April’s media coverage paints a grim picture of the American economy. Axios reports an 11% drop in the University of Michigan’s consumer sentiment index—the fourth straight month of decline. CNN echoes, citing inflation expectations at a 40-year high and widespread economic despair cutting across demographics. According to the establishment narrative, President Trump’s tariff policy is responsible for crushed confidence, rattled markets, and spooked consumers.

But MIG Reports data shows real-time voter conversations are telling a more layered story. Online discourse shows frustration but also resolve, adaptation, and even pockets of optimism. In contrast to the media’s portrayal of national helplessness, voters are split in their fundamental view of what drives economic security.

Media Narrative: A Disastrous “Confidence Collapse”

Mainstream outlets have tethered April’s consumer confidence plunge directly to Trump’s tariff policies. Axios suggests these moves are pushing the U.S. toward “historic inflation,” while CNN frames the response as universal panic.

The headlines are creating a unified narrative that consumers are worried, inflation is spiraling, and Trump’s economic unpredictability is to blame. There’s no recognition of voter nuance, policy debate, or the deeper roots of economic anxiety. The public is cast not as participants, but as casualties of a reckless experiment.

Online Discourse is Polarized but Purposeful

MIG Reports analysis shows recent online comments are far more complex in their reactions:

• 35% express hope: They view tariffs as leverage to force fairer global trade terms and restore U.S. manufacturing.
• 30% maintain a neutral stance: They focus on real-time data without clear emotional framing.
• 35% are in despair: They see Trump's economy as driven by malpractice, raising costs and eroding middle-class security.

This is not uniform gloom. It’s a contested terrain, where nationalism, economic survival, and distrust of elite narratives intersect. MIG Reports analysis prior to the election showed negativity, particularly among younger voters. According to online sentiment, Americans are worried but not significantly more than they have been in recent months.

Strategic Tariffs vs. Regressive Tax

Supporters frame Trump’s 90-day tariff pause (excluding China) as a calibrated move. They cite market rebound as proof of strategy, not chaos. Meanwhile, Democrats accuse Trump of insider trading.

Critics say Trump's tariff policies function as a backdoor sales tax. Price hikes on essentials—like auto parts and eggs—fall hardest on families. Many accuse the administration of flip-flopping for market timing, citing Trump’s “buy now” messages as signals of insider manipulation.

An insider trading scandal is brewing.

Trump's 9:30am tweet makes it clear he was eager for his people to make money off the private info only he knew. So who knew ahead of time and how much money did they make? pic.twitter.com/AJbtEq372n

— Chris Murphy 🟧 (@ChrisMurphyCT) April 10, 2025

Still, even among critics, there’s recognition that Trump's tactics might work.

Congressional Failure and Institutional Distrust

At the same time, voters are livid with Congress for abdicating its constitutional role in trade policy. Across ideological lines, many now accuse legislators of enabling executive overreach while enriching themselves through insider trading.

While this has been a complaint on the right for many years, in the wake of Trump’s controversial policies, people on the left are beginning to adopt the cry. This causes some conservatives to accuse Democrats of shaping their policy positions on opposition to Trump, rather than pragmatism, logic, or values.

Either way, there's growing momentum behind dramatic institutional reform on:

• Term limits
• Bans on congressional insider trading
• Restoration of tariff authority to Congress

Outside of the tariff conversation, this isn’t anti-Trump sentiment but anti-elite and corruption. In many instances, economic discussions merge with institutional criticism.

Media vs. Voters: Who's Really Out of Touch?

Media outlets are painting a picture of the sky falling. Voters, however, are as divided as ever. While they acknowledge inflation and market swings, they resist the narrative of helplessness. Many see the media as stoking panic for political ends.

The Axios-CNN consensus treats voters as consumers of fear. But the digital public sphere shows Americans seeking agency, searching for reasonable analysis, and demanding accountability—not only from Trump, but from the entire governing class.

In swing-state discussions, Trump still garners strong support, even among those nervous about the economy. Economic pain hasn’t translated into political abandonment. Instead, it has amplified demands for structural correction and realignment.

Despite liberal claims that Trump supporters are beginning to regret their votes, MIG Reports data shows the President’s political standing has only crystallized. Public discourse about his leadership, both supportive and critical, shows an electorate no longer swayed by conventional markers of competence or decorum.

Americans are increasingly aligning around symbolism, cultural signaling, and ideological authenticity. While critics grow more alarmist, supporters have grown more loyal. Those who embrace Trump now do so more fervently as the administration enacts its agenda.

Conservatives Double Down

Getting What They Voted For

Those who may once have supported Trump pragmatically are growing to support him out of genuine enthusiasm. Before the 2024 election, support was strong but conditional—based on jobs, trade performance, and law-and-order promises. Today, that support has solidified with fast and decisive actions on all required fronts by Trump 2.0.

This sentiment persists even in the face of scandals like "SignalGate," which the media and Democrats cling to as an indictment of Trump’s Cabinet. However, instead of provoking alarm, many voters interpret the coverage as overblown distractions. Some even say it's strategic provocation by a desperate Democratic party which is losing public favor.

Cultural Disruption as Political Strength

Trump supporters increasingly value chaos as a cleansing force. SignalGate and similar controversies no longer carry reputational cost. Instead, they validate Trump’s outsider status and fuel distrust in legacy institutions.

The White House recently tweeted using a viral Studio Ghibli-style AI image of a drug dealer’s arrest, causing histrionics among liberals. Many on the right, however, say this further illustrates the shift in political aesthetics. Supporters appreciate the tongue-in-cheek style, viewing it as cultural savvy and understanding new media.

I guarantee you the people crying over this are the same people who wished for my death when I didn't get the covid shot. https://t.co/zmruw6JKlY

— Frasier Payne (@MeinGottNiles) March 27, 2025

The symbolic style resonates with meme culture and a voter base which feels liberated from the self-serious rhetoric of the political left over the last decade. It reinforces an understanding that politics has fully collided with culture via the internet.

AHHH I VOTED FOR TRUMP IN EVERY ELECTION BUT I REGRET IT NOW BECAUSE THE WHITE HOUSE POSTED A GHIBLI MEME OF A FAT FENTANYL DEALER GETTING ARRESTED AHHH IM RETARDED pic.twitter.com/68Pqf5AgzB

— 𝐍𝐨𝐫𝐦 𝐂𝐫𝐮𝐢𝐬𝐞 𝕏 (@normposter) March 28, 2025

Tariffs as Sacrifice, Not Cost

Trump’s return to trade warfare also does not rattle his base. A 25% tariff on imported automobiles draws criticism across the aisle for its inflationary impact, but supporters say it equates to economic patriotism.

Critics note the price hikes on consumer goods, especially in agriculture and automotive sectors. Yet few among his core constituency are defecting. They see temporary pain as evidence of long-term strength—a stark departure from pre-2024, when economic metrics still held sway in voter behavior.

Liberal Vitriol Intensifies

From Critique to Alarmism

Trump’s critics have abandoned incremental critique. The rhetoric is existential. Commenters label him a fascist, a traitor, a Putin asset. Concerns over tariffs or cabinet qualifications have been supplanted by claims of democratic collapse.

Publicly, Democratic narratives insist that Trump voters are beginning to regret their votes. However, discussion among those same voters appears only to confirm their growing support.

Bulwark reporter “I'm hearing a lot of Trump voters saying "I didn't really vote for this."

Anyone hearing about Trump voter regret? Personally Im thrilled!

pic.twitter.com/ge5Vcag2WI

— Spitfire (@DogRightGirl) March 17, 2025

SignalGate is a particular point of focus for Democrats who hope to stir backlash against the administration. Critics point say unsecured military group chats are proof of systemic collapse and national endangerment. They call for resignations and accountability, pushing Trump voters to admit their mistake.

When Democrats tell you that MAGA has voter regret, they are lying. In fact Dem registration fell recently. People think we are headed in the right direction. pic.twitter.com/DcWz31gCHg

— 🦉⭐️ Melissa Dawn ⭐️🦉 (@GenXNewsOnX) March 19, 2025

Institutional Collapse Narrative

Democrats frame Trump’s leadership as autocratic. Commentary increasingly connects policy decisions to structural erosion—overuse of executive orders, loyal cabinet appointees over qualified ones, and overt defiance of institutional norms.

This framing extends to symbolic acts as well. Democrats condemn the Studio Ghibli-style tweet as trivializing systemic issues like drug trafficking and incarceration. Rather than seeing it as creative messaging, critics say it's a propagandistic ploy to bypass substantive debate.

Legacy media continues to collapse as Americans reaffirm their distrust. Institutions like CNN, MSNBC, and The Washington Post have been deteriorating for years, and recent events are deepening fault lines in the industry. Recent events like Lester Holt leaving NBC, Joy Reid being fired from MSNBC, new directives for the Washington Post fuel discussions about the future of traditional news.

Around 60% of voter discussions express frustration with media bias and selective reporting. Most people view legacy outlets as tools of the Democratic Party rather than independent institutions. There is a sense of relief and even schadenfreude as media outlets struggle to attract an audience while losing influence.

Distrust in Media Continues to Freefall

Public skepticism toward mainstream outlets has hardened.

• Around 60% of discussions express outright distrust of legacy media, citing bias and manipulated narratives.
• Another 30% cite frustration with sensationalist coverage and corporate control, with mentions of Jeff Bezos and the Washington Post.

Conservatives and independent voters see a coordinated media effort to protect the Democratic establishment while attacking Trump and his allies. Jeff Bezos’s recent mandate to the Washington Post to cover “personal liberties and free markets,” draws backlash from the left. However, many on the right remain skeptical of Bezos, questioning his motives.

The belief that legacy media operates as a political arm of the Democratic Party is now mainstream among center-right voters, with 65% of right leaning discussions categorizing these outlets as actively partisan rather than merely biased. The press once positioned itself as the watchdog of power. Today, much of the electorate sees it as protecting power.

Trump’s recent action to take over decisions making on presidential pool access further complicates these conversations. This decision gets praise from supporters as a necessary move to combat biased and hostile outlets. But critics say a president choosing his own press coverage is an overreach of power. Some worry future Democratic administrations will exploit this strategy to ban outlets like Fox from the press pool.

Financial and Audience Decline

Legacy news outlets facing financial struggles further reinforce perceptions of a dying industry. The Washington Post reported a $77 million loss last year, which many say prompted Bezos to overhaul its opinion section. While the left sees this as a betrayal of the paper’s progressive identity, the right views it as a corporate strategy to cling to relevance as trust in legacy outlets evaporates.

MSNBC and NBC recently fired or lost major hosts Joy Reid and Lester Holt, causing speculation about broader instability in newsrooms struggling with credibility. Some say these layoffs are a response to declining ratings and public distrust. Others see them as a sign that legacy media is shedding its more overtly partisan actors to regain trust.

Across the board, subscriptions and viewership are declining, particularly among younger demographics who now turn to independent outlets, YouTube streamers, and social media figures for news. While legacy media still holds institutional power, its grip on public discourse is fast declining.

The Rise of Digital Journalism

Many Americans are increasingly ignoring traditional media outlets and getting news from independent sources. Social media platforms, Substack, and streaming video channels are gaining traction as trust and viewership for mainstream outlets plummet. Major networks’ failure to provide balanced reporting on key political events—from Biden’s cognitive decline, the Epstein files, to financial corruption—drives audiences away.

This shift isn’t just about bias—it’s about accessibility. The media landscape is fragmenting into a decentralized network of information sources, where corporate narratives can no longer remain unchallenged. While legacy outlets struggle to adapt, independent journalists and commentators are thriving, particularly those on Rumble, X, and digital platforms that allow open political debate.

Can Legacy Media Rebuild Trust?

The trajectory for traditional media looks bleak. The current landscape is defined by two competing forces—a crumbling media establishment attempting to regain trust and a rising independent sphere that thrives on institutional distrust.

This doomed future seems all but sealed with the Trump administration publicly embracing independent and new media journalists. Traditional outlets like CNN, MSNBC, and the Washington Post now have a wider set of competition. Many Americans are happy to watch what they view as a corrupt media monolith crumbling.

The long-awaited release of the Epstein files was billed as a moment of radical transparency, a chance for the public to finally peer behind the curtain of elite corruption. Instead, what arrived was perceived as a theatrical unveiling of nothing, only deepening skepticism. The files, heavily redacted and offering no new bombshells, were met with collective disbelief and frustration.

The reaction to this event exposes a fractured public discourse, one where trust in legal institutions has eroded almost entirely. Social media influencers wield as much narrative power as mainstream journalists and questioning official stories is framed as conspiratorial. If the goal was to silence Epstein speculation, it has backfired.

Some are calling for Attorney General Pam Bondi to resign after the Epstein files debacle. pic.twitter.com/2CnbqPN2a8

— TaraBull (@TaraBull808) March 2, 2025

Skepticism as Default

Releasing “Phase 1” of the Epstein files, which had essentially already been public, further cements a widespread belief that powerful institutions protect their own. Across social media and independent commentary, the dominant narratives are distrust, obfuscation, and the belief that the truth remains buried.

• Over 60% of discussions suggest the way these files were handled was not incompetence but intentional misdirection. People are increasingly cynical, no longer asking whether they are being misled, but how thoroughly the deception is being orchestrated.
• 75% of discourse frames the timing and execution of the release as a strategic distraction rather than an act of transparency. Questions linger about what the government seeks to divert attention from—broader elite corruption, political maneuvering, or another crisis quietly unfolding behind the scenes.

MIG Reports data shows a substantial level of engagement is described as “conspiratorial” by establishment-leaning voices, yet this label no longer carries the same dismissive weight.

The gatekeeping occurring with the Epstein Files drop is a horrible look. 😬

— Diligent Denizen 🇺🇸 (@DiligentDenizen) February 27, 2025

The Rise of Social Media Gatekeepers

Where mainstream journalism once dictated public discourse, the terrain has shifted. Social media influencers—once seen as alternative voices—are becoming primary gatekeepers of narrative power. Their access to leaks, exclusive commentary, and ability to mobilize audiences leaves traditional media scrambling to maintain authority.

• Personal Brand vs. Investigative Integrity: Around 55% of reactions critique influencers for treating the Epstein files as engagement bait rather than serious investigative material. There is a fine line between exposing corruption and commodifying it, and many view influencers as straddling that line.
• Media Authority Eroding: A key takeaway is that legacy media has lost control of the Epstein narrative, with 65% of discussions suggesting traditional outlets downplay or ignore the case, while independent voices keep it alive.

Americans sense this emergent, decentralized ecosystem of information control, one where trust is fragmented, and where influencers—many without journalistic backgrounds—hold as much narrative influence as major news organizations. This is not necessarily perceived as an improvement. Replacing one set of compromised storytellers with another does not bring truth, only a new form of curated reality.

The Theater of Justice

Attorney General Pam Bondi and FBI Director Kash Patel have become central figures in the public’s frustration with how this case is unfolding. Their involvement causes suspicion and accusations of political opportunism.

• Bondi’s Gambit: Bondi’s demand for additional documents was initially framed as a move toward transparency, but 70% of discourse views it as a calculated maneuver to maintain control over the narrative.
• Patel Walks a Tightrope: FBI Director Kash Patel faces similar accusations of political theater. 60% of reactions suggest he intends to project an illusion of justice while ensuring truly damaging information never reaches the public.
• The Broader Trend: Roughly 60% of commentary points to a larger pattern of law enforcement being politicized rather than serving justice. The perception is that figures like Bondi and Patel are managing damage control, not uncovering truth.

Did people think once Trump got in that I and anyone else who isn't a paid shill were going to just never be critical of his administration?

If you find yourself making excuses for Pam Bondi, or quite frankly Kash Patel at this point, your criticism of the previous admin is moot

— TheQuartering (@TheQuartering) March 2, 2025

The Fallout and What Comes Next

The Epstein file release has not provided resolution, but many speculate about what’s coming.

“Revelations” Without Real Consequences

Additional document releases will likely occur in phases, not to reveal truth, but to manage public reaction in increments. Expect continued redactions, calculated leaks, and the controlled release of just enough information to keep people engaged without toppling the system.

Social Media as the Primary Battlefield

Legacy media will continue to cede narrative control to influencers, whether willingly or by force. The battle over what is “real” information will play out in a fragmented ecosystem where independent voices wield unprecedented influence.

Institutional Distrust Will Deepen

As more redactions and half-truths emerge, public confidence in law enforcement, the DOJ, and intelligence agencies will further erode. We are approaching a point where even genuine institutional actions will be dismissed outright, creating a cycle where nothing is trusted, and everything is suspect.

Polarization Will Intensify

The Epstein saga will continue to serve as a litmus test for broader societal divides, reinforcing echo chambers where people interpret the case through rigid ideological lenses. Instead of shared outrage leading to unity, it will likely deepen partisan entrenchment.

Controlled Opposition

Public calls for full disclosure will continue, but any meaningful truth will be drip-fed in ways that ultimately protect institutional power while maintaining the illusion of responsiveness.

Ultimately, the Epstein file release serves as yet another reminder of the chasm between the governed and the governing. The public was promised revelations, but instead they received a staged information war. Many believe the truth will not be unveiled in a courtroom or a DOJ press conference—it will be pieced together in fragments, buried beneath layers of obfuscation, and left for those willing to dig through the wreckage.

Democrats are facing a rapidly evolving political landscape and their discussions reveal a changing rhetoric for the man they’ve spend nearly a decade comparing to Hitler. Rhetoric from figures like Senator John Fetterman, NYC Mayor Eric Adams, and media personalities like Joe Scarborough and Cenk Uygur is quickly moderating.

Although no single sentiment dominates, the emergence of themes such as bipartisanship, skepticism, and authenticity show a party navigating uncharted waters.

A Growing, Reluctant Acceptance

• 27.5% of Democrats express support for figures like Fetterman and Adams, who have demonstrated a willingness to engage Trump in unexpected ways.

Newfound support or willingness to partner across the aisle comes from those fatigued by partisan gridlock. They want pragmatic leadership that prioritizes governance over ideology. For some, figures embracing dialogue with Trump and other MAGA figures is a necessary evolution in an increasingly fractured political climate.

However, after the heated rhetoric from Democrats in recent years, a sudden willingness to hear Republican out is tinged with unease. Democrats wrestle with the implications of aligning, even partially, with a figure long vilified in media and by Democratic politicans.

Well, well, looks who's also suddenly kissing up to Trump: "I'm not against the former president," said Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell, who called Trump a "fascist" during the election, and before that, an "agent of Russia."

— Paul Sperry (@paulsperry_) November 19, 2024

Cynicism and Opportunism

• 37.5% of Democratic discourse is skeptical as people are wary of leaders whose apparent respect for Trump feels more strategic than sincere.

The term "political chameleon" surfaces frequently, capturing fears that figures like The Young Turks Cent Uygur and Joe Scarborough are changing their rhetoric to capitalize on shifting public sentiment. This distrust is not confined to individuals but applied to the media and the Democratic party's core values. Some worry principles are diluted in the pursuit of short-term gains.

BREAKING: Cenk Uygur says he’s glad Trump “defeated the establishment” and that MAGA is not his “mortal enemy.” pic.twitter.com/NgMP3YMD8y

— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) November 29, 2024

Openness to Pragmatism

• 25% of Democrats want a pragmatic approach, suggesting a growing acknowledgment that political efficacy often requires compromise.

Many commenters view Fetterman’s willingness to pardon Trump or Adams’s calls for bipartisanship as practical moves that transcend ideological purity. This perspective is a shift from rigid partisanship. However, pragmatism is not universally celebrated. For some, it represents a slippery slope toward complicity.

Authenticity as a Litmus Test

• 20% of Democrats view authenticity as a critical metric for leadership.

Fetterman’s personal recovery and candid demeanor and Adams’s unapologetic stances resonate with Democrats tired of performative politics. They want leaders who can bridge personal struggles and public service. However, authenticity is scrutinized through a partisan lens as all genuine actions are sometimes viewed with suspicion.

NEW: Joy Behar dies inside as John Fetterman explains that Trump’s NY trial was politically motivated.

“Those kinds of charges would have never been brought unless one side realized that they could weaponize that.”

Unbeknownst to Fetterman, he called out Behar to her face,… pic.twitter.com/68Uf82LuM3

— The Vigilant Fox 🦊 (@VigilantFox) December 5, 2024

Fractures Within the Party: A Struggle for Identity

• 18% of Democrats explicitly note divisions within their ranks, citing a tug-of-war between progressives and moderates.

Progressive voices often frame a willingness to work with Trump as a betrayal of Democratic ideals, while moderates see it as a necessary evolution. This internal conflict causes an identity crisis as the party seeks to balance politics with changing public sentiment in the wake of a massive red wave.

HOLY SH*T!

NYC Mayor Eric Adams just dared the left to "cancel" him over working with Border Czar Tom Homan and Trump.

"Cancel me because I'm going to protect the people of this city."

He says illegals are "committing crimes, robberies, sh*oting at police, r*ping innocent… pic.twitter.com/ByIw0FZuut

— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) December 3, 2024

Calls for Unity

• 7.5% of Democrats call for unity.

Some Democrats view bipartisanship as a moral imperative, emphasizing the need to prioritize national interests over party allegiance. These voices, while limited, recognize that cooperation—however fraught—may be the only path forward in a divided political landscape.

A Seismic Shift in Democratic Discourse

While a softer approach to Trump is not universal, the emergence of these sentiments in some Democratic circles signifies a seismic realignment in political thought. The willingness to entertain Trump’s legitimacy—whether as a strategic concession or a genuine shift—is a departure from the universal and vehement anti-Trump sentiment in the past decade. Skepticism and internal conflict reveal a party grappling with its identity, torn between ideological steadfastness and the pragmatism required to navigate an uncertain future.

Bluesky, a social media platform positioned as an alternative to X (formerly Twitter), is generating conversation and mockery with many Americans still on X.

Liberals tout Bluesky as a less divisive, less objectionable escape from Elon Musk’s platform, which has recently seen a leftist exodus. But many online, like Joe Rogan, mock the platform, saying it’s a leftist echo chamber.

🚨Joe Rogan on Bluesky and Rumble:

"They keep trying to say people are going to Bluesky. You know if you go to Bluesky and say there are two genders you get banned instantly? Blue sky is just the newest echo chamber of the old Twitter. It's all these Stephen King dorks that go… pic.twitter.com/mv8Rbar7xJ

— Autism Capital 🧩 (@AutismCapital) November 20, 2024

Here’s what Americans are saying:

• Liberals embrace Bluesky as a sanctuary from what they see as the chaos and lack of moderation on X under Elon Musk.
• Conservatives critique Bluesky for fostering echo chambers and stifling debate, likening it to the heavily censored Twitter, prior to Musk buying it.
• Criticisms center on perceived ideological policing and fears Bluesky will become another fragmented niche in the polarized media landscape.

These sentiments play into discussions about the death of legacy media for news and political discourse, liberal rejections of Musk and X, and questions about moderation versus free speech.

Liberals Rage Quit X

Many say Bluesky’s growing user base is comprised of over-serious liberals or trolls from the right wing. Liberals heading to Bluesky cite dissatisfaction with X’s transformation under Elon Musk.

Liberal Concerns with X

• Liberals say X has abandoned polite, organic discussion in favor of overemphasizing conservative voices and allowing “misinformation” and “divisive rhetoric.”
• Many are frustrated with Musk’s chaotic management style, which they say prioritizes “free speech absolutism” over safety and inclusivity.
• There is also exhaustion over algorithm-driven content on X, with users hoping Bluesky will offer more autonomy and less corporate or political influence.
• They view Bluesky’s structured moderation as more like Twitter before Musk, saying it was less problematic.
• Bluesky looks to appeal to those disillusioned with to state of discourse on X like LeBron James and Mark Cuban.

In case you’re wondering how bad things are at Bluesky, Mark Cuban is the center-right voice of reason. https://t.co/uSxy2uoiK1

— BostonWriter (@bostonwriter) November 21, 2024

Criticisms of Bluesky

Meanwhile on X, there is mostly criticism and mockery directed at Bluesky.

A New Echo Chamber

• People say Bluesky fosters ideological silos, allowing the left to remain ignorant of views they disagree with, and which caused so many to be shocked by the election outcome.
• Those on X also say Bluesky is too tightly moderated, viewing Twitter-of-old as a serious threat to free speech online.
• There are also accusations that Bluesky is drawing much more objectionable content than X, like CSAM and MAPs advocacy.

“You have violated Bluesky’s terms of service” pic.twitter.com/d3fEGdfc7Q

— Delicious Tacos (@Delicious_Tacos) November 21, 2024

A Fountain of Memes

• Many on the right or avid X users take the opportunity to mock and make memes about Bluesky users, saying they’re thin-skinned and intolerant.
• People joke about Bluesky’s attempt to enforce moderation to prevent the spread of “misinformation” and “hate speech.”
• Some also suggest liberals who object to Elon Musk are jealous of X’s success and the threat it poses to legacy media, refusing to participate due to sour grapes.
• People question Bluesky’s long-term viability, saying X has a significant market share and citing examples like Mark Zuckerberg’s “Threads,” which had lackluster impact.
• Others simply join Bluesky themselves to troll and bait what they view as ideologues who take themselves too seriously.
• There are also some on X reporting that they created a Bluesky account and were almost immediately perma-banned for things like saying men are men and women are women.

lol you guys are starting to make waves over there at Bluesky. pic.twitter.com/I8JiFnzClv

— Libs of Bluesky (@Libsofbluesky) November 20, 2024

The January (J6) Capitol riot remains a very polarizing event in modern American history, and its fallout continues to color social media discussions. The events of the riot, legal consequences for participants, and proposed or granted pardons generate fractured discussion. This reveals disagreements about justice, accountability, and the role of political leadership.

WOW: Vivek understands the terrible truth about J6: it was clear entrapment.

This is a STUNNING indictment of the fraudulent DOJ witch hunt against J6 protesters.@VivekGRamaswamy, we must make it clear to President Trump:
pardons FOR ALL J6ers is a CONSTITUTIONAL IMPERATIVE. pic.twitter.com/i6u362TRaY

— John Strand (@JohnStrandUSA) November 10, 2024

Competing Narratives

Roughly 45% of discussion supports J6 participants, often framing them as victims of corruption or political persecution. They believe many who were prosecuted are political prisoners, unfairly punished compared to protestors from other movements like Black Lives Matter.

Conversely, 30% condemn J6 as a direct threat to democracy, emphasizing the seriousness of the assault on law enforcement and the Capitol.

Only 25% attempt to wage nuanced debates, acknowledging failures on both sides while questioning the fairness of legal and political responses.

Discussion is not just about the events of January 6 but reaches to divisions about the state of American democracy. Supporters of J6 participants often reference beliefs about election fraud as justification, while opponents focus on the moral implications of the riot.

Justice and Accountability

Discussions about justice and accountability are typically among those who oppose Trump and view J6 as a severe attack.

Approximately 70% of these critics advocate for strict consequences, viewing leniency as a betrayal of democratic values. Many highlight the brutality of the riot, claiming violence against law enforcement officers and damage to the Capitol.

Around 15% of critics argue for leniency, claiming J6 participants were exercising their constitutional rights to protest perceived election fraud. This group often draws comparisons to Black Lives Matter protests, with critics alleging hypocrisy and double standards in law enforcement and judicial processes.

The debate reveals frustrations with institutional hypocrisy as many question whether the legal system upholds justice impartially or prosecutions are politicized.

Word is going around that Trumps team won’t pardon the J6ers because of this poll that says the majority of people oppose it

Don’t know about y’all but we were never asked and the polls are always opposite of reality

We say PARDON ALL THE J6 PROTESTORS ON DAY 1 pic.twitter.com/sE6CB1ouX5

— Hodgetwins (@hodgetwins) November 24, 2024

Distrust in Media Narratives

Many on the right distrust media commentary about J6, with 60% expressing skepticism toward reporting. This group accuses legacy outlets of framing the events to serve partisan agendas, exaggerating their significance to foment outrage.

Voters discussing it say the media amplifies accusations around J6 to demonize Donald Trump and his supporters. This pervasive distrust toward media complicates a clear understanding or cohesive narrative, further entrenching divisions and reinforcing echo chambers.

Speculation and Conspiracy

There is a lot of speculation and conspiracy theories about J6 itself and the political fallout.

Those who believe J6 was manipulated for political gain speculate about corruption. They allege federal agents or political opponents infiltrated the protests to incite violence, framing J6 participants as insurrectionists. They view justice as unfairly applied, accusing figures like Nancy Pelosi and law enforcement agencies of facilitating or provoking the events.

J6 critics speculate about the political motivations of pardons and legal proceedings, suggesting these actions are strategic maneuvers to either protect Trump’s base or consolidate political power. This collective speculation on both sides emphasizes the uncertainty and distrust Americans have toward opposition and institutions.

Emotional Responses

• 55% of responses voice anger over perceived injustices or betrayal by political leaders.
• 25% is fear and anxiety, reflecting concerns about the future of democracy and the implications of legal and political decisions.
• 20% voice hope at a path to redemption for J6 participants through pardons or as a political opportunity for Donald Trump to regain momentum.

Recent reports suggest Comcast is preparing to sell MSNBC after increasingly dramatic ratings casualties post-election. Elon Musk, who has become infamous for purchasing Twitter in 2022, is making hay of the situation by joking about buying MSNBC.

People point out legacy media’s waning influence in America and the ratings bloodbath that has seen CNN and MSNBC viewership drop below that of the Hallmark channel, and reports of Rachel Maddow suffering a $5 million pay cut.

EMBARRASSING!😂@patrickbetdavid roasts CNN and MSNBC after report comes out that Hallmark beat them in viewership

"Imagine you wake up one day, and your producer comes to you, says guys Hallmark just beat us." pic.twitter.com/G3krDxjdBS

— PBD Podcast (@PBDsPodcast) November 23, 2024

Some are also suggesting that, should Musk buy MSNBC, he could give Alex Jones a show after being forced to sell InfoWars to The Onion. As the media landscape shifts, Americans are grappling the implications for social and political commentary.

I have a Christmas wish

This would be the ultimate slap in the face comeback 🔥 pic.twitter.com/Bn7xRx1ZVy

— Wall Street Apes (@WallStreetApes) November 24, 2024

The Crumbling Foundations of Trust

As MIG Reports has extensively covered, trust in legacy media is at all-time lows. Americans frequently describe outlets like MSNBC as biased and politicized purveyors of misinformation. They say elitists in the media are disconnected from the values and concerns of ordinary Americans.

This sentiment of distrust is compounded by fears of partisan agendas and corporate manipulation. People view legacy media institutions as gatekeepers of selective truths. Disillusioned with establishment narratives, Americans are increasingly flocking to places like X for more balanced coverage of current events.

The Search for New Icons

There is significant ideological disagreement in America around free speech, propaganda, and figures like Elon Musk. For some, Musk embodies the entrepreneurial spirit and resistance to censorship, while others view him as a dangerous consolidator of influence.

Similarly, people like Alex Jones serve as flashpoints for debates about freedom of speech and "misinformation,” revealing sharp ideological rifts. Thes popularity of these figures, while contentious, indicates a public desire for authenticity and accountability in an era of institutional fatigue.

Joy Rogan https://t.co/iJ3PSNWLf6 pic.twitter.com/UUHO7qqmW0

— The Right To Bear Memes (@grandoldmemes) November 22, 2024

The Rise of Speculative Thought

Amid these conversations, speculative thinking looms large. From theories of government corruption to economic collapse, Americans feel anxious about the future. Terms like “money laundering schemes” and “elite collusion” speak to skepticism toward the understandings and predictions provided by legacy media about current events.

Voters are tired of being forced to accept the viewpoints and constructs ordained by media institutions. They increasingly prefer to build their own interpretations of past events and speculations for the future without being force-fed a certain perspective.

Emotion as a Driving Force

The emotional landscape of these discussions is striking. Anger dominates, particularly in critiques of political and media establishments perceived as prioritizing elite interests over public welfare.

Yet, frustration coexists with flickers of hope, as some commenters express optimism for reform through disruptive figures like Musk and grassroots movements like the rise of citizen journalism. Meanwhile, an undercurrent of fear among elites and the media causes many to speculate their influence in coming to an end.

Shaping Public Narratives

The U.S. is experiencing a period of cultural and political upheaval, fracturing traditional narratives and power centers. This gives rise to a more fragmented but exciting era of populist realignment. Many feel this moment will be viewed in retrospect as a turning point in American culture and politics.

Many view media and governance as either oppressive forces to be dismantled or institutions to reform. The interplay of despair at the current situation and hope for dramatic changes creates a complex tapestry of thought.

Online, there is significant discourse about the impact Elon Musk has had on free speech in America. There is a segment of the population that attributes changing cultural tides to Musk’s and Trump’s polarizing but undeniable influence and impact.

Democratic responses to Allan Lichtman’s "13 Keys" election predictions and their failure to capture public sentiment accurately. In the aftermath of Trump’s decisive victory, Democrats continue to grapple with their understanding of the loss. Meanwhile, broader political developments expose a charged environment of frustration, speculation, and party tension.

While Lichtman’s forecasts remain a focal point, discussions touch on immigration, national safety, and leadership accountability, showing a party at odds with itself and its strategy.

I am not joking when I say this is one of the greatest clips I've ever seen on a cable news show.

Cenk completely destroys Alan Lichtman by pointing out that his keys to the White House were wrong and Lichtman responds by accusing him of blasphemy.😂pic.twitter.com/4G1YF3cxTy

— Greg Price (@greg_price11) November 19, 2024

Come on Lichtman, you didn't have to quit X. People will have stopped making fun of you in a year or so. pic.twitter.com/JuAy4uwQet

— MAZE (@mazemoore) November 20, 2024

Democratic Trends

• Trust in party leadership and political analysis like Lichtman’s "13 Keys" is waning, reflecting broader doubts about the Democratic Party’s understanding of public sentiment.
• Many commenters say the party's messaging does not resonate with Americans. They complain about woke ideologies and a lack of relatable figures in leadership.
• Voters worry about inflation, wages, and the overall economy. This, along with safety concerns, worsens critiques of Democratic governance and priorities.
• Despite frustration, some Democrats call for unity and constructive dialogue. They promote collective progress instead of finger pointing and blame.

Discussion Themes

Democrats are desperately searching for the cause of their catastrophic loss, trying to pinpoint explanations. Many were shocked by the inaccuracy of predictions like Lichtman’s or polls like Ann Selzer’s, creating confusion about which issues turned the tide.

Outrage and Accountability

Democratic frustration touches on the failures of leadership, pollsters, and analysis. Leadership figures like Secretary Mayorkas and Director Wray are criticized for actions voters feel are evasive or insufficient.

Statements such as "Mayorkas and Wray’s refusal to testify is an outrage" illustrate a sense of betrayal and neglect of responsibility. These sentiments echo broader calls for resignations and reforms within party leadership.

Safety and Immigration Concerns

Safety issues, particularly those tied to immigration, feature prominently in postmortem discussions. Tragedies involving fentanyl and violent crimes committed by illegal immigrants dominate narratives.

Comments like "Every day, 350 Americans die from cartel-imported fentanyl" link these crises to perceived Democratic policy failures, reflecting a growing anxiety about national security.

Speculation and Distrust in Leadership

Speculative language creates a tone of distrust toward Democratic leadership. Comments like, "Biden clearly does not want this war to end" convey dissatisfaction with foreign policy decisions and perceived ulterior motives. This speculation extends to domestic governance, with many calling for transparency and prioritizing voters’ concerns.

Democratic Friction and Calls for Reform

Party divisions are growing, with abundant critiques of Democratic leadership and party strategy. Terms like "profound failure" highlight dissatisfaction with the party’s current trajectory. Voters want "self-reflection" and appeals to "good people" in leadership positions point to a desire for transformative change.

Voters voice confusion and frustration with leadership. However, the media and the political class still seem unwilling or unable to accurately assess the strategic failures which led to Harris’s historic loss.

Watching Allen Lichtman completely unravel as he realizes Kamala is going to lose Pennsylvania is priceless comedy. 🤣 pic.twitter.com/KdsCk0mpG7

— Vince Langman (@LangmanVince) November 8, 2024