it aligns with pro-life values, emphasizing the sanctity of life from conception. However, critics see it as an encroachment on women's reproductive rights, questioning the priorities of pro-life Republicans. This development has reinvigorated discussions on abortion and abortion rights, raising essential questions about when life begins and the ethical dimensions of IVF.

Republicans find themselves in a complex position, torn between those who support the ruling for religious and moral reasons and those who worry about potential limitations on the rights of parents seeking IVF treatment. While the decision may be viewed as a win for the pro-life movement, internal divisions within the party may present challenges in presenting a unified front.

Among Democrats, the ruling is met with opposition and seen as a threat to reproductive rights. Democrats accuse Republicans of prioritizing unborn children over those already born, linking the decision to judicial appointments made during Donald Trump's presidency. Calls for vocal opposition and action from Democratic leaders echo through the party.

Independents, with their diverse political beliefs, showcase a spectrum of perspectives. Some align with Republicans, supporting the ruling on moral or religious grounds. Others join Democrats in criticizing its potential impact on reproductive rights. The varied responses from Independents underscore the complexity of the issue and the challenges of appealing to this diverse group.

Impact on the 2024 Elections

While it is challenging to predict the direct impact of the Alabama Supreme Court ruling on the 2024 elections, it has undeniably become a focal point of discussion. The ruling could mobilize voters on both sides of the debate, affecting conservatives who oppose abortion and liberals and moderates who champion reproductive rights. Candidates may need to clarify their positions on these issues to appeal to voters with strong feelings about abortion and IVF.

Potential Benefits and Drawbacks for Republicans

The conservative-leaning Alabama Supreme Court could potentially benefit Republicans by aligning with their values on abortion and religious freedom. The court's decisions may influence legal precedents and interpretations of state laws, supporting Republican policies. However, the ruling's potential implications on IVF and reproductive rights could alienate certain voter demographics, including women, younger voters, and suburban voters. This would pose challenges for the party in the upcoming elections.

GOP’s Unified Stance

Following the controversy, President Trump has asserted himself as a prominent figure in the discourse on reproductive rights. On Truth Social, he conveyed a strong stance, aligning himself with the overwhelming majority of Americans, including Republicans, conservatives, Christians, and pro-life advocates, in expressing robust support for the availability of in vitro fertilization (IVF) for couples aspiring to have children. Trump's voice is echoed by the Senate GOP's campaign arm, which actively encourages its candidates to join the conversation. In a recent directive, National Republican Senatorial Committee instructed candidates to vocally express their endorsement for IVF treatment and to condemn any effort to curtail its accessibility.

Conclusion

The Alabama Supreme Court ruling has ignited a national conversation on reproductive rights. Republicans, Democrats, and Independents express diverse perspectives. While the ruling aligns with conservative values, its potential consequences on IVF and reproductive rights may pose challenges for Republicans in gaining broad electoral support. As the debate unfolds, the political landscape leading up to the 2024 elections remains dynamic and subject to evolving public sentiment.

Americans are growing more negative about COVID vaccines, amid recent headlines highlighting the possible risks associated with them. Many people on the right have been skeptical and expressing doubt for years, but MIG data shows Democrats are growing more skeptical as well.

Overall Vaccine Discussions

More people online are discussing the potential risks of getting vaccines and booster shots. The possible presence of heavy metals and potential for severe medical problems is becoming a common theme.

Americans are talking about the possibility that vaccines may cause blood clots, increase the risk of heart, brain, and blood disorders, and even contribute to the emergence of more serious diseases.

This is especially concerning for the many Americans who suggest the vaccines and online discussion about them, might be part of larger censorship conspiracies or cover-ups. Some consider the vaccines, like the virus itself, as a form of biowarfare or claim they contain harmful substances.

Some argue that, until now, censorship prevented the public from becoming aware of risks and dangers associated with experimental drugs like the vaccine. They remain dubious of the safety and efficacy of the vaccine, suggesting there would be much more negativity across the political spectrum without such severe censorship.

Across many professional groups and political divisions, people are questioning the rushed pace of vaccine development and approval, citing a need for long-term safety studies. Even those who still advocate for vaccines question why they don't prevent the spread of COVID, only lessen the severity of the symptoms.

Democrats Grow Negative on Vaccines

Historically, Democrats tend to be the voices advocating for COVID vaccines. This is largely still the case—however, sentiment within this group is surprisingly low.

• MIG data shows COVID vaccine sentiment among Democrats is 34%, a 14-day low.
• Overall discussion volume regarding COVID vaccines has averaged 635 mentions per day.

Until very recently...

• Democrats have long insisted that COVID vaccines are crucial tool for “ending the pandemic.”
• They have been stressing the importance of getting vaccinated and following public health guidelines.
• They tend to be very critical towards those potentially spreading misinformation about the vaccines, including public figures and political opponents.
• Often, they express concern about vaccine skepticism and resistance.

Current conversations reveal...

• Some Democrats are expressing concern about the alleged censorship of COVID news.
• There are more mentions of the possible side effects of the vaccines, including slight increases in heart, brain, and blood disorders.
• However, some Democrats argue that the risks of contracting COVID far outweigh these side effects.
• Many still criticize outspoken figures like Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene for allegedly spreading conspiracy theories and confusing the public.
• Some are calling for investigations into allegations of adverse effects from vaccines and demanding transparency.

While Democrats are still the most vocal group in favor of vaccines, it’s possible to conclude that they are becoming more aware of the risks. The overall conversation online suggests that, despite censorship, facts and studies about the realities of COVID vaccine dangers are being revealed.

In the face of changing public health guidelines, warnings, and efficacy studies, it seems more Democrat voters may be growing dissatisfied with demonstrated negative vaccine outcomes.

ICE may begin the mass-release of illegal immigrants after the failed border bill, but many Americans are unaware, online trends show. In the wake of the ICE bombshell, online discussion increased only slightly, indicating border policy fallout may be delayed.

• While the border remains a top election issue, early February’s House battle over the widely criticized Border Bill saw peak discussion volume, reaching nearly 30,000 online mentions.
• Trends show widespread dissatisfaction with the Biden Administration’s policies and the worsening situation on the US southern border.
• However, by February 14, discussion was down by two thirds, barely crossing 10,000 mentions in the wake of the failed so-called Border Bill, which would limit illegal border crossings to 5,000 per day.
• The data suggests that Americans are unaware of the implications of continued border security issues as volume decreases, yet negative sentiment remains stable.
• Border sentiment has held within a few percentage points of 45% for the last 30 days and sits at 45% as of February 15.

Competing with wars in Ukraine and Gaza and the DOJ Special Counsel Report questioning President Biden’s fitness for office, border security has dropped to sixth place among trending topics. Yet the undiscussed bombshell—that ICE may be set for the widespread release of detained illegal immigrants—has yet to explode.

Top issues online:

1. Biden – special counsel report
2. Security issues – Ukraine and Israel
3. Ideologies – Wokeism
4. Economic issues – taxes and inflation
5. Palestine – Gaza and Hamas
6. Border security – illegal immigration

The discussion around ICE’s potential mass release is limited, according to MIG data. But there is a clear sentiment among those who are discussing it that illegal immigrants should be deported immediately upon encounter with law enforcement.

What People Are Saying About the Border

Discussion of the border falls predictably within partisan lines, even as democrats’ sentiment on the border has eroded. A clear theme is that huge numbers of illegal entries are becoming increasingly difficult to ignore, and more Americans now call for stricter border control and mass deportations.

• Mass Deportations: Many Americans are expressing frustration and anger towards immigration policies they perceive as lax, calling for mass deportations and closing the border.
• Sentiment tracking shows the Border is linked with a host of other critical issues: Americans are worried about crime, terrorism, and the economic burden associated with illegal immigrants.

• There are also increasing accusations of treason against individuals who support open border policies.
• Double standards: trends show dissatisfaction with preferential treatment for illegals, such as bypassing TSA screening at airports and benefits funded by American taxpayers.
• Discussion of ICE is limited, but existing trends show a critical stance toward the agency for releasing illegals into the US—which could happen at scale in the wake of the Biden Administration’s battle with the House.

Blame to Go Around

While discussion has simmered in the wake of the bill’s failure, trends show Americans’ anger over the border persists.

• Republican voters are accusing the Biden administration of lying and gaslighting the public in its claims the administration lacks the authority to close the border.
• The few Democrats who have reacted to the border crisis are blaming Republicans and, more specifically, Donald Trump.
• Some defending the Biden administration claim immigrants contribute to the economy and pay taxes.
• Liberal voters criticized Republican lawmakers for blocking the legislation, which would have permitted 5,000 illegal border crossings each day. But increasingly, democrats have turned on the Biden Administration’s handling of the issue.

Impeached DHS secretary Alejandro Mayorkas also received attention in the wake of his House impeachment inquiry.

• On the day of his impeachment, and the following day, discussion about Mayorkas increased from roughly 500 to 1,500 mentions.
• Approval for Mayorkas actually increased from 45% to 46% on the day of his impeachment.
• This indicates that, despite widespread dissatisfaction with the border, Americans are not fully on board with Republican political tactics.

However, along with negativity toward House Republicans, the public discourse around Mayorkas is under fire, with calls for his ouster.

• Many are arguing Mayorkas was derelict in his duty from day one, and that his impeachment is direct fallout from his handling of the border.
• Some are unsatisfied with Mayorkas as the target for inquiry, suggesting Mayorkas’ and DHS’ problems with the border extend to Biden and the White House.
• Even among some Republicans, there is belief that impeaching Mayorkas will not solve the underlying issue, as the Biden Administration will likely replace Maryorkas with someone equally unfit.
• There are also criticisms that the House Republicans have spent more time trying to impeach Mayorkas than they have spent actually securing the border.
• There is speculation that President Biden will scapegoat Mayorkas’ DHS to shift blame away from his administration.
• The Senate's ability to convict Mayorkas is unclear, with the real possibility a Senate trial would end in acquittal.

Overall, trends indicate Americans are unhappy with officials and lawmakers across the board when it comes to the southern border. Even as the border has lost ground to war and security issues in trending discourse, sentiment shows deep underlying negativity among Americans about the number of illegal immigrants entering the country.

Security issues have obscured the prospect of widespread ICE releases of illegals, the fallout of which remains to be seen.