Governor Kathy Hochul’s revival of congestion pricing has sparked heated debate among New Yorkers, amid widespread frustrations with her administration.

Hochul’s proposal, set to begin in January 2025, introduces a $9 toll for vehicles entering Manhattan's Central Business District during peak hours. This is intended to reduce traffic congestion and generate approximately $15 billion for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority's capital projects.

The initiative has faced criticism from various groups, including New Yorkers, with a viral clip of Hochul explaining the tax could have been $15, but instead is only $9. Many point out the incoherence of presenting this as a savings, when non-congestion pricing is nothing.

Did Kathy Hochul just do the Tik Tok trend “girl math” with congestion pricing? https://t.co/TSRfYqtTOq

— West Village Guy (@VillageWest14) November 18, 2024

A Tax Burden on the Working Class

Perceived Inequity

New Yorkers see the $9 toll for entering Manhattan as a financial burden disguised as a cost-saving measure. While Hochul frames it as a reduction from $15, critics say, regardless of the cost, the tax disproportionately affects middle- and lower-income groups who depend on their vehicles for commuting. The toll, coupled with high living costs and inflation, adds to their already stretched budgets.

Distrust in Leadership

Many commenters express skepticism about Hochul’s fiscal priorities. Complaints focus on mismanagement of taxpayer dollars, highlighting issues like fare evasion on public transit and rising costs without corresponding improvements. New Yorkers see the toll as generating revenue at the expense of struggling residents.

Dissatisfaction with Public Spending

Critics frequently cite misallocation of state resources as a point of frustration. Funds directed toward illegal immigrant assistance are often contrasted with unmet needs in transit efficiency and public safety. This fuels sentiments that Hochul’s administration is out of touch with the struggle to afford living in New York.

Political Discontent

Leadership Critiques

New Yorkers and outside observers regularly criticize Governor Hochul as a perfect representation of extreme liberalism. They accuse her of being an elite, disconnected from voter realities. This perception is tied to broader frustrations with Democratic leadership in New York, which many view as prioritizing ideological goals over practical governance.

Economic and Crime Concerns

People view the congestion toll as part of a pattern of rampant governance failures. Critics link it to other policies they feel have worsened the quality of life, such as lenient bail reform laws and insufficient measures to address crime and public safety.

Ideological Priorities

The policy also intensifies debates about liberal dominance in state politics. Many call for a political overhaul and alternatives to what they view as corrupt and ineffective leadership. This dissatisfaction is a rallying point for voters considering Republican candidates.

Transparency and Incompetence

Revenue Allocation Skepticism

Distrust in how toll revenue will be used is a recurring theme. Many question whether funds will genuinely improve transit or if they will be lost to bureaucratic inefficiency. New Yorkers are offended at the audacity of Hochul to frame the $9 toll as a “savings,” calling it condescending and deceptive.

Messaging and Public Trust

Hochul’s communication around congestion pricing alienates voters who already feel neglected and taken advantage of by leaders. Many find the messaging tone-deaf, with comments suggesting the public is insulted by the idea that implementing a $9 toll is actually a win for government.

A 🧵looking at the Governor's statement announcing the return of the #CongestionPricing tax:
1) This isn't a "40% reduction in Congestion Pricing Tolls"... the toll is $0 today. This is a 100% increase in Congestion tolls to $9. This is Orwellian. pic.twitter.com/BhoGAAaZdF

— Joe Borelli (@JoeBorelliNYC) November 14, 2024

Financial Burden on Workers

Union members and leaders view congestion pricing as an unfair burden on working-class and middle-income families. They say a toll disproportionately impacts those who rely on vehicles due to limited public transit options.

Public Transit Issues

Union voices align with broader critiques of the MTA, citing fare hikes and declining service quality. They argue congestion pricing shifts financial responsibility onto vulnerable populations instead of addressing poor transportation management.

Union Opposition and Mobilization

Legal challenges, such as a United Federation of Teachers (UFT) lawsuit to stop the congestion pricing program, illustrate the growing opposition to New York governance from unions. Many Teamsters view Hochul’s policies as predatory, reiterating the shift away from Democratic politics which was clearly demonstrated in the 2024 presidential election.

Recent reports allege the Harris campaign spent the $1 billion dollars it fundraised, and after only 107 days, ended the campaign with a $20 million debt. This news elicits sharply negative voter reactions.

Reactions point to widespread perceptions of fiscal irresponsibility and elite detachment from American concerns. Voters express thankfulness that Harris lost, fearing such spending habits are indicative of Democratic tendencies with U.S. tax dollars.

Spender Versus Earner

Harris’s spending failures brighten the promises of fiscal conservatism by Trump.

• Financial Accountability: Trump supporters contrast his fiscal conservatism with Harris’s extravagant spending. Many align with his message of spending cuts, small government, and prioritizing taxpayer interests.
• Good for Trump: As the Harris budget deficit fuels perceptions of elitist excess, GOP and Independent voters call for Trump’s straightforward approach to budget efficiency and fiscal responsibility.
• Public and Private: Some point out that Trump’s success in the private sector earning money contrasts sharply with a career politician like Harris who is used to only spending.

Government Disgust

Across voter demographics, reactions indicate a strong sense of distrust and disgust at the Harris campaign’s fiscal management.

• Democrat Finances: Voters are in disbelief at the scale of spending by the Harris campaign, tying it to their criticism of overall government inefficiency.
• Wasting Money: Many see the campaign’s budget handling as emblematic of Democratic financial mismanagement. They say funds are wasted on ineffective initiatives that do not produce results—just like the Harris campaign.
• Incompetence: People criticize Harris’s campaign, linking it to longstanding frustrations with the Biden administration’s economic policy. Voters say budget issues reinforce views of Democratic leadership as fiscally irresponsible.

Disconnected from Voter Reality

The budget revelations come at a particularly tense economic time, with inflation and cost-of-living concerns dominating public sentiment.

• Elite Waste: Americans contrast their financial struggles with the extravagant political spending by elites for celebrity appearances and concerts. They say the billion-dollar fundraising was squandered, producing no benefits.
• Economic Realities: People view Harris’s spending as out-of-touch with economic reality and offensive to families struggling to make ends meet. They say the campaign prioritized campaign optics over reaching out to voters.

The anger and criticism are especially pronounced among working- and middle-class voters. The economic divide between political elites and regular Americans intensifies disgust as people express hope for budget accountability from the coming Trump administration.

The Israel, Iran, Ukraine, and Russia conflicts are wearing on the American people. There is now a shift in landscape of voter sentiment regarding these foreign issues. Even those who consistently support U.S. involvement in international conflicts are now expressing frustration our government prioritizing foreign aid over domestic needs.

While a minority still advocates for aggressive military responses, particularly in defense of Israel and as a deterrent to Iran, the emerging consensus is that America’s resources should be used on domestic priorities like inflation, disaster recovery, and the welfare of citizens.

• 42% of voters support military action
• 40% oppose foreign aid
• 18% criticize ongoing foreign conflict

Financial Burden

A recurring theme in voter discussions is dissatisfaction with the billions of dollars streaming into foreign countries like Ukraine. Americans view this as a prime example of how U.S. leadership, particularly the Biden administration, prioritizes other countries over Americans.

Some compare $24 billion allocated to Ukraine with the pitiful financial relief provided to Hurricane Helene victims at home, voicing frustration. Citizens decry high inflation, gas prices, and insufficient FEMA aid, questioning the rationale for continued military support abroad.

Economic concerns fuel much of the opposition to foreign aid and military engagement. People see a disconnect between the billions sent abroad and the financial hardships Americans face. Voters want U.S. military and financial resources to be used for domestic issues like inflation, unemployment, and disaster relief.

Americans say funding conflicts in Ukraine, Israel, or elsewhere is a betrayal of American taxpayers. The phrase “America First” resonates strongly in these discussions, emphasizing a desire for the government to refocus its priorities on the welfare of its own citizens.

Not My Monkeys, Not My Circus

Public sentiment around Israel also reveals deep divides. While there is still significant support for Israel's right to defend itself against threats from Iranian proxies like Hezbollah and Hamas, this pro-military stance is shrinking.

Many advocates view Israel’s aggressive military tactics as necessary self-defense, especially in the face of recent missile strikes from Iran. However, the conversation now criticizes U.S. military aid to Israel, calling out the humanitarian crises in Gaza and Lebanon, and questioning whether these actions truly align with American interests.

Views or Iran are similarly divided. Some say a growing military presence and missile strikes against Israel is justification for a more aggressive U.S. response. Others call for diplomacy and caution.

Pro-military action views say the Biden administration’s softer approach emboldens Iran, escalating tensions. They say the Trump administration’s stringent sanctions would have prevented these dangers.

However, many are voicing opposition to further involvement in the Middle East. People perceive U.S. involvement as expensive with little benefit to the average American.

America FIRST

Overall, Americans indicate desire for a shift towards prioritizing domestic economic stability over foreign engagements. The pro-war perspective, once dominant, is now being overshadowed by calls for the U.S. to address its own challenges before intervening overseas.

This sentiment reflects a growing awareness that America’s long-term stability may be in jeopardy. Voters want to do everything possible to secure their own futures before extending support abroad.

Over the weekend, social media buzz erupted over a Minneapolis taxpayer-funded food pantry controversy for its “no whites allowed” policy. This food pantry, Food Trap Project Bodega, is now closed only a few months after opening.

NEW: Taxpayer-funded Minneapolis food pantry was forced to close and relocate after it BANNED White people from using it

Mykela 'Keiko' Jackson used a Minnesota State grant to create the Food Trap Project Bodega near the Sanctuary Covenant Church in Minneapolis

The pantry,… pic.twitter.com/kgk1beAOzC

— Unlimited L's (@unlimited_ls) September 28, 2024

The policy of excluding white people from its services generated backlash over increasingly fragile societal divides. These reactions range from strong opposition to conditional support, reflecting how people process race, privilege, and the role of public welfare.

Reactions to the Food Pantry

MIG Reports data shows:

• 52.5% of comments were negative, viewing the policy as discriminatory and counterproductive. Critics say racial exclusion undermines equal access to public resources and fosters division.
• 32.5% voiced support, viewing the policy as necessary to address historical inequities faced by marginalized groups, emphasizing its role in reparative justice.
• 15% were neutral or mixed, recognizing the complexities of balancing equity and fairness but questioning the long-term impact of such divisive measures.

Underlying the polarized responses is a struggle with American identity itself—how we define fairness, meritocracy, and justice in society. This suggests a societal negotiation about appropriate ways to address historical wrongs without demonizing certain groups.

Those who oppose the pantry banning white people point to individualism, arguing race should not determine access to resources. But supporters often adopt a collectivist viewpoint, suggesting race-based inequities must be addressed for progress.

Supporters suggests there is merit to concepts promoted by people like Ibram X. Kendi who originally wrote, “"The only remedy to racist discrimination is antiracist discrimination."

Ibram X. Kendi has admitted defeat. In the latest edition of his book, Kendi has deleted his most famous quotation—"The only remedy to racist discrimination is antiracist discrimination"—and blames white people for making him look racist.

Good work, everyone. pic.twitter.com/z73luNKV4O

— Christopher F. Rufo ⚔️ (@realchrisrufo) June 2, 2023

MIG Reports analysis reveals the emotional intensity of public reactions, but also the ideological undercurrents shaping these opinions.

This event serves as a microcosm of broader debates on race, public resources, and the ways policies intersect with personal and historical narratives. It underscores the fraught nature of racial issues in American, where divisive measures generate deep societal fractures.

MIG Reports analysis of California and Oregon, two very blue areas, potentially granting home loans to illegal immigrants shows voter reactions. Conversations reveal tensions around progressive housing policy, immigration, and broader societal implications. Americans talk about fairness, the impact on local citizens, and the underlying values of national identity.

Outrage

A predominant theme often centers around unfairness. Many Americans express outrage at the possibility of providing financial benefits, such as home loans, to illegal aliens. They assert giving tax dollars to non-citizens undermines the sacrifices made by lawful citizens and would exacerbate existing housing crises.

Most comments call this proposed policy detrimental, highlighting concerns that it would contribute to rising real estate prices and lead to increased taxation burdens on American homeowners. This sentiment includes fears about economic survival and stability for established residents who already feel stretched by high living costs.

Inclusion Versus Replacement Theory

More progressive Americans frame the discussion around compassion and inclusivity. They argue the changing demographic landscape necessitates a re-evaluation of who deserves access to resources.

Advocates say illegal immigrants contribute to the economy and society and deserve opportunities for home ownership—a key piece of the American dream. This group says inclusive housing policies foster community cohesion and economic growth, especially amid labor shortages in crucial sectors.

There is also contrast in national versus local identity, with many discussions touching on the broader ramifications of such policies. Critics worry aiding illegal immigrants could attract more foreign nationals seeking similar benefits, straining local resources.

But supporters contend neighbors who support immigrants inherently enrich local culture and community bonds. This clash between a nationalistic viewpoint and a cosmopolitan approach reveals deeper societal debates about America’s values. This brings into question ideas of opportunity, assimilation, and fairness.

Without Representation

Fear and anger emerge as strong emotional responses, with many Americans saying home loans for illegal migrants would be a legal and moral failure.

The emotions hint at a broader anxiety about political representation and government neglect of American citizens. Comments often voice frustration at government actions that Americans feel compromise their rights and economic welfare.

MIG Reports analysis shows:

• 40% express concern over unfairness and economic burden
• 30% advocate for compassion and inclusivity in policy
• 20% voice anxieties about national identity and local resources
• 10% articulate mixed feelings, revealing a desire for balanced discussion

Voter views of home loans for illegal immigrants are deeply entwined with larger partisan debates about immigration reform, societal values, and economic impacts. Each side of the discussion grapples with fundamental principles of justice and opportunity.

Higher education discussions online revolve around student loans, government spending, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in educational environments. MIG Reports analysis of sentiment trends in these discussions indicates a growing concern about the influence of leftist ideologies in academia. A particular focus is on the operations and ideologies promoted by higher education professors.

A survey from American Association of University Professors reveals a structured integration of DEI in tenure practices across universities. Today, many institutions have adopted DEI criteria to allegedly combat bias.

Increasingly, professors must demonstrate a strong commitment to DEI in order to receive tenure.

A 2022 survey by the American Association of University Professors found 46% of large universities have DEI criteria included in tenure standards (along w/ teaching & research). pic.twitter.com/6w5tKuHogF

— The Missing Data Depot (@data_depot) August 18, 2024

Taxpayers Funding Loans

Voters are angry about Democratic proposals to give tax-funded financial assistance to those who don’t qualify as citizens or taxpayers. Americans are against what they view as "liberal" financial strategies like student loan forgiveness and financial assistance schemes for homebuyers.

The federal government has significantly increased its role in managing and alleviating the financial burden of student loans for some students. Biden-Harris initiatives claim to protect borrowers from escalating debt and ensuring financial relief.

Voter backlash is identifiable in conversations about student loans and government spending. People are frustrated at government policies that assist specific demographic groups—like the college educated upper-middle-class and illegal immigrants—at the expense of taxpayers.

DEI in Universities

Discussions about DEI are also in conversations about higher education. Many say DEI initiatives serve as a mechanism for left-leaning ideologies to permeate higher education systems.

The phrase "driving the direction of higher education" frequently arises, emphasizing the belief that DEI principles significantly influence curricula and the behaviors of educators. Critics say DEI steers conversations and practices away from traditional academic rigor into ideologically driven social justice.

Many people call DEI a form of ideological indoctrination. They say it destroys merit-based assessments and fosters a discriminatory environment against certain races and viewpoints.

Voter Reactions

Public sentiment towards DEI and government subsidies for loans skews negative. Approximately 65% of conversations reflect a belief that DEI and leftism are influential forces negatively shaping higher education. People believe DEI is contributing to division based on ideological beliefs.

Conversations reveal parallels between the broader political climate and higher education issues. Greater economic anxiety and frustration at governmental overreach overlaps with disapproval of financial assistance and DEI policies in colleges and universities.

Comments suggest taxpayers feel they are being compelled to subsidize systems that disproportionately favor certain groups. They resent tax dollars going to wealthy college graduates and those who have not contributed to the tax base. They blame this on Biden’s student loan forgiveness program and Harris’s proposed housing initiatives for illegal immigrants.

Overall, conversations about financial assistance programs in the current economy are dominated by concerns about fiscal responsibility. There is also resentment toward ideological indoctrination and the perceived failures of DEI initiatives. While some advocate for these progressive programs, much of the public dialogue is critical.

The general sentiment among Americans is best encapsulated by the consensus—65%—viewing DEI and leftism as reshaping higher education and influencing fiscal policy.

MIG Reports data shows increasing conversations about potential U.S. dollar decline, the Laffer Curve, and policy hypocrisy from Kamala Harris. Americans continue to discuss the Biden administration’s fiscal policies and the failure of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA).

Some say the IRA impacted the U.S. economy positively, but many criticize its results as contradicting its promises. Negative discourse also extends to the Federal Reserve's monetary policy, where inflation, interest rates, and economic management strategies further polarize opinions. Overall, there is growing apprehension about America's economic future.

Many economists utilize the Laffer Curve as a general theory, though it is not an exact instrument. The Laffer Curve illustrates the relationship between tax rates and tax revenue, showing there is an optimal tax rate which maximizes revenue. If tax rates are too low, the government collects less revenue. If tax rates are too high, it can discourage economic activity, also decreasing revenue. The curve suggests both very low and very high tax rates can negatively impact revenue.

Concerns over the implications of analysis using the Laffer Curve highlight these facts:

• 2019 tax revenue per person was $12,628 while tax spending was $16,188
• 2023 tax revenue per person was $13,341 while tax spending was $18,406
• Tax revenue per person increased by approximately 5.65%
• Tax spending per person increased by approximately 13.70%

This increased government spending continues to widen disparities between tax revenue and tax spending. In recent comments, economist Art Laffer also suggested the U.S. dollar may jeopardize its status as the world’s reserve currency saying, “the U.S. government’s use of the dollar as a political weapon, through sanctions and other measures, has eroded international trust in the currency.”

Economist Art Laffer Slams US Economic Policies, Warns of Dollar's Decline as Global Reserve Currency - #Economics https://t.co/rRPRxNCTNT

— Bitcoin.com News (@BTCTN) August 10, 2024

Harris’s Hypocritical Fiscal Policy

Voter sentiment about the Inflation Reduction Act is negative. Many blame current economic struggles on this policy—including high inflation, increased IRS oversight, and elevated costs for goods and services.

VP Kamala Harris, who cast the deciding vote to pass the IRA, regularly attracts criticism in online conversations. People describe the IRA as a political maneuver that, contrary to its name, exacerbated inflation rather than mitigating it. Many people also view it as especially harmful to low-income workers.

Harris also generates extreme negativity for recent claims in a campaign speech that she plans to remove taxes on tips. People accuse her of plagiarism, pointing out that Donald Trump began promoting this concept back in June.

People point out that Harris’s deciding vote on the IRA directly contradicts her new promise. They highlight the policy’s IRS expansions to pursue taxpayers for not paying taxes. They cite that the IRS, under the Biden-Harris administration, rolled out a “tip reporting” program in February to improve tip reporting compliance.

Kamala Harris, who now claims to be against taxing tips, was the tie-breaking vote on the Inflation Reduction Act, which expanded the IRS so it could go after people not paying taxes on tips.

Incredible stuff. The most inauthentic, astro-turfed campaign in history. pic.twitter.com/9Nne61oJPi

— Bonchie (@bonchieredstate) August 11, 2024

Sentiment trends are unmistakably negative when discussing Biden-Harris administration fiscal policies. People associate Harris with increased financial hardship and increasingly accuse her of disingenuous flip-flopping.

The reliability of sentiment analysis is high given the volume and consistency of negative feedback. Common themes include accusations that the IRA was a disguised effort to push progressive agendas rather than control inflation.

Voters complain that targeting tips for tax revenue, as Harris has very recently done, impacts lower income households who rely on tip wages. People allege misallocation of funds under Harris toward initiatives like climate change and say overall tax burdens on middle-class families are increasing.

Partisan proponents of the IRA and the Biden-Harris administration cite lowered prescription drug costs and clean energy advancements as key benefits. Opponents argue these benefits are overshadowed by overarching economic downturn, characterizing the IRA as a net negative.

Trump Versus Harris Tax Policies

The concept of the Laffer Curve influences discussions on tax cuts and their impact on revenue and economic growth. Some also debate fiat currency and the Federal Reserve's role in managing the U.S. dollar. Public sentiment is divided on these topics, as some distrust the Fed's control over fiat money, advocating alternatives like Bitcoin. Many Americans view the Federal Reserve as increasing inflation and debt through money printing, though some also believe it is a stabilizer in financial crises.

Sentiments towards Kamala Harris regarding the economy is largely negative. Voters are skeptical about her promises to eliminate taxes on tips. They see the claims as politically motivated, pandering, and an attempt appropriate Trump's populist policy proposals.

Democratic VP nominee Tim Walz also faces criticism for how he handled Minnesota’s budget surplus. Voters say his tax hikes during surplus periods caused inefficient economic management.

The narrative around Trump's tax policies is nostalgic as voters recall his tax cuts. There is pronounced positivity toward middle-class and small business tax savings. Voters highlight Trump's previous economic measures, like the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, as significant achievements that benefited the American workforce.

Trump's proposal earlier this year to eliminate federal tax on tips has been positively received by voters. Many suggest this is why Kamala Harris suddenly adopted the idea as well, despite looking hypocritical in doing so. People also lambast the media for how they report on Harris proposing no tax on tips versus how they reported Trump's initial proposal. One stark example gaining criticism is CBS news, which framed it as a tragic loss of tax revenue under Trump then, subsequently, a win for service and hospitality workers under Harris.

What an honest media we have.

SAME policy. Different candidates. pic.twitter.com/PJHcEB5M9y

— Wesley Hunt (@WesleyHuntTX) August 12, 2024

Trending directions indicate an increasing anxiety about the potential for recession. Americans worry about recent stock market crashes, heightened geopolitical uncertainties, and economic policies that perpetuate instability. Voters pay attention to economic indicators like unemployment rates and GDP growth. Any shifts are met with calls for urgent rate cuts to stimulate economic activity.

Online conversations about Gen Z and Millennial Americans’ retirement prospects reveal anxieties about stability and future financial security. The younger generations harbor severe skepticism about their financial situations and the trajectory of the economy. They are critical of government and leadership actions, especially the Biden-Harris administration.

Retirement? I Can’t Afford Food

When thinking about the future, people talk about inflation, taxation, employment, and energy policies. One prominent concern is increasing inflation, which many attribute to legislation like the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). Many view the IRA as exacerbating rather than alleviating inflationary pressures.

Others repeat government talking points that Democratic policies have been instrumental in curbing inflation. They reference statistics like the lowering of inflation to 2.5% over the past year.

Younger voters constantly worry about the rising cost of living. There is widespread sentiment that everyday expenses like gas, groceries, and housing, have outrageously unaffordable. Many attribute this surge in costs to the economic decisions made by the federal government.

Americans particularly criticize federal spending on various relief and infrastructure bills. These discussions prominently mention the adverse effects on average American households. They say financial strain is significantly hindering their ability to contribute to retirement savings and long-term financial planning.

Taxes are also a huge topic among younger voters, although many are split in their views on tax policies. Some express concern about increasing tax burdens, particularly related to Democratic plans to eliminate Trump-era tax cuts. People mention potential hikes and wealth redistribution through social programs, which they say disproportionately affect the middle and lower economic classes.

Trending keywords include:

• Inflation
• Taxes
• Cost of living
• Bidenomics
• Inflation Reduction Act
• Job market
• Social Security
• Economic policies

Sentiment Patterns

Voter sentiment is mostly negative about the current economic climate. This is especially pronounced with criticisms of the Biden-Harris administration's handling of economic policies, inflation, and national debt.

Demographically, the critiques appear to span various regions and economic classes, with large numbers of middle-class and working-class Americans expressing dissatisfaction. Millennials and Gen Z voices are prominent, expressing concerns about the future. They mention things like student loan burdens, job market uncertainties, and the feasibility of homeownership and retirement savings plans.

Geographically, sentiments fluctuate across both liberal and conservative states. However, there does seem to be a national preoccupation with economic issues. While sentiments occasionally vary, the core concerns of rising costs and economic instability appear to be universal.

MIG Reports data shows recent online discussions about economic hardships with inflation as a critical point of anxiety. Several key topics are frequently discussed among Americans as they react to their current economic struggles.

Many Americans are feeling significant cost increases day to day—particularly for essential items like food, gas, and housing. A lot of people point out this inflation disproportionately affects the middle and lower classes. Sentiment is frustration with anxiety about financial stability and the future.

Top Concerns for Americans

One of the big worries voters discuss is taxation. There is growing frustration about the fairness of the current tax system. Some critics—often on the left—say it favors the wealthy and large corporations at the expense of the middle class.

Higher taxes, particularly under Democratic policies, make people feel burdened as they are already struggling. Both working-class Democrat voters and right leaning voters have complaints about taxes on the middle class.

Employment and job security are also significant themes. People worry about corporations outsourcing American jobs, as in the case of Zoom cashiers in New York City. They also talk about the impact of union policies on job availability for blue collar workers.

Job concerns are intertwined with fears about the sustainability and dignity of the American middle-class workforce. Many middle- and working-class Americans worry about losing their jobs or not being able to find a job.

High inflation remains a top concern as well. Voters believe inflation rates are unacceptable and unsustainable. The rising cost of living, particularly groceries and housing, puts a significant strain on household budgets.

High interest rates also create a barrier for most Americans to purchase homes. This further adds to economic anxiety. Many voters also express displeasure with high gas prices, which have a cascading effect on their overall cost of living.

Dissatisfaction with Bidenomics

American families feel frustration, distrust in leadership, and a desire for change. Trump supporters are particularly vocal about reversing current policies they believe are detrimental to the economy. They dislike Biden policies they see as affecting fuel prices and border security.

Many argue Biden administration policies are increasing economic strain by exacerbating inflation and increasing layoffs. There is a distinct shift among some undecided voters and potential Biden defectors. They express sharp dissatisfaction with how Biden has handled the economy.

Talk about tangible economic outcomes which a second Trump administration might bring is increasing Trump’s support. Exasperated voters reminisce about the successes of his previous administration. They cite lower taxes, reduced regulation, and economic growth and appear to be attracting undecided voters and others dissatisfied with Biden.

Another positive discussion point is Trump’s proposal to exempt tips from tax. Many Americans hope for a return to policies that benefit the middle class. They want leaders who will address specific pain points like inflation and job security.

Conversely, Biden’s support drops with any spotlighting on his economic failures. Reminders of persistent inflation, high taxes, and a poor job market disheartens voters about his capability to manage the country's economy.

Stressing the immediate and visible impacts of pressing economic issues on everyday life resonates with those feeling the pinch in their own finances.