As the spotlight continues to shine on illegal immigration, many voters understand the problems of economic migrants impacting the economy, cartels bringing drugs into the country, and increased crime in sanctuary cities. But Americans are now starting to express fears of a larger, more global threats beyond Central and South American migrants and the cartels.

China’s Power is Growing

A lot of Americans are talking about China’s significant and increasing global power. Some argue that governments in Iran, Russia, Israel, America, NATO, and the European Union can all be bought by China – and may have already been bought. The perceived control of China over world affairs is a major concern.

Voters continually express apprehension about China's alignment with Russia, Iran, and North Korea. The potential for these alliances to result in terrorist activities or geopolitical instability is a recurring theme in the discussions. Americans sound increasingly alarmed at China’s potential threat to U.S. national security through the economy and illegal immigration.

As it relates to the border, more people are beginning to speculate that Chinese nationals are among the many illegal immigrants a truant U.S. government is allowing to stream into the country.

There are increasing fears about potential threats these illegal crossings pose from the Chinese government, including espionage, sleeper military cells, and other forms of interference.

Americans are concerned about the potential of military-age single men coming from China across the southern border for unknown but threatening purposes. There are speculations that an “invasion” is taking place not only by Central and South American migrants, but Chinese nationals and other antagonistic countries.

More and more Americans insist that the U.S. should prioritize its own security interests before international interests. They express frustration with what they see as inaction and incompetence by our country’s government.

U.S. Business and Politics in the Pocket of China

There is a significant and vocal segment of Americans who express suspicions that American politicians and corporations are being influenced by China.

Many people mention politicians like Gavin Newsom and Nikki Haley, and CEOs like Mark Cuban as supporters of open immigration policies and submission to China’s interests. Some accuse Haley of encouraging illegal immigration by promoting policies that benefit foreign companies, such as bringing the Chinese corporation Bluestar Silicones to South Carolina.

More and more, American voters express fears that the U.S. is being put economically, politically, and now possibly militarily at the mercy of China.

Some other concerns that often come up related to China’s influence in the U.S. include:

• Fears that China is buying vast amounts land across the country.
• Discussion of China’s use of technology and artificial intelligence for cyber warfare.
• Apprehension about China’s control over TikTok and its social surveillance.
• Talk about China’s potential to invade Tiwan as the U.S. sits idly by.

Sentiment toward China tends to be slightly higher among Democrats. Although, Republican sentiment has fluctuated slightly more in the last 15 days.

• The 15-day average sentiment toward China is 47% among Democrats and 46% among Republicans.

Overarching Border Fears Move Sentiment Prior to the Election

The conversation about China’s potential threat at the southern border is roiling under the surface of a larger illegal immigration conversation. A January Harvard CAPS / Harris poll showed that immigration surpassed inflation as the most important issue to American voters. MIG data confirms this poll with 30-day trending topic analysis.

• Border security generated more online discussion in the last 30 days than economic issues.
• Both border security and the economy are in the top five overall discussion topics.
• Average sentiment for border security is 45% compared to 46% for the economy.

Many voters are expressing outrage over the perceived misuse of their tax dollars, particularly when used to provide for illegal immigrants. Americans argue that their hard-earned money is being used to fund services and benefits for illegals, which they find unjust. This sentiment is particularly strong with recent news of New York City Mayor Adams' plan to provide $10,000 Debit Cards to undocumented immigrants.

More people are saying that increased crime and economic drain are top problems caused by unchecked illegal crossings. Instances of crime involving illegal immigrants are often highlighted when people advocate for stricter immigration control.

Discussion shows increasing resistance to the idea of amnesty for illegal immigrants, with some insisting that illegal entry should be penalized rather than condoned. The need to finish building a wall along the southern border is also commonly suggested.

Many voters criticize Biden for his ineffective handling of the border crisis and an unwillingness to act in the interest of Americans. Words like "invasion” and “infiltration” are being used more frequently. Voters repeatedly lament the growing strain on public resources, such as schools and social services. This coincides with existing concerns about the economy, rising costs, and unchecked government spending.

A final concern that many, especially Republicans and conservatives, vocalize is the potential political implications of continued open border. Americans worry about the influence of illegal immigrants on the electoral process, accusing Democrats of using the influx of potential new voters to secure votes.

Border sentiment is consistently lower among Republicans than among Democrats. However, negative discussion about the subject is widespread among all voter groups.