Axios recently reported the Kamala Harris campaign was using Google ads to appear as credible news stories. This paid advertising tactic is frowned upon in politics because it suggests allegedly objective news outlets support one candidate over another.
Harris’s ads framed her as the superior candidate while attacking her opponent, Donald Trump. MIG Reports analysis of conversations about this story shows voters treat this generally as unethical and shady.
The Kamala Harris campaign has been running google ads that link to mainstream media articles, but with headlines rewritten by her campaign to appear more supportive
This makes it look to people using Google that the news outlets are saying what her campaign wrote, even though… pic.twitter.com/x4chVdPS7T
The theme of authenticity and integrity permeates discussions, with frequent use of terms like fraud, lie, trust, and fake. Conversations questioning Harris's authenticity often accuse her of adopting policies for political gain rather than genuine conviction—her recent proposal for “no taxes on tips” is a recent example.
Voter skepticism extends to Harris’s communication style, with criticism that she avoids unscripted interactions and press questions. The sentiment here is distrustful, portraying Harris as a political figure lacking in genuine leadership qualities and transparent communication.
Many voters are disillusioned with political tactics and thus unsurprised by the Harris campaign’s advertising tactics. Still, with reporting on the abnormality of the ads, people voice their displeasure at mixing political campaigning with purportedly objective news publications.
Negativity also increased when the Axios reporter who wrote the story posted on X walking back criticisms of the campaign's tactics. This exacerbated distaste among voters who already view mainstream media as biased in favor of Democrats. Some also consider it an ironic implication that Democratic narratives are pushed by media outlets without ad dollars.
Harris camp doing nothing wrong and Google, which is pretty strict about banning spammy ads, doesn’t see it as a consumer harm. News outlets just collateral damage in this weird ads tactic https://t.co/xEAiW3JWNC
Discussions around Harris's policies often intersect with evaluations of her running mate, Tim Walz. Walz has remained in the news cycle for reported “stolen valor” through lies about his military service, combat action, and his rank. Many view this as consistent behavior among politicians.
They conclude questionable Harris campaign tactics foreshadow the deceptive strategies of a potential Harris presidency. This intersection indicates that public perception of Harris is partly influenced by her associations, leading to compounding negative sentiment from shared controversies.
Discussions of Kamala Harris’s ideologies represent 10.5% of overall conversations about her and show lower approval.
Democrats Don’t Care
Conversations also reflect partisan sentiments, with distinct divides between Harris’s support and opposition. For instance, the hashtags and statements from Democratic voters mostly criticize the Republican Party, emphasizing a clash of ideologies. Harris supporters prioritize voting down Republican candidates, framing her as pivotal in defending rights and democracy.
This position is further demonstrated by Harris’s voter base showing no interest in policy, as the campaign continues to operate without a platform and no challenges from traditional, establishment media. Despite this, positive sentiment from Harris’s advocates is outnumbered by the more frequent and vociferous criticisms from her detractors, highlighting a polarized perception.
During Donald Trump’s X space with Elon Musk, the former president said, “I won't mention the name of the company, but they go on strike, and you go, 'You're all gone.’” MIG Reports data shows voters are discussing potential labor strikes in the context of a struggling economy. American workers are growing more worried about the tension between appealing to leaders who are supposed to fight for the "little guy," while also implementing the policies that create poor economic conditions.
Conversations focus on unions, with themes centered around labor rights, economic policies, and the role of unions in advocating for middle-class and working families. Voters are frustrated but hope for reform and stronger support from political leaders.
Union workers express hope that strikes will lead to meaningful change, pushing the government and businesses to implement policies that better support them. There’s a desire for systemic reform, with a focus on long-term solutions. Workers want to address immediate economic stressors, but also broader issues of inequality and social equity.
In recent years, strikes have increased to levels like those in the 1990s, with almost 459,000 in 2023. And while most American voters sympathize with the struggle of union workers to earn a living wage in difficult economic times, they also worry about the cascading impacts of increased strikes.
Despite unions historically being associated with the Democratic Party, some are concerned that political leaders are willing to endure strikes and poor economic conditions for the working class if they can maintain power.
Fear and Worry About Strikes
Many voters fear the potential impacts of labor strikes. The dominant sentiment in these conversations is one of anxiety over how strikes could disrupt critical industries like manufacturing, healthcare, and education. People worry these disruptions could lead to job losses, higher living costs, and economic instability. There is fear that strikes might trigger inflation, increase taxes, and worsen unemployment, especially in an already fragile economic environment.
Many voters are particularly concerned about how strikes may affect their financial security and day-to-day lives. The immediate consequences of strikes could be severe, leading to an economic ripple effect impacting everything from small businesses to national economic stability. This worry is further amplified by a belief that political leaders may not adequately manage the fallout, potentially leaving ordinary workers and families to bear the brunt of the disruption.
Some of these concerns highlight the potential danger of unionizing more of the workforce for political purposes.
The surge in strike activity in 2023 is driven by economic factors rather than ideological motivations. Workers are responding to stagnant wages, eroded benefits, unsafe working conditions, and the pressures of inflation. The discontent is exacerbated by soaring corporate profits and high executive pay.
Strikes are seen historically as a necessary tool for workers to address workforce power imbalances and demand fair treatment. However, despite the economic roots of these actions, some fear powerful elites may attempt to frame or manipulate the narrative around strikes for ideological purposes. This would further complicate public perceptions and debates.
Understanding and Support for Strikes
Despite apprehensions, there is also a strong undercurrent of empathy and support for labor strikes in voter conversations. Many people see unions as essential to defending workers’ rights. They believe strikes are necessary to address ongoing issues like poor working conditions, wage stagnation, and the erosion of labor protections.
Supporters feel, without the pressure exerted by strikes, labor issues would likely remain unaddressed, continuing to harm the middle and working classes. This group emphasizes the importance of unions in advocating for worker interests.
There’s a sense of solidarity among those who support strikes and economic justice. Discussions highlight the need for political leaders to align themselves with social justice causes. Voters increasingly support candidates who champion union rights and criticize those who favor corporate interests over the needs of the working class.
Public sentiment toward Kamala Harris's presidential campaign has become sharply polarized over allegations of using AI-generated images to fake crowd sizes. Conversations reveal distrust and skepticism, across multiple demographic axes, regarding the authenticity of her campaign strategies and her political stances.
Critics say the Harris campaign relies heavily on media manipulation and social media influence, suggesting her support maybe be more manufactured than genuine. TikTok influencers have claimed they were paid to promote the campaign. Other evidence emerged suggesting rally attendees were paid.
There are allegations the mainstream media shelters her from scrutiny by not demanding press conferences or in-depth interviews. This critique extends to her running mate, Tim Walz, who people accuse of using deceptive narratives to obfuscate his true political intentions.
Harris’s approval regarding campaign rallies and fundraising has declined in the last week, slipping from 54% and 53% respectively, to 48% and 46% today.
Campaigns Exchange Accusations
Posts from conservative outlets and individuals are more likely to highlight concerns about astroturfed support and fake images. They use these allegations to demonstrate their belief that the Harris campaign is fundamentally dishonest. Social media accelerates the spread of these views, as even Donald Trump posted about it on Truth Social.
This caused back-and-forth allegations between campaigns as the KamalaHQ X account rebutted Trump’s accusations. The Harris campaign also claimed Trump’s rallies are less packed than Harris’s, causing arguments about the pettiness of these political strategies.
1) This is an actual photo of a 15,000-person crowd for Harris-Walz in Michigan
2) Trump has still not campaigned in a swing state in over a week... Low energy? pic.twitter.com/VgTfoMAcuk
There is still some question about whether it is proven the Harris campaign used doctored images. But as with many issues in partisan politics, many choose the narrative and perspective they prefer, without legitimizing any of the opposition’s claims to evidence. While there is significant ire directed at the Harris campaign for being “fake” and “phony,” some on the right still argue it’s an unproductive controversy.
It damages Trump's campaign to claim something is AI when it clearly isn’t. Call me a sellout if you want, but I don't want Trump to lose over this trivial narrative about crowd sizes. He’s surrounded by bad advisors who are pushing this nonsense. We should be focusing on…
— Vivek Ganapathy Ramaswamy (parody) (@VivekRammaswamy) August 11, 2024
General Disbelief in Harris’s Authenticity
Claims about inauthenticity from Harris campaign communications extends to how Americans view her as a politician. Many criticize her communication style and public visibility, saying she relies heavily on scripts and canned remarks to mask her lack of knowledge. People accuse her of being disingenuous and phony, further cementing perceptions that she is not a competent politician.
Harris supporters downplay allegations of faked images and inauthenticity. They instead focus on the "joy" and “vibes” of the campaign, praising her as a refreshing alternative to Trump. They claim to support her policies, though many cannot articulate what those policies are. These voters often frame criticisms as partisan attacks, saying opposing Trump takes precedence over accusations about campaign tactics.
“Why are ya’ll voting for Kamala Harris?”
“I want to keep access to my bank accounts. I would like to keep making money, I don’t want to be some man’s object I really don’t. The whole thing with Project 2025 is terrifying.” pic.twitter.com/Lkb6XJLHp9
Supporters insist the enthusiasm and turnout for Harris are genuine. These proponents highlight the presence of witnesses, journalists, and photographers at her events as evidence. They call accusations a desperate tactic by opponents to undermine Harris’s rising popularity, claiming fear and defensiveness from Republicans.
Demographic Reactions
The demographic breakdown further complicates Harris’s image. Older voters tend to be more critical of her, emphasizing fears about her socialist tendencies and lack of transparency. They invoke instances of Harris “flip-flopping” on issues, saying she merely seeks to garner favor. For these voters, use of AI-altered images is indicative of a broader pattern of manipulation and dishonesty.
Younger voters are more split. Some prefer to praise Harris’s progressive policies but are also wary of the integrity issues these allegations present. Many younger voters raise questions about digital ethics and authenticity. These topics resonate strongly with a generation attuned to digital literacy, media manipulation, and the implications of technology on politics.
Gender also plays a role in shaping perceptions. Female voters, especially those identifying as feminists, often support Harris for her symbolic significance as a potential female president. Yet, they are not immune to concerns about the campaign's authenticity. Many female voters express a desire for a transparent and honest campaign, fearing any proven deceit undermines broader efforts for gender equality in leadership.
Online conversations suggest the issue of child trafficking is becoming politicized with partisan disagreements about Biden-Harris open borders policies. Voters express disgust at what is occurring at the border, viewing a leadership change as increasingly necessary. In states like Arizona, Republican Senate candidate Kari Lake is voicing urgent voter concerns about cartel activity and drug and child trafficking in a way that Democrats are not. This is gaining her approval among increasingly concerned Americans.
Kari Lake, Change Candidate
Kari Lake is a Republican running for Kyrsten Sinema’s Senate seat in Arizona. She is often mentioned in conversations about the border and child trafficking as someone who sincerely cares. Voter sentiment is overwhelmingly positive toward Lake on these issues as frustration with Democrats mounts.
Lake regularly speaks out about border issues voters prioritize, while her opponent, Ruben Gallego, is deafeningly silent.
.@KariLake: “The biggest Human Smuggling, Drug Trafficking, Child Trafficking operation is underway here in Arizona...
Voters believe in her commitment to implementing stronger border security measures that will protect children and combat cartel trafficking. Conversations mention her with phrases like “close the borders to prevent more human trafficking” and “protect children from all forms of abuse.” Voters in Arizona and nationwide support candidates like Kari Lake who promise stringent reforms.
Lake, who is known as a fighter who does not back down, uses this to her advantage on cartel and trafficking issues. People view her as dedicated, willing to fight, and genuinely caring. Public sentiment toward Lake's border efforts is overwhelmingly positive.
There is a strong belief that she prioritizes eradicating child trafficking, unlike her Democratic counterparts. Many convey appreciation for her vocal stance and proposed policies aimed at tackling this issue directly.
The narrative around Lake is one of hope and support, portraying her as a figure willing to take robust action where others have faltered. Discussions about Lake reveal optimism, portraying her as a proactive leader capable of implementing strong border policies Democrats are unwilling to enact.
Outrage and Urgency
Outrage dominates discussions about the Biden-Harris administration's border policies, particularly regarding negligence and dismissal of child trafficking. Voters regularly talk of “open borders,” voicing frustration with the administration’s unwillingness to enforce border security measures.
Americans accuse the administration of exacerbating drug trafficking, human trafficking—specifically child trafficking—by ignoring border laws. Sentiment is overwhelmingly negative, with criticism directed at Joe Biden and Kamala Harris in her role as "border czar."
Accusations of incompetence and failure dominate conversations. People link Democrat failures to rises in crime, drug-related deaths, and unchecked border crossings. Sen. Chuck Grassley is drafting a Congressional Review Act to block the Biden-Harris administration from further enabling dangerous trafficking practices.
The connection between drug and human trafficking is another major concern. Voters express alarm and urgency about fentanyl and trafficking children streaming across the border via Mexican cartels.
An increasingly dangerous fentanyl supply in the U.S. generates fear across political lines as more Americans are impacted by drug addiction, overdose, and death. Many also attribute increased drug trafficking to lax border policies.
Rampant trafficking amplifies critiques of the Biden-Harris approach to border security. Voters demand more stringent actions to combat both drug and human trafficking.
DOJ sued HHS contractor Southwest Key 4 repeatedly turning blind eye 2 employee sex abuse of migrant children HHS’ UC Program Rule adds 2 the problem by weakening employee vetting / HHS even tried 2 block SW Key frm answering my oversight requests Congress must seek reforms
Discussions reveal a broader theme of political responsibility and blame, with voters divided along partisan lines. Terms like "Democrat policies," "Republican solutions," and NGOs frequently appear. Politics divides many opinions on how best to address border issues and trafficking.
Partisan debate intensifies the emotional engagement and urgency in public discourse. Voters say they feel betrayed by the Biden-Harris administration's failures. Further complicating this issue is the involvement of non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Accusations emerge of taxpayer-funded groups enabling Democratic border policies voters are starting to abhor.
EXCLUSIVE: I spent four months investigating the web of NGOs facilitating the Biden Administration's migrant crisis. These taxpayer-funded groups are pulling in billions of dollars and lavishing themselves with salaries and bonuses.
Some discuss the broader socio-economic impacts of immigration policies like inflation and resource scarcity, adding to their frustration. This deepens negative sentiment toward VP Harris, whose role as the Border Czar places responsibility at her feet. A lack of evidence that she took any action and financial support for NGOs from the Biden-Harris administration, will likely worsen sentiment.
Recently, a story went viral about democratic vice-presidential nominee Tim Walz participating in an "Abolish ICE" march. This has caused discussion about his political stance on immigration issues. Overall sentiment online is negative, reflecting deep concerns about Walz’s views on the border crisis.
The march, which occurred on June 30, 2018, was during the peak of the “Abolish ICE” movement. This suggests Walz may be influenced by the popular sentiments of leftist ideology.
Voters Want a Strong Border
Voter discussions consistently highlight Tim Walz’s beliefs, policies, and actions regarding immigration. People frequently use terms like open borders, sanctuary cities, illegal immigrants, and driver’s licenses for illegals in conversation about Walz. There is great apprehension about his support for providing state benefits to illegal immigrants at the expanse of citizens.
Most Americans view the Biden-Harris administration's open border policies as a threat to national security, prioritizing illegal immigrants over American citizens. This criticism extends to Walz who is increasingly viewed as supporting open borders.
Voters reference Walz’s comments about "ladder factories" to facilitate illegal crossings. People view his controversial comment about investing in ladders to circumvent a border wall as representative of his overall border stance.
Another critical conversation touches on the economic and social impact of Walz’s policies. Voters argue his approach drains state resources by using taxpayer funds for illegal immigrants while American citizens are crushed by inflation and taxes. Negative sentiment is often amplified by claims that his policies promote lawlessness and compromise public safety.
Americans view Walz’s record as governor, particularly his actions during the 2020 George Floyd protests, as evidence of his radically leftist stance. They speculate that actions like attending and Abolish ICE march reveals his inclination to be swayed by popular, radical leftist movements.
Critics claim Walz’s hesitation to deploy the National Guard in Minnesota allowed and escalated protester violence and destruction. This is further used to question his capability to handle a national immigration crisis as vice president.
Tim Walz: Not That Guy
Public sentiment toward Tim Walz as a potential vice president, particularly regarding his ability to manage the illegal immigration crisis, is overwhelmingly skeptical, if not outright hostile. Critics say his policies and actions epitomize the radical direction they believe the Democratic Party is taking. This narrative is bolstered by consistent claims that his policies favor illegal immigrants at the expense of national security, economic stability, and public safety.
There is a strong emphasis on the ideological divide Walz represents within the Democratic Party. Many discussions label him as a “radical leftist” or a “socialist,” accusing him of promoting extreme policies that alienate moderate voters.
Depiction of Walz as a radical are often paired with concerns about his proximity to far-left figures and policies who undermine traditional American values and governance. Sentiment trends indicate voters share negative opinions, painting Walz as unfit to handle national issues due to radicalism and past governance failures.
Viral tweets about parents who are unable to afford back-to-school supplies sparks conversations about economic issues, household finances, and school costs. MIG Reports shows parents are agitated and discussions are charged with political overtones in scrutinizing economic policies and their impacts.
34% of parents said they plan to take on debt to afford back to school supplies this year, and 16% said they plan to take on up to $1,000 in debt, per Credit Karma.
These discussions come within larger debates and worries about inflation, household expenses, debt, and the results of political policies. Younger voters are especially worried about their financial prospects.
The inability to afford back-to-school shopping is especially true for young parents – 39% of Gen Z and 37% of millennials.
Voters continue to compare the Trump’s economy with the Biden-Harris economy. Discussions juxtapose memories of low inflation, cheap gas, and secure borders during Trump's presidency against complaints of high inflation, unaffordable gas prices, and open borders under Democrats. This matches recent trends blaming Joe Bide and Kamala Harris for two key policies:
Open borders and unchecked migration harming American families
Voter engagement on economic topics confirms existing political schisms in sentiment. In general, Americans are dissatisfied with the economy, but causes and solutions are often determined by political beliefs. Nostalgia for past times is acute in conversations about living costs and financial insecurity for middle-class and working families.
Low Income, Low Expectations
People are talking about the financial burden placed on low-income families who cannot afford back-to-school expenses. Americans worry about the rising cost of essential items and the consequences for families already struggling to make ends meet.
Government allocation of resources being disproportionately directed toward illegal immigrants is a point of contention. U.S. citizens say welfare programs offer free housing, healthcare, and monthly stipends to people who should not even be in the country. This causes resentment as local communities continue to sink deeper into debt.
Voters blame to government saying things like, "Americans they put into tents with their policies suffer.” Many feel the Biden-Harris administration cares more about people who enter the country illegally than its own citizens.
Parents describe their struggles, lamenting the unaffordability of necessities like backpacks and school clothes. These expenses force many families into credit card debt just to buy school supplies. Sentiment in these discussions is predominantly negative, reflecting frustration and financial strain.
National Retail Federation data shows back-to-school costs for American families have increased from just under $700 in 2019 to nearly $900 in 2024.
Recently, police commissioner of London Sir Mark Rowley declared that social media users outside the United Kingdom may be extradited for terrorism-related charges. This announcement came in reaction to Americans observing English protests over forced mass immigration and intervening to overburden police resources.
England Police say they will extradite and imprison Americans over social media posts pic.twitter.com/VB6sIyWWnE
Americans perceived injustice on the part of the British government toward U.K. citizens who are demonized and arrested for protesting mass immigration. Reports of British citizens being arrested for their online speech was particularly offensive to Americans who value free speech. This caused Americans to troll police departments by spamming fake crime reports on police chat systems.
Americans on /pol/ discover that you can speak live to police officers in the UK to report crime pic.twitter.com/4q8nYbS2Oz
Online responses to the potential repercussions for American social media users are mixed.
Americans Fear Losing Free Speech
Sentiment trends among Americans are noticeably negative, reflecting deep concerns and frustrations. The tone of the conversations is defensive, as people assert their rights against government threats. This defensiveness sometimes adds a mixture of confusion and fear about what the future may hold if America loses its right to free speech.
Public sentiment largely views foreign governments pursuing Americans over speech as an overextension of legal authority and a threat to the constitutional freedoms American citizens hold dear.
Concerns are growing that situations like the one in Britain reflect global trends toward government control and authoritarian crackdowns. Some also worry about freedom at home, referring to the events and prosecutions following January 6.
Americans engaging in these discussions are fearful their social media postings could subject them to severe legal repercussions. They draw unsettling parallels between U.K. citizens being arrested for speech and January 6 protesters who faced severe legal consequences.
Sentiment about resisting increased threats to free expression reveals disillusionment. Many people feel powerless at the hands of governments that are rapidly encroaching on constitutional liberties. This sense of unease is heightened by concerns about increased surveillance, censorship, and punitive measures for political dissent.
The top conversations around freedom of expression include:
Law Enforcement Overreach: Many are in disbelief and angry that U.K. police would try to extradite and imprison Americans over online speech. They view it as unacceptable and an overreach of British legal power.
Free Speech Rights: Americans see the potential for extraditions as a direct threat to constitutional liberties. There is extensive debate about the need to retain these rights against authoritarian regimes.
Comparisons to January 6: Discussions frequently draw comparisons between U.K. immigration protests and crackdowns following January 6. Many view these events as politicized government action against dissenters.
Surveillance Concerns: There are worries about surveillance and governments gathering social media. People are anxious that governments are continuously monitoring citizens more closely and doling out punishments.
International Jurisdiction: Americans question the legal justifications and sovereignty issues involved in international jurisdiction over speech. People are unsure about the legitimacy and enforceability of such actions.
Recently, the online and print publication The Economist, went viral for its controversial coverage of protests in the U.K. A controversial article titled, "How to respond to the riots in Britain," called to “punish the thugs” and “stand up for immigration.”
This, to many in America and the U.K., is emblematic of typical mainstream media responses to national protests against unchecked immigration. Recent U.K. protests over the murder of three English girls roiled citizens about immigration in the U.K., eliciting these headlines from The Economist.
Along with placing blame on U.K. nationals, there are rumors of The Economist allegedly removing the Palestinian flag from a photo in one of their stories to downplay pro-Palestine involvement in riots. This fuels discourse criticizing the media, especially drawing backlash from Americans. People express mounting concerns over fake news, media bias, and free speech issues.
The Economist seems to have a problem with the Palestinian flag being displayed on its cover. pic.twitter.com/GWi0O0i955
Online conversations show public discontent and extreme distrust of media outlets. Americans, who are sensitive about free speech, accuse the U.K. government of silencing and punishing its citizens for speaking up about immigration. They view leaders as protecting antagonistic immigrants over native citizens. Incidents like this amplify existing anxieties about the integrity and objectivity of press coverage.
In the Total State the native population is criminal, the immigrant is sacred, and the narrative of the managerial elite is truth https://t.co/mC186MiScO
Online sentiment toward The Economist and the media is predominantly negative. People voice frustration and skepticism at media outlets they view as actively obscuring the truth or manipulating public perception.
This distrust is not confined to any single demographic but spans various groups. Moderates and undecided voters in America, who consume various media sources, are particularly affected. They express discomfort over the evident lack of transparency and the potential influence of media bias on public opinion and policy.
Skepticism toward the media connects with broader themes of political disenfranchisement and systemic corruption. People draw parallels between what they view as The Economist's disingenuous immigration coverage and wider distrust of government and institutional transparency.
There is heightened sensitivity toward perceived double standards and selective news coverage. Americans view both the U.S. government and the U.K. government as "two-tiered justice systems," aided by the mainstream media in playing political favoritism.
Anti-establishment feelings are widespread, fostering a climate of resistance to media narratives and opinions forced on the public by institutions. The skepticism extends to broader concerns, such as electoral integrity and the credibility of news about prominent political figures, further polarizing public opinion.
Trending discussions about Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, recently chosen as Kamala Harris's vice-presidential running mate, question his trustworthiness and integrity. Renewed allegations of “stolen valor” against Walz by dishonestly embellishing his military service are flooding social media and news outlets.
Critics expose Walz lied about his military record, reporting he retired from the National Guard just before his unit's deployment to Iraq in 2005. This raises questions about his commitment and honor. These accusations are particularly resonant among veterans and military families, who view such actions as deeply dishonorable.
🚨 Congressman Tim Walz literally voted TO PASS the Stolen Valor Act of 2013, which he is in DIRECT violation of.
Can’t make this stuff up.
He knew exactly what he’s doing, but thought he was immune.
Walz also liked when advocating to restrict certain firearms, perhaps to ally himself with the Ban Assault Weapons vote. Walz strongly implied he carried “weapons of war” despite never being deployed to a combat zone.
Tim Walz falsely claimed he carried weapons ‘in war’ in resurfaced clip: ‘Absolutely false’
Walz also used this nonexistent war experience to say it qualifies him to ban civilian weapons he classifies as weapons of war. https://t.co/ULLphFktt8
These stolen valor allegations have had significant impact on support for Walz, driving down voter sentiment.
Tarnishing His Character
The narrative around Walz also includes concerns about his character and personal responsibility. Reports are also surfacing of an alleged DUI incident in 1995 where he was reportedly driving at excessive speeds. This incident further fuels perceptions of Walz as someone who lacks the integrity and judgment expected of a national leader.
Court documents state that Walz, who was 28 years old and working as a high school teacher and football coach at the time, was caught speeding over 80 mph. He failed a breath test, registering a blood-alcohol level of .128. At that time, the legal limit in many parts of the country, including Nebraska, was .1, though it has since been lowered to .08.
Discussions consistently highlight a lack of respect for Walz and questions about his honesty. Voters call him "deceptive," and "untrustworthy" frequently underscoring their doubts about his character. This distrust seems to undermine his appeal to voters, with some suggesting he withdraw from the VP candidacy.
Media Deflection Aggravates Voter Disillusionment
While much of the voter discussion online is negative, media outlets seem to be attempting to defend Walz. On Aug. 9, Google results for “stolen valor” prominently highlighted J.D. Vance news, with most headlines framing the allegations as an attack against Walz by Vance.
This exacerbates voter ire which already exists against the media and Big Tech companies. Americans accuse the media of carrying water for Democrats, memory-holing Kamala Harris’s poor track record and now running cover for Walz.
Especially on the right, voters find the media reaction particularly egregious with emerging video of Walz’s staffers being confronted by combat veterans in 2009 over stolen valor claims. The fact that stolen valor is also a crime punishable with prison time also angers voters who view Walz as getting a pass from Democrats and the media.
Sentiment in discussions about Walz lean heavily negative, especially among conservatives and veterans who feel betrayed. Moderates and undecided voters also scrutinize Walz, voicing similarly skeptical and critical sentiments. This group is also influenced by fears of Walz’s economic mismanagement, lenience on crime, and extreme social policies. Many voters worry his policies are too far left, resonating negatively with his past statements.
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