The 2024 election is looking more like an uphill battle for Vice President Kamala Harris. Several factors, ranging from poor handling of key issues like disaster response and immigration, to lackluster media appearances, to a perceived fracture among Democrats, are compounding her challenges. MIG Reports analysis suggests a downward trajectory may damage Harris’s chances in the last month of campaigning.

Growing Negativity on Key Issues

Kamala Harris's support has been eroding across several critical issues, including Hurricane Helene response, immigration, the economy, and even abortion.

MIG Reports data shows the top discussion topics regarding Kamala Harris in the last three days reveal declining approval. Natural disasters, abortion, hospitals, Israel, national security, and the economy all have net negative support. The only issues with a net positive movement on October 8 are Palestine, presidential nomination, and housing.

Net Change in Support (Last Three Days)

• Natural Disasters: -10 points
• Abortion Rights: -5 points
• Hospitals: -4 points

These downward trends expose rising voter frustrations on critical issues. Americans are increasingly disillusioned with Harris's inability to handle issues they find important.

Hurricane Helene Debacle

Americans are frustrated and even enraged with the federal government’s response to Hurricane Helene, often blaming Harris directly. Online conversations show people believe federal aid was misallocated during recent disasters with massive spending for illegal immigrants and a pittance for hurricane victims.

Many feel the Biden-Harris administration focuses on international aid and support for illegal immigrants over disaster relief for citizens. This has been a particular sore spot for Republican and Independent voters who are increasingly skeptical of Harris’s competence to lead in crisis situations.

Immigration and Border Security

Harris’s role as "Border Czar" has done her no favors. Her policies on border security and unclear statements about future policies anger voters. Many routinely criticize Harris for being too lenient and facilitating a mass invasion in the last three years. The perception that her administration has failed to secure the border, while prioritizing foreign aid and migrant support, has created a significant credibility gap.

Biden Jumping Ship

Many voters are now inferring discord between Harris and Biden, further eroding her credibility even within the Democratic Party. Recent examples of Biden’s public remarks have fueled speculation that the two are not on the same page, which reinforces perceptions the Party is fractured at the top.

Disjointed Messaging Hurts Party Unity

• Voters point out Biden seeming to undermine Harris regarding hurricane preparedness in Florida, with Harris claiming Governor DeSantis refuses to engage with the administration and Biden stating they’re in personal contact.
• President Biden also recently overshadowed Harris by holding a press conference at the same time Harris was scheduled to go live on CNN.
• Many also say Biden is countering Harris’s messaging by reiterating her role in the administration, saying she’s “singing from the same song sheet,” including her in negative voter sentiment about the last three years.
• Voters are also discussing alleged animosity between Biden and Harris staffers in the White House, with allegations of physical altercation.

The confusion within the administration does not put voters at ease, causing speculations about disarray, Biden’s cognitive health, and hostility within the current administration. Many on the right joke about Biden recently wearing a Trump hat, saying he’s actively working against the Harris campaign. 

Democrats, meanwhile, express anxiety about Party fracture, worrying whether it hurts Harris’s chances. This disjointed messaging may signal growing problems for the Harris campaign and the Democratic Party overall.

There is a rising fear among Democrats that negative press and infighting could suppress voter enthusiasm and turnout. For a Democratic base that is already skeptical of Harris’s leadership abilities, this division is only exacerbating concerns.

Republican and Independent Sentiment

Republicans and Independents seem to be more united behind Donald Trump. Many take every opportunity to drive home their view that Harris is unfit for office. MIG Reports data shows Harris continues to trail Trump in national approval.

Voter Sentiment

• Support for Donald Trump: 53%
• Support for Kamala Harris: 45%

The sustained support gap is significant, particularly with most polling showing a tight race. All discussion data shows voters are concerned about the economy and immigration—two issues Harris is weak on. For Republicans, there is hope that Trump is growing stronger, though many still express concerns about election integrity.

Online reactions to the Joker 2 movie show viewers perceive a clear divergence from its predecessor, Joker. The discussions provide insights into the film's reception, the demographics engaged in the discourse, and overall cultural reflections. Even among mainstream industry outlets like Rotten Tomatoes, there is a shared distaste toward the movie and severe backlash toward its producers.

They made the joker get gay gang raped then killed him.

No spoiler warning because fuck Todd Phillips.

Don't go see it.

— Cassandra MacDonald (@CassandraRules) October 5, 2024

Backlash Against Joker 2

Expectations and Comparisons

The 2019 film Joker, directed by Todd Phillips, captivated audiences with its deep psychological exploration of the character, thrilling narrative arcs, and societal critiques. However, viewers feel Joker 2 lacks the same depth and innovative storytelling that characterized the first film. Many say it’s an attack on the young, disenfranchised white men who identified with the original movie.

• 65% of reactions express disappointment in the sequel.
• Viewers say it fails to capture the "raw emotional intensity" of the first.

Concept and Direction

Some express concern about the creative direction, suggesting the sequel represents a cash grab rather than a genuine artistic endeavor. Critics view the choice to produce a sequel as an indication that the filmmakers prioritize marketability over narrative integrity. Many also argue the intent of Joker 2 was to destroy any sympathy disenfranchised young men found in the prequel’s nihilistic portrayal of society.

• 40% of discussions are skeptical of the film's motives, with terms like "exploiting the legacy."

Character Development

Fans of the first film argue the character development in Joker 2 feels rushed or unearned. They say the sequel attempts to replicate the original's success without adequately addressing the nuances that made Arthur Fleck's journey compelling.

• Nearly 50% of critiques focus on underdeveloped characters, suggesting they fail to resonate on an emotional level.

Age Demographics

Younger audiences, particularly those aged 18-34, tend to express strong opinions against Joker 2, saying they want originality in cinema. Older demographics are more willing to accept traditional storytelling methods, leading to a more divided view of the sequel.

• About 60% of younger viewers (18-34) are dissatisfied compared to 30% of older viewers (35+).

Cultural Impact and Reflection

The film operates within a cultural framework that includes discussions about mental health, societal alienation, and the repercussions of violence. This context amplifies the discourse where fans critique the film's inability to address serious themes.

• 55% of comments make cultural observations, saying the narrative fails to provide commentary on contemporary societal challenges.

Mental Health Stigma

There is a growing concern around the depiction of mental illness in films. Many say Joker 2 mishandles this subject, potentially contributing to harmful stereotypes rather than fostering understanding.

• Roughly 45% express concern that the film lacks sensitivity towards mental health issues.

Memes and Online Discourse

There is a wealth of memes around Joker 2, playing on clichés established by the first film and blending humor with critique. These memes highlight viewer frustrations while maintaining a layer of irreverence that characterizes internet culture.

• 30% of discussions involve memes, emphasizing the gap between audience expectations and reality.

Patterns in Language

Emotion-Laden Language

Reviews use emotionally charged terms like "disappointed," "betrayal," and "uninspired," suggesting widespread dissatisfaction with the narratives. This language emphasizes the divergence in expectation versus reality.

• Emotional language appears in about 70% of complaints.

Disillusionment with Sequels

Many viewers discuss a broader weariness with film sequels and remakes. People want innovative storytelling, particularly younger demographics who feel fatigued by repetitive content in mainstream cinema.

• Approximately 50% of discussions express disillusionment with sequels in general.

Less than a month from the election, early voting discussions among Americans reveal strong emotional engagement and division. Through analysis of voter conversations, key patterns in language, motivations, and support for Trump and Harris emerge. Sentiments among those who have already voted or plan to vote early shed light on the reasons behind their choices and how they articulate their political motivations.

• Trump has stronger support on top issues except for abortion.
• His highest leads are in campaign rallies and foreign policy.

Voter Reactions

• Trump supporters emphasize economic concerns, patriotism, and frustration with Biden and Harris.
• Harris supporters focus on social justice, stability, and empathetic leadership.
• Language among Trump supporters is often combative and urgent, while Harris supporters talk about optimism and adherence to progressive values.
• Both groups express strong emotional investment, framing early voting as crucial to the outcome of the election.

Support for Donald Trump

Among early voters, most Trump supporters express dissatisfaction with Biden and Harris, particularly on the economy and foreign policy. There is a clear desire for a return to more stable and prosperous times they experienced under Trump’s presidency.

Voters use phrases like "Trump gets things done" and "America-first policies." They vocally call for a shift back to Trump’s leadership. Republican voters emphasize voting early as an act of urgency, motivated by a belief that America’s values and future are at stake.

Trump supporters highlight patriotism and preserving traditional American values as key reasons for casting ballots early. They emphasize the need to "take back our country" and view their vote as a defense against progressive threats posed by Harris and Walz.

There is also a strong sense of community on the right, with solidarity in phrases like "we are united" and "together we will win." This collective sentiment is underscored by shared distrust of the media and election integrity, with some mentioning concerns about voter fraud or manipulation. Many call for Republicans to turn out and make a Trump win “too big to rig.”

The language among Trump supporters is aggressive and emotionally charged. Words like "disgusting," "pathetic," and "traitors" are used in reference to Democrats, emphasizing voter frustration and investment in the election’s outcome. This rhetoric positions the election as a battle for the nation’s soul, with Trump as the protector of Americas core values.

Support for Kamala Harris

The Democratic base supporting Harris tends to focus on the future and progressive change. Early voters prioritize social justice, gun control, abortion, and DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion).

Early voters saying voting is a proactive step toward ensuring progress in the face of perceived stagnation or regression under Trump. Their language reflects a commitment to progressive ideals, with phrases like "we must move forward" and "progress for all."

Harris supporters want stability and steady leadership. They say after years of political upheaval, Harris can bring balance and restore faith in democratic institutions. They use phrases like "protect our democracy" and "steady leadership," illustrating a belief in Harris’s ability to handle the economy and social division.

Personal connection and empathy are key themes in Harris support narratives. Many view Harris as representing their values, often sharing personal stories about how her policies impact their lives and emotions.

The emotional tone among Democrats contrasts with the urgency of Trump supporters. Harris’s backers focus on moral responsibility and uniting within the Party, framing early voting as a duty to prevent Trump from threatening democracy.