MIG Reports analysis of online conversations about rising bankruptcy filings coincides with wider economic worries. Bankruptcies have surged by 16% over the 12-month period ending March 31, 2024. This indicates American conversations about economic, social, and political concerns are more than worries. Voters express economic distress, financial instability, and fear the impact of government policies on their livelihoods.
The recent 16% increase in bankruptcy is similar to rates seen at the end of 2023. In the prior four years, bankruptcies were at their highest during COVID lockdowns. Despite coming down for the next three years, bankruptcy filings are now increasing again. Many attribute this to economic mismanagement by the Biden-Harris administration.
U.S. Courts data shows there were 467,774 new bankruptcy cases filed during the cited 12-month period, compared to 403,273 in the previous year.
Business bankruptcies saw a significant jump of more than 40%, rising from 14,467 cases in 2023 to 20,316 in 2024.
Non-business bankruptcies, which involve individuals, also increased by about 15%, from 388,806 cases to 447,458.
Families and Businesses are Struggling
Americans continue to grow more concerned about financial instability, including due to rising bankruptcy rates. Conversations mention the challenges families and small business owners face along with economic stress, financial insecurity, and debt relief.
The plight of small businesses, often cited as especially vulnerable to economic fluctuations, underscores broader concerns about market volatility and consumer behavior shifts.
Voters discuss the role of government policies, with many skeptical of the effectiveness of stimulus packages and economic recovery plans. Phrases like "too little, too late" and "lack of support" indicate a sense of frustration about the government’s meager responses to economic challenges.
Political accountability also emerges as a significant theme. Americans link the increase in bankruptcies to perceived failures in government leadership and economic management. Voters criticize “Bidenomics” and the Biden-Harris administration for its policies causing inflation, using terms like "government failure," and "poor leadership." This dissatisfaction leads to a broader call for reform and changed leadership.
The Mood is Sour on the Economy
The national emotional tone is one of anxiety, frustration, and skepticism. People feel overwhelmed and worried about their financial futures. They wonder how they will afford basic living costs, completely giving up on saving for the future or retirement. There is a sense of betrayal by the political establishment and those who continue to grow wealthier.
Anger and distrust coexist with smaller pockets of hope and resilience. Some conversations highlight a commitment to community support. Despite the larger economic struggle, Americans still talk about "supporting local businesses" and "community strength" reflecting a proactive attitude despite the challenging economic climate.
California is widely regarded as one of the most liberal states in the U.S., especially concerning its criminal justice policies. This perception has sparked significant debate among voters, exemplifying the ideological divides splitting Americans.
Progressives see California's governance as taking steps in the right direction toward equity. However, many worry its approach to crime and justice results in higher crime rates. They say California is paving the way for the nation, under a potential Harris presidency, to descend into rampant and increasing violent crime.
California: A National Model
Many Americans talk of California as the flagship state for rising crime, particularly violent crime. They attribute this increase to policies enacted by Democratic leaders in the state—whom many refer to as “California” or “San Francisco liberals.” Residents of lower-crime states view California’s policies as too lenient and prioritizing the rights of offenders over public safety.
Conversations often cite Proposition 47 as a key example of California’s approach to crime. Passed in 2014, Prop 47 reclassified certain nonviolent offenses, such as drug possession and petty theft, from felonies to misdemeanors. While the measure was intended to reduce the state’s prison population and redirect resources to crime prevention programs, many argue it has had the opposite effect.
Critics say Prop 47 has contributed to a rise in property crimes, such as shoplifting and burglary, by reducing the penalties for these offenses. They argue it emboldens criminals, leading to more frequent and brazen thefts by those who know they will face no consequences.
Some also point to the strain Prop 47 has placed on local law enforcement. By shifting the burden of dealing with offenders from state prisons to local jails, they argue, the law has overwhelmed local resources, leading to overcrowded jails. As a result, law enforcement is less likely to make arrests for downgraded crimes, further eroding public trust in the justice system.
Beyond Prop 47, California's SB 94 has also generated controversy. The bill, which allows some violent criminals, including murderers, to seek parole after serving 25 years, receives strong opposition. Critics say releasing violent offenders, especially murderers, is an egregious allowance that undermines the purpose of the justice system.
"They will be eligible as long as they have only kiIIed up to two people"
The role of prominent California politicians, particularly Vice President Kamala Harris, in shaping the state’s criminal justice landscape is another area of intense scrutiny. Harris, who served as California's Attorney General before becoming a U.S. Senator and later Vice President, has a complex legacy in this regard. While some view her as a committed reformer, others criticize her for what they see as a history of inconsistent and opportunistic decision-making.
Critics often point to Harris’s tenure as Attorney General, arguing her policies contributed to the decline of public safety in urban areas like San Francisco. They cite her support for measures they believe have exacerbated homelessness and crime, and they accuse her of failing to protect law-abiding citizens. This narrative portrays Harris as a progressive whose rhetoric claims to advocate for the people, but who is out of touch with safety threats to everyday Americans.
Harris’s involvement in the "defund the police" movement also draws significant backlash. Many voters see this movement as intentionally weakening law enforcement and endangering public safety.
Harris-Walz Makes California Crime National
The concerns about California’s criminal justice policies extend beyond the state’s borders. Many Americans fear California’s approach to many issues tends to be a model for national policies down the road. This feeling is heightened by California liberals like Harris rising to prominence on the national stage.
Many Americans in red states and non-coastal purple or blue states, which have more moderate cultures, view California’s policies as dangerously liberal. They believe, if implemented nationwide, lenient crime policies will continue to skyrocket violence and crime across the country.
Many voters are particularly concerned that, should Kamala Harris and Tim Walz take office, their policies will hasten America’s demise. Walz has gained significant criticism for his governance in Minnesota during the 2020 George Floyd riots. Harris continues to face criticism for her calls to defund the police and her contradictory record as both soft on crime and a tough prosecutor.
After Walz’s announcement as Democratic VP pick, mentions of crime spiked and sentiment dropped to 35%.
In the last week, sentiment has fluctuated in the low 40% range and sits at 41% today.
Kamala Harris also has poor approval on crime, hovering in the high 30% to low 40% range.
Some liberals view California as a progressive beacon, praising its emphasis on diversity, equity, and social justice. They argue the state’s proactive approach to issues like climate change, healthcare, and education represents the future of American governance. For these voters, California’s policies are not only necessary but morally just, offering a counterbalance to what they see as regressive policies in other parts of the country.
However, even among liberals, there is a growing recognition that California’s approach to crime and justice is not without its flaws. The discourse reveals significant doubts about whether the state’s progressive governance style truly aligns with the interests of its residents, especially when it comes to matters of public safety.
Emerging pro-Palestinian protests at the Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Chicago this week indicate complicated political dissent within the Party. These protests primarily target and criticize the Biden-Harris administration’s support for Israel.
Organized by various activist groups, including socialists and Antifa, these protests seek to draw attention to what the protesters describe as U.S. complicity in the "genocide" in Gaza.
Unfolding events at the DNC reveal intense emotions, strategic disruption, and a focus on pushing for systemic change in U.S. foreign policy. A glaring lack of protester criticism aimed at U.S. foreign policy in any other foreign conflict complicates the matter.
Protester silence is deafening on conflicts including but not limited to:
Russia-Ukraine War
Syrian Civil War
Yemeni Civil War
Insurgencies in Somalia and Iraq
Those who criticize pro-Palestine protesters suggest this lack of outrage over all human rights issues reveals the targeted nature of Palestine protests, specifically against the U.S. and Israel. This, critics say, reveals the anti-American and antisemitic nature of far-left progressive activism in the Democratic party supersedes its stated advocacy for humanitarianism.
Internal Conflict Among Democrats
Protests kicking off at the DNC center around criticizing Democratic leaders, with a particular focus on President Biden and Vice President Harris. Demonstrators are vocal in their accusations, claiming the U.S. government is funding Israeli actions against Palestinians.
Chants and shouts often include the phrase "Free Palestine,” underscoring the movement's stated objective. However, public discourse reveals a deeper complexity, as some question why the protests focus predominantly on the Democratic Party.
Critics argue Republicans, who have historically supported Israel, should also be targets of these protests. Discussions touch on the broader implications of these protests, with some voices expressing concern that the focus on Palestinian issues might come at the expense of other marginalized communities, such as black Americans.
Misaligned Priorities
Pro-Palestine protesters express urgency, anger, and frustration at Democratic leaders. They view the protests as a necessary and immediate response to what they perceive as grave injustices against Palestinians. They demand accountability from Democratic leaders like Biden and Harris.
However, there is also criticism of the protests, with some Democrats labeling the actions as misguided or overly focused on a single issue. This group is concerned about neglecting other important social justice causes.
Some criticize the protesters’ lack of concern for other wars, despite their stated grievance being human rights. The emotionally charged language used by both supporters and critics—featuring terms like "genocide," "shut down," and "Free Palestine"—reflects the divisions among Democrats.
Hidden in the Discourse: Intersectionality
Discourse around pro-Palestinian protests at the DNC reveals a growing awareness of intersectionality among younger voters and members of diverse ethnic backgrounds. These participants express a desire to align the Palestinian cause with broader social justice movements. They emphasize the importance of connecting the struggles of various marginalized groups.
This intersectional approach claims to build a more unified and inclusive activist front, where advocating for Palestinian rights does not overshadow but rather complements the efforts to address other systemic injustices. These injustices often include racial inequality and economic disparity. The emphasis on intersectionality highlights a shift in political activism, where the focus is not solely on a single issue but on a broader coalition that addresses multiple layers of oppression simultaneously.
A recent Gallup poll of American approval regarding immigration levels from 1965 through the present determined:
55% of Americans today want immigration reduced
25% want immigration levels to stay the same
16% want an increase in immigration numbers.
MIG Reports analysis of voter conversations online not only confirm polling data but reveal why Americans hold their current perspectives on immigration
Weighted Analysis
MIG Reports analysis weighs total discussion volume and approval percentages of immigration preferences by calculating the influence of each group's preference—decreased, maintained, or increased immigration—across multiple data sets.
By considering both the percentage of preferences within each data set and the total discussion volume of each set, the analysis determined the overall weighted preference.
MIG Reports analysis shows:
56.50% of voters nationally favor decreased immigration
26.22% favor maintaining current levels
17.29% favor increased immigration
Additionally, in swing states, around 70% of conversations favor reducing immigration.
In national conversations about the presidential election, 60% favor reducing immigration.
Why a Majority Wants Reduced Immigration
The predominant preference in voters discussions favors decreased immigration. This is driven by a variety of concerns revolving around national security, economic stability, and public safety.
Many Americans voice deep apprehension about illegal immigration as a major threat to the country’s security and economic well-being. Voters talk about reducing or stopping illegal immigration because they believe:
Illegal immigrants contribute to rising crime rates: Discussions mention gang activity and violent crimes linked to immigrant groups, particularly in urban areas.
An open order exacerbates economic challenges: People discuss job scarcity and inflation, arguing the influx of illegal migrants strains public resources like social services, healthcare, and housing.
There is widespread frustration and distrust toward Biden-Harris immigration policies, which voters view as too lenient. People direct their anger toward Democrats who they believe have failed to secure the border. Discussions emphasize a sense of urgency and alarm, with many advocating for stricter controls and even mass deportation policies.
Reasons for Maintaining Immigration Levels
Around 25% of voters in MIG Reports data advocate for maintaining current levels of immigration. They emphasize the need for a balanced and structured approach to the border. These voters typically argue that, while reforms may be necessary, a drastic reduction in immigration is not the solution.
Immigration advocates point out the importance of legal immigration pathways, highlighting the contributions of immigrants to the economy and society. They focus on the value of diversity and the critical role immigrant workers play in the economy. Here, they mention industries that rely heavily on labor from immigrant populations.
There is also a strong humanitarian element in these discussions. Voters want asylum seekers to have human rights protections. They argue a well-regulated immigration system can benefit the country by bringing in individuals who contribute positively to communities and the economy. Sentiments in this group are generally more optimistic and focused on the potential for policy reforms that balance security concerns with the need for inclusivity and economic growth.
A Minority Want Increased Immigration
The smallest segment of Americans supports increasing immigration levels. This view is driven primarily by humanitarian concerns and the belief in the positive impact of diversity. Often progressives and libertarians, this group focuses on America's moral and ethical responsibility to provide refuge to those fleeing persecution and violence.
Increased immigration proponents say the United States, as a nation built on immigration, has a duty to welcome those seeking better lives and to support their integration into society. They also emphasize the economic benefits of immigration, particularly the need for a growing workforce to sustain economic growth and address labor shortages in certain industries.
Advocates point out immigrants bring a wealth of skills, perspectives, and cultural richness which contributes to the vitality of the nation. Discussions include calls for comprehensive immigration reform that expands opportunities for legal immigration and strengthens support systems for newcomers. The tone in this group is often one of compassion and a belief in the long-term benefits of a more open and inclusive immigration policy.
Americans are feeling the pressure of drastically rising car insurance rates, particularly in addition to broader economic struggles. MIG Reports analysis shows online conversations predominantly focus on inflation, taxation policies, and the failures of Biden-Harris polices, including illegal immigration.
Auto insurance rates in the US have increased by 42% over the past 2 years.
That's the biggest 2-year spike since 1977, per Charlie Bilello.
The top keywords in car insurance discussions include inflation, taxes, premium, cost of living, and affordability. Americans voice concern about sharply increasing costs of living, which directly influence their ability to afford essential services like car insurance. Many people vent frustrations about how rising consumer prices affect their overall financial situation. There is widespread sentiment of anxiety about economic stability.
Voters connect their personal finances to broader political themes, citing government spending and tax policies as roots of inflation. This is a constant topic of conversation online, as people express deep frustrations. They discuss the financial strain on families, emphasizing the current trajectory of the economy is untenable for working-class Americans.
Voters Blame Democrats
Americans take critical tone toward government policies, particularly targeting the Biden administration and Democratic policies. People talk about policies like the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and other decisions that contribute to economic distress and debt, rather than easing it.
Voters are calling for accountability in government spending, angry about wasted tax dollars. Phrases like "kill us without killing us" signify the desperation many feel and the emotional weight of economic hardship. Inflation “kills” financial stability and livelihoods, impacts mental health and quality of life, and even causes direct physical harm in the worst of situations.
Criticism of the IRA links government actions to adverse economic consequences, framing policies as harmful to middle-class Americans. Distrust of leadership extends to discussions about tax burdens as people fear increased taxation on working individuals from Democrats who criticized Trump’s tax cuts.
Illegal immigration also receives blame as a secondary cause of inflation. People decry tax dollars being spent on unhelpful border programs, illegal immigrant welfare, and increased job competition. These wider pressures all contribute to higher costs for things like car insurance.
Immigration Concerns
Voters also discuss the impact of illegal immigration on national security and community safety, with some linking these issues to rising car insurance rates. They suggest illegal immigrants contribute to escalating crime rates and other societal challenges. This generates knock-on economic consequences such as rising car insurance rates.
Numerous states do not allow illegal immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses, which may also be a cause of increased insurance rates.
Alabama
Arizona
Arkansas
Florida
Georgia
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maine
Michigan
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
North Carolina
North Dakota
Ohio
Oklahoma
Pennsylvania
South Carolina
South Dakota
Tennessee
Texas
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming
Many believe an increased number of uninsured drivers distributes the cost of covering uninsured accidents to those who do have insurance. With rising crimes among illegal immigrants who are in a new country and culture, language and education barriers can create greater risks on the road. For many voters, this remains a plausible contributor to their ballooning insurance costs.
Discussion trends indicate fears about immigration frequently intersect with anxieties about economic stability. While some participants do not directly link illegal immigration to the rising costs of car insurance, there is an implied connection in the broader context of economic worries.
People do associate economic stress with illegal immigration and strained public services. The sentiment suggests a belief that increased illegal immigration burdens local communities and safety resources. This contributes to a heightened risk environment which causes things like increased insurance premiums.
MIG Reports analysis shows interesting trends in perceptions of Kamala Harris—specifically of her rise in popularity since taking over the Democratic presidential nomination. Online conversations reveal various sentiments among American voters with questions and critiques about her political standing and the dynamics of her approval ratings.
Independents
Discussion Trends
Independent voters often not the sudden shift in approval for Kamala Harris, with many questioning the reasons and timing of this change. They scrutinize her sudden approval swing spearheaded by the media and Democratic Party pundits, asking: why now?
This group speculates about the factors influencing Harris’s sudden increase in support. Many express skepticism, suggesting the soaring approval reported by Democrats and some polls may stem from manipulated narratives or strategic political maneuvers rather than genuine grassroots support.
Many in this voter group are concerned about Harris’s economic understanding and leadership capabilities. Words like "delusional," "basic economy," and "make America worse" communicate a strong disapproval of her leadership. People express a lack of faith in Harris’s ability to address critical issues like inflation.
Other recurring themes suggest she was “installed," in the nomination since she did not receive a single primary vote. Some call this idea "disgusting," indicating a belief that her rise violates norms of the democratic process. These suspicions further fuel cynicism about the sudden sea-change in Harris’s public approval.
Sentiment Trends
Independent voters are doubtful, expressing some hostility and anger, with very few supportive comments. The general tone is frustration with Harris’s lack of competence and the media and Democrats’ unwillingness to acknowledge her shortcomings. Many in this group fear drastically negative consequences if Harris is elected. People speculate about the "end of America," expressing the intensity of their concerns.
Many Independents point out the fact that Harris was deeply unpopular—even in her own party—just months ago. They cite the fact that her presidential campaign for the 2020 Democratic nomination ended in 2019 because of her unpopularity. Harris’s approval ratings have also been abysmal, along with Joe Biden’s, throughout their administration.
Someone just sent this to me. It's from 2021. I never saw it before. Jimmy Dore is awesome.
I remember posting this video, it got millions of views and even liberals were bashing Kamala in the comments. Susan Sarandon even commented that Kamala is a fraud.😂
Some recognize the political elite's influence in Harris’s rise to the top of the Democratic ticket. Others prefer to move forward and focus on criticizing the effectiveness of her policies. Both attack avenues reveal widespread unease in segments of the electorate regarding Democratic leadership, direction, and policy proposals.
Harris as a polarizing figure. While there are discussions of a perceived popularity surge, skepticism prevails. There are many Independents who are so archly opposed to Trump that criticism of Harris may fall by the wayside. But skepticism about how Democratic leaders use power and the extremism of Harris’s policies does not go unnoticed.
Democrats
Democrat voters have a diverse and evolving sentiment toward Kamala Harris, particularly as they reflect on leadership’s claims of her popularity within the party. Current conversations highlight a noticeable approval swing, prompting many to question its origins and the timing of this shift. Voter sentiment oscillates between admiration for her campaign capabilities and concerns regarding her performance in various vice-presidential responsibilities.
Pro-Kamala Means: She Isn’t Biden or Trump
Much of the positive sentiment toward Harris hinges on her opposition to Donald Trump. When contrasted with their perception of Trump, many Democrats express belief in her ability to articulate a coherent and positive message. They view this as stark contrast to what they describe as Trump’s "verbal diarrhea" and racist ravings.
Democrats talk about Harris’s "message," "narrative," and "crowds,” praising her chances to defeat Trump a second time. Supporters emphasize Harris’s large audiences at campaign rallies compared to accusations of thing crowds at Trump’s events. This pattern indicates a strategic narrative casting Harris as a dynamic, engaging candidate capable of rallying support, which seems crucial in recalibrating public approval.
Just six months ago, anti-establishment figure and comedian Jimmy Dore gained 2 million views on commentary videos mocking Vice President Harris. This criticism of her image and inconsistencies was a common trend, even among Democrats, since the 2020 Democratic primaries.
However, since Joe Biden’s withdrawal, Democratic voters have received an infusion of energy and enthusiasm. Following the first presidential debate between Biden and Trump, the Democratic Party was in despair at Biden’s plummeting odds. Replacing Biden with Harris has served to reenergize the base and incentivize those who criticized her in the past to find new admiration for their nominee.
Calcifying Racial Classes
Recent endorsements, such as from the Culinary Union in Nevada, further enhance Harris’s standing among Party loyalists. These endorsements serve as validation points that resonate with the demographic diversity of the voter base, including Latino, Black, AAPI, and immigrant communities. Harris's backing from significant organizations plays a role in enhancing her credibility and appeal among partisans.
Discourse also focuses on the claimed policy successes of the Biden-Harris administration. Supporters highlight improvements in agricultural commerce, which they claim stem from Democratic policies. The base touts Biden-Harris achievements as an antidote to perceived failures of Trump’s administration.
Sentiment Trends
Democratic sentiment trends reflect both enthusiasm and a sense of urgency as the election approaches. Supporters express a commitment to voter mobilization, with calls to action like "get off the couch and vote." The phrase "voting" alongside emotive language about unity among underrepresented groups reinforces an atmosphere of collective urgency.
Despite the positivity across many factions of the Democratic base, some skepticism and critique remain. This manifests in discussions questioning Harris’s presence on certain media platforms, with adversarial commentary about how she presents herself to different audiences.
There are some pockets of Democrats who say they cannot support Harris, including some politicians in red or purple districts. This group seems reluctant to forget why she was deeply unpopular until just a few weeks ago. They also highlight the fact that, as America learns more about her economic proposals, moderates and free market capitalists will remain opposed.
Current social discourse about Medicare premium hikes is critical of the healthcare system and political environment. Americans consistently focus on the financial burden rising Medicare costs impose on families, particularly those caring for elderly relatives.
The most prominent discussion centers on sharply increasing premiums, with many saying it’s becoming difficult to provide adequate care for aging parents. The conversations are filled with terms like “cost,” “affordability,” and “financial burden,” which highlight anxieties about the sustainability of Medicare in its current form.
Americans Can’t Afford to Care for Parents
Accompanying financial concern is skepticism toward politicians and their actions. Voters do not trust their current political leaders, particularly the Biden-Harris administration. Many are discussing reports that Kamala Harris is using taxpayer funds to hide Medicare premium hikes from voters before the election.
Voters believe the government is more focused on protecting political interests than addressing serious livability challenges for average citizens. People are frustrated with what they view as political manipulation, where critical information about healthcare costs is being obscured or misrepresented to avoid electoral consequences.
JUST IN: The Harris-Biden administration is reportedly using taxpayer funds to hide Medicare premium hikes from voters before the election.
Voters over the age of 65 should pay close attention to the CON GAME the Harris campaign is running on them with taxpayer dollars.
There are also critiques of perceived inadequacies in the current Medicare system. People share personal experiences of struggling with high out-of-pocket expenses, deductibles, and gaps in coverage. They say these issues are not being adequately addressed by existing policies.
Growing disillusionment permeates conversations, with many feeling Medicare is failing to meet the needs of seniors and their families. This frustration is compounded by the belief that politicians are not genuinely concerned with improving the system. Voters say Democrats like Harris are focused on maintaining a façade of progress while the situation deteriorates.
A Bad Idea Gets Worse
People say the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) claims to make healthcare more affordable, but it actually increases costs for those on Medicare. They cite several reasons:
Higher Premiums Due to New Protections
The IRA introduces new protections like a $2,000 cap on out-of-pocket drug costs. This is meant to prevent people from paying too much for their medications each year. However, to fund these new protections, Medicare may have to raise monthly premiums. This means, while some costs are controlled, the amount people pay each month for Medicare would rise. For families already struggling with rising healthcare costs, this could feel like another financial burden.
Complexity and Uncertainty
People worry changes will add complexity to an already confusing system. The prospect of premiums rising, even with caps in place, creates uncertainty about future healthcare expenses. Families trying to budget for the care of aging relatives might feel even more anxious as they are unsure how much they will need to pay each year. This is exacerbated by the potential for premium increases tied to new benefits.
Skepticism Toward Political Promises
The IRA’s provisions also feed into existing disapproval for political leaders like Kamala Harris. Many already distrust politicians, fearing they manipulate policies for electoral gain. The IRA, for which Harris was the deciding vote, creates promised benefits Americans view as hollow or overshadowed by the reality of higher premiums. This reinforces feelings that Harris and others implementing such policies are not transparent. Voters believe they prioritize their own political gain over truly easing the financial burden on families.
MIG Reports analysis confirms Americans continue to be deeply skepticism about the integrity and reliability of mainstream media sources. People often use terms like propaganda, lies, and gaslighting in reference to news reports from legacy outlets.
Public frustration centers around the perceived inability, and perhaps unwillingness, of media outlets to impartially report on issues such as immigration, government accountability, and political leadership. Many Americans often perceive modern journalism as essentially the communications arm of the government.
The Media Carries Water for Politicians
Central to this conversation is the idea of truth,” which appears frequently as individuals scrutinize the motivations behind political and news cycle narratives. Americans express dissatisfaction with how government officials communicate about contentious topics like immigration and the economy.
For instance, phrases like "fighting to fix our broken immigration system" are met with skepticism, as the public questions genuine intentions versus politically expedient placating. Voters feel the media plays a large role in obscuring the truth, especially when it comes to reporting on government actions.
Many feel the truth about and implications of government policies on citizens' daily lives is obfuscated by news reports following the Biden administration’s talking points. This sentiment is recurring in previous analyses in which Americans feel starved for transparency and substance in political dialogue.
Questions of media bias and accountability also emerge, with many Americans advocating for greater scrutiny on political narratives. People believe media outlets are complicit in propagating political agendas rather than holding politicians accountable. They say journalism often prioritizes sensationalism over factual reporting. Calls for a return to media ethics and transparency in political dealings abound.
Voters Want Transparency and Accountability
There’s a sense of urgency for accountability and honesty within media and government discourse. Many on the right also lament apparent censorship of opposing viewpoints by mainstream media and big tech.
Many fear the consequences of poor policy decisions, especially on immigration and economic hardships. They believe that, because the media refuses to report honestly, Americans struggle to find accurate information, remaining ill-informed. The level of public trust in legacy media is dismally low.
Public sentiment is negative toward government, with the Biden-Harris administration as focal points for criticism. Voters highlight specific policies, such as the open border and the Inflation Reduction Act as examples of Democratic failures to prioritize the welfare of American citizens. For many, there is a disconnect between governmental promises and actual outcomes.
Social media reactions to Joe Biden's statement to the press, "My policies are working. Start writing that way, OK?" are overwhelmingly critical. Americans express significant frustration and cynicism about Biden’s meaning. Many perceive this remark as an attempt to dictate media narratives rather than addressing substantive issues affecting the economy—especially inflation on Biden’s watch.
Reporter asks about inflation.
President Biden: "I told you you're going to have a soft landing...my policies are working. Start writing that way, okay?" pic.twitter.com/sHebANBv06
Critics accuse Biden of trying to direct the mainstream media to spin the narrative in his administration’s favor. Phrases like propaganda, media manipulation, and censorship frequently appear in conversations. People express outrage at what they see as a blatant attempt to control the media's reporting on Biden's policies.
American feel that, rather than focusing on fixing the economy, Biden is more concerned with how he is perceived. This appears disingenuous to voters, revealing how far out of touch Biden is with the struggles of ordinary Americans.
The Emperor's New Clothes Narrative
A dominant theme in the criticism is America’s consistently escalating inflation issues. Voters highlight the disconnect between Biden's claim that his policies are working and the economic realities they face. Many point to rising prices and stagnant wages as evidence his policies are not working at all.
Terms like inflation crisis, out of touch, and government failure encapsulate the prevailing negative sentiment. Reactions suggest widespread frustration with the administration's lack of effort to fix the economy, particularly the perception that Biden is attempting to shift blame rather than take responsibility.
Voters feel betrayed by Biden's focus on media narratives, while ignoring the real economic pain people feel in day-to-day life. There is anger that, instead of addressing these concerns head-on, the president is trying to influence how his policies are reported. Criticism is harsh as people call Biden tone-deaf and say he's only interested in appearances and maintaining popularity.
The Myth of an Independent Media
Americans also harbor deep suspicions toward the media. They engage vigorously in conversations about the growing subservience of the media to partisan narratives. Many believe the media has lost any appearance of an independent stance. This is demonstrated in Stephen Colbert’s studio audience laughing when he sincerely said CNN is “objective” and “reports the news as it is.”
Stephen Colbert trying to say CNN is objective only to have his own crowd laugh at him is objectively funny. pic.twitter.com/kQ8yCPdg16
Online conversations often mention certain keywords together like:
Media
Government
Obedience
Bias
Corruption
People express sentiments of distrust towards the media, suggesting it aligns too closely with Democratic talking points. Many view the media as liberal, biased, and consistently lying to them. They vocalize a belief that media entities are complicit in supporting Biden’s agenda rather than providing objective reporting.
Public sentiment is heavily skeptical regarding the media’s integrity and independence from Democratic influence.
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