MIG Reports performed analysis of social media commentary regarding Americans’ desire or acceptance of mass deportation. Data suggests a general negativity towards the current administration’s border security and related immigration issues. Meanwhile, former president Donald Trump maintains a steady lead over Joe Biden on all border issues.

Discussion Trends

Border Security

Border security continues to be one of the highest volume discussion topics online, suggesting high engagement with this issue. This demonstrates its importance to American voters.

• Currently, most Americans are extremely negative about mass migration and the presence of illegal immigrants in the country.
• There is significant talk of deportation, closing the border, and increasing crime associated with migrants.
• There are some concerns about the feasibility and practicality of mass deportation, but less disapproval of the idea of reducing illegal immigrants in general.

Several hot-button topics repeatedly come up in voter conversations online. Many believe mass migration is negatively impacting quality of life in America. Voters also dislike how government authorities are currently handling illegal immigration.

There are also recurring accusations of "open borders” which are allowed by the Biden administration. There’s also a strong emphasis on the association of increased crime with immigration, including cartel activities.

Immigration Issues

Discussions and sentiment on immigration issues reveal a variety of opinions about border control policies. There is significant discussion about constructing a border wall, with differing levels of support, skepticism, and criticism.

• A lot of discussion about immigration issues is more technical and includes talk about executive steps the Biden administration has taken.
• The discussions still touch on border security, which likely explains why border security discussion volume is higher.
• Most voters advocate for stricter immigration control, with many supporting former President Trump's border policies and calling for a border shutdown.
• There is some opposition to stronger measures or a wall due to affordability, practicality, and potential human rights issues.
• Some people note the need for more border patrol staff or other security measures in addition to a physical barrier.

Sentiment Trends

Feelings about the border are overwhelmingly negative. Some voters voice hostility towards politicians, government decisions, and migrants. Many blame illegal immigrants for increased crime, economic stress, or demographic changes. However, a few comments question the practicality of mass deportations—but without wholly opposing it.

Analysis of online discourse clearly shows the topic of border security as a bigger conversation than general immigration issues. Despite higher volume, however, border security also gains lower sentiment, suggesting voters are extremely negative about the U.S. border. It is also clear voters prefer Donald Trump to Joe Biden on both border security and immigration issues.