Since Governor Gavin Newsom enacted a $20-per-hour mandate for fast food employees in April, California has lost 10,000 jobs and numerous franchises closed locations. MIG Reports analysis show distinct disapproval from Californians in their discussion of Newsom.
In 2024, Gavin Newsom’s approval on the economy is trending downward, currently at 35%, which is 7 points below his six-month average of 42%.
Economic Issues
Public sentiment is highly negative about the wage mandate's impact on fast-food jobs in California, blaming Governor Newsom's policies.
Californians are discussing their desire for lower taxes as the current tax rates as detrimental to businesses and leading to job losses like the 10,000 fast-food employees.
Newsom is perceived as ineffective in managing the state's economy and addressing the needs of lower-income families, leading to feelings of disenfranchisement.
Concerns include increasing crime rates, high costs of living, and more people leaving the state. These make it difficult for many to afford essentials like fuel, food, utilities, and medication.
Fiscal Policy
Governor Newsom’s name is mentioned frequently and mostly negatively. Most Californians criticize him for how he handles the state's budget and transforming a surplus into a deficit.
Some voters interpret California's large budget deficit as contributing to the loss of 10,000 fast food employees. There isn't a specific emphasis on the wage mandate, but complaints are often tied back to overall economic mismanagement.
Many California residents complain about the cost of living, prices for gas and food, and a decrease in their savings. They directly point to the governor's policies as a reason for these changes.
Overall, Californians seem to distrust Governor Newsom, which seems largely due to his financial decisions. People are voicing their frustrations about the state's budget deficit and the perceived negative impact of Newsom's economic policies on their personal finances.
Sentiment about the overall economic health of the state is negative. Voters express concerns over job loss, increased living costs, and overall poor management of California's economy.
There is also a sense of exasperation, as people feel their concerns and hardships are not being addressed. They urge Newsom to "sit down” and get in touch with the people.
People are frustrated and dissatisfied with Newsom's leadership and many call for fresh leaders who can manage the economy better.
Reparations, which refer to compensating descendants of African slaves in America for the economic disparities black Americans suffered, are a growing topic of political and social discourse in the United States. However, opinions on this matter vary broadly among various demographics and political affiliations, causing various proposals for reparations to elicit mixed reactions.
National sentiment toward racial reparations hovers in the low 40% range, suggesting it has not become a widely popular issue.
In general, Democrats have a more negative sentiment on racial issues than Republicans, suggesting they may see more of a need for something like reparations.
Supporters and Detractors of Reparations
Many African American voters view reparations as a necessary act of justice and financial redress that should address hundreds of years of institutionalized slavery, racial discrimination and inequality. Advocates argue economic compensation would be an effective way of remedying the racial wealth gap. They also believe it would be a required step to achieving racial justice. They contend slavery helped build the wealth of the nation on the backs of the enslaved, and the benefits of that economy have lingered into the 21st century.
However, not all Americans support reparations — particularly conservatives and Republicans who consider it part of woke ideology. Those in opposition to racial reparations argue slavery was a historical event that current generations bear no responsibility for. Many express fears about the potential economic costs and social implications of racially motivated and imposed payments. They raise concerns about the practicality of determining who would qualify for reparations, and how a program might be administered.
Reparations critics also worry about the economic feasibility of such a large and coercive transfer of wealth. They fear they could lead to increased taxes or government debt, without effectively or fairly solving problems for economic classes or races.
Others argue reparations could potentially increase racial tension and divisiveness. These critics, spanning the spectrum of political ideologies, often promote targeted policies aimed at improving education, housing, and job opportunities for minority communities rather than directly compensating individuals for past injustices.
Political and Generational Divides
The dividing lines of how Americans view reparations seem to be largely political and perhaps generational. The Democratic party has generally been more supportive of reparations, with some democratic presidential candidates in 2020 urging studies on the issue. Conversely, Republicans have been broadly opposed to reparations, with several key figures arguing they would be costly, divisive, and unfair.
The progressive left are the strongest advocates for reparations and say they are necessary to confront the country’s history of racial injustice. More centrist Democrats focus on broad social programs aimed at reducing economic inequality, rather than reparations specifically for black Americans.
Younger people like Gen Z are also more open to the idea of reparations than older generations. One study indicated less than one-third of white adults of any age support reparations, compared to about three-quarters of black adults. While Democrats have been more receptive to reparations, polls show that the party is divided along racial and generational lines.
A significant proportion of African American voters support reparations, viewing it as necessary for achieving racial justice. Other minority groups have also expressed support, drawing parallels between their experiences and the historical injustices faced by African Americans. However, white voters are generally less supportive of reparations.
Ideological Drivers
There is a portion of black conservative voters who do not support reparations, as well as white liberals who do. This suggests support for or opposition to reparations is not wholly racial in nature, but largely ideological.
Talk about reparations often goes beyond the question of financial compensation and ventures into addressing systemic racism, wealth disparity, educational opportunity gaps, and other forms of inequality that persist in modern America.
Those who believe in equity and systemic racism are more likely to support the idea of reparations. Those who believe in meritocratic achievement, personal responsibility, and free market capitalism are less likely to support reparations.
America’s reaction to European elections reveals a politically and ideologically polarized discourse. This is especially true for right-leaning Americans and their response toward left-leaning opponents. There is a strong anti-leftist or anti-communist milieu, referring to the left as a threat to western governance and associating it with socialism and communism.
Americans are increasingly expressing anti-woke sentiment, attributing alleged election losses in Europe to “woke liberalism.” Wokeness is portrayed as a harmful force that is destroying countries and weakening societies. Some are also critical of the invocation of political correctness in comedy, seeing it as an infringement on artistic freedom.
The topic of free speech is a major trend in these discussions. Many emphasize the importance of free speech, yet there's a discernible disagreement about where boundaries are. Discussions of boundaries are mostly brought up by those with leftist positions since they view censorship as necessary in more circumstances than fervent free speech supporters.
Questions of free speech limitations are also brought up in reference to viral videos of German youth who support the AfD (Alternate for Germany, a right-wing populist party) recreating a nightclub song with the words, “Ausländer raus, Deutschland den Deutschen,” which mean, “Foreigners out, Germany for Germans.”
Anti-globalist sentiments also emerge in these discussions, with many accusing leftist globalists of funding propaganda and divisive rhetoric. Some people tie this to broader conspiracies involving George Soros and other alleged puppeteers of globalist disruptions.
Furthermore, there are numerous references to immigration debates, with some claiming mainstream media in the West is hiding the negative consequences of immigration. This is tied into broader concerns about Islam's influence in the West, with some viewing it as contrary to Western and liberal societal norms.
Sentiment Trends
Negativity To Biden: Conversations largely display a negative sentiment toward President Biden, reflecting dissatisfaction with his term so far. The significant points of criticism include how he is handling the border crisis, his actions or perceived inactions, and his policies.
Anti-Establishment: There is also a pronounced displeasure with the establishment in general, encompassing both parties. Americans express a desire for new leadership beyond the traditional dichotomy of the Democrats and Republicans.
Sentiment To Trump: Feelings toward Trump remain polarized, with some expressing enduring support for him and others criticizing and pointing to his alleged felonies and impeachment.
Sentiment Toward Voting: Conversations reveal a mixture of commitment to vote, a desire for change, and skepticism toward current available options.
Immigration
In light of European politics, American discussions show a pro-Trump sentiment. Many support his rhetoric on immigration policy, particularly his promise for a more stringent stance on illegal immigration. This perspective dovetails with the trend of European governments leaning further to the right in their political ideology and desiring stricter immigration controls.
There are many comments, "Great to see people all over the world voting for freedom and their own nation and a controlled border! Trump is the next 1 to win," and "Want the illegals gone - VOTE TRUMP!" This discourse reveals a positive sentiment toward Trump's policies and leadership and a desire to prevent Europe's immigration struggles from repeating in the U.S. These trends show a strong approval for stricter borders and the preference for national interests.
Much of the discussions centered around deportation policies, with many Americans supporting strong borders and deporting illegal immigrants. This sentiment is captured in comments like, "Stand with Trump we have a country to save. 🚨 JUST IN — CBS POLL: Over 60% of voters support Donald Trump's plan to deport ALL illegal aliens," and "Finish the wall and deport them to the Mexico side of it." Overall, there is a vocal desire for stronger national security and concern over the perceived economic and societal impacts of illegal immigration.
Former President Donald Trump’s rally in Las Vegas generated much buzz and social media discussion, including a 2-point increase in his lead against Joe Biden for the presidential election. MIG Reports analysis of voter reactions to the rally indicates a positive view of Trump’s appeal.
Discussion Trends
Many Americans are talking about the perceived faults of the Biden administration with hashtags like #BidenBorderCrisis, #BidenDementia, #Bidenomics, #bidenflation. They also voice criticism of Democrats more generally. Voters express a desire for Trump to provide solutions to these issues they view as caused by President Biden.
Title IX and girls' sports is also a trending topic. Following Trump's comments about women's sports at the rally, supporters are echoing his sentiment. They agree with the assertion that men should not participate in women's sports events.
Another notable discussion trend involves statements from Democratic Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC). Some on her side fear she could be jailed if Trump wins another term. These suggestions have led to a negative response from Trump supporters who view many AOC comments as overblown or who hold critical views of AOC herself.
Sentiment Trends
Voter sentiment toward Trump’s Las Vegas rally is largely positive toward the presumptive GOP nominee. Supporters express admiration for him, describing him as a "fighter," a "proven winner,” and a "leader." Negatively charged language mostly used against figures in the Democratic party such as Biden or Ocasio-Cortez.
Negative sentiment focuses on important problems in America for voters like the border crisis, economic worries, and alleged freedom of speech issues – all of which were discussed during Trump's rally.
Other points of discussion include:
Biden Administration Criticisms
Negative sentiment toward Biden and Harris, particularly criticizing the action of their administration.
The country's current state, Trump’s potential nickname for Biden, “Crooked Joe,” the legitimacy of Biden’s election win, and comparisons between Trump and Biden’s leadership.
There is significant criticism towards Biden himself, focusing on his cognitive abilities, election legitimacy, and leadership performance. People use terms like "criminal" and "liar" when speaking about him.
Kamala Harris also faces heavy criticism, with many attributing the administration's perceived failures to both her and Biden.
Some Independents say they prefer Trump over Biden, despite not being strong Trump supporters.
Trump Supporter Reactions
Voters express unity and strength with phrases like "MAGA STRONG" and appreciate the rally despite challenges like high temperatures.
Negative online comments label Trump supporters as "gullible" and "duped" and refer to Trump as a "convict.” However, there is also a prevalent view that criticism of Trump was a coordinated effort by major liberal accounts.
The most discussed subject from the rally was Trump's support for Nevada senate candidate Sam Brown, highlighted by his post on Truth Social.
Positive sentiments were not just about support but also resistance against criticism and political targeting.
Economic Issues
Many people are enthusiastic about Trump's pledge to eliminate taxes on tips, significant for service-industry-heavy cities like Las Vegas. Some voters are making comparisons between Trump's tax policies and those of other leaders like Reagan.
Republicans and conservatives especially voice excitement about lower taxes under a second Trump administration.
There is also negative sentiment targeted at the media, with accusations of the Vegas television media suppressing coverage of Trump's tax pledges.
Voter reactions to Steve Bannon being ordered to jail are divided but with severe negativity, much like opinions on Donald Trump's conviction. The rhetoric varies sharply, with a considerable number viewing the order as a red flag for the state of democracy in the U.S., while others believe it's necessary for the government to maintain its authority.
Discussion Trends
Critics of Jailing Bannon
Critics of the order to jail Bannon view it as political persecution. They believe Bannon is a pawn in a political game orchestrated by the Biden administration.
Comments accuse Biden's administration of using power to silence and jail political opponents. They equate these actions to tactics used by dictators and communist regimes.
Critics see Bannon's indictment as a threat to governance and an attack on free speech. Common phrases include "deep state," "lawfare," and "banana republic," indicating distrust in institutional justice.
There is a trend of linking this situation to broader conservative grievances. These grievances include perceived infringements on First Amendment and Second Amendment rights.
Those Cheering the Order
Some view Bannon's indictment as a step towards accountability and upholding the rule of law. This narrative portrays Bannon as challenging institutional authority and jeopardizing democratic norms.
These views are less visible compared to the critics of the actions taken against Bannon.
Rule of Law
A recurring topic within these discussions is the perceived decline of the rule of law in America. While both sides invoke this term, they interpret and apply it differently based on partisan perspectives. Some believe Bannon's punishment upholds the rule of law because he broke the law and must face the consequences just like any citizen.
However, others feel the rule of law is being undermined, contending that Bannon's case is an instance of political persecution rather than a lawful procedure.
There is disparate sentiment depending on a person’s political orientation. However, across the board, there is a shared concern for the health of American democracy and the country's justice system, though opinions on the current state of these institutions vary sharply.
Demographics play a significant role in the polarized viewpoints, with partisan affiliations primarily driving the discourse. Ideological differences aside, there appear to be shared anxieties about the rule of law, democracy, and the use of power in politics—themes that resonate with Americans of all political stripes.
MIG Reports performed analysis of social media commentary regarding Americans’ desire or acceptance of mass deportation. Data suggests a general negativity towards the current administration’s border security and related immigration issues. Meanwhile, former president Donald Trump maintains a steady lead over Joe Biden on all border issues.
Discussion Trends
Border Security
Border security continues to be one of the highest volume discussion topics online, suggesting high engagement with this issue. This demonstrates its importance to American voters.
Currently, most Americans are extremely negative about mass migration and the presence of illegal immigrants in the country.
There is significant talk of deportation, closing the border, and increasing crime associated with migrants.
There are some concerns about the feasibility and practicality of mass deportation, but less disapproval of the idea of reducing illegal immigrants in general.
Several hot-button topics repeatedly come up in voter conversations online. Many believe mass migration is negatively impacting quality of life in America. Voters also dislike how government authorities are currently handling illegal immigration.
There are also recurring accusations of "open borders” which are allowed by the Biden administration. There’s also a strong emphasis on the association of increased crime with immigration, including cartel activities.
Immigration Issues
Discussions and sentiment on immigration issues reveal a variety of opinions about border control policies. There is significant discussion about constructing a border wall, with differing levels of support, skepticism, and criticism.
A lot of discussion about immigration issues is more technical and includes talk about executive steps the Biden administration has taken.
The discussions still touch on border security, which likely explains why border security discussion volume is higher.
Most voters advocate for stricter immigration control, with many supporting former President Trump's border policies and calling for a border shutdown.
There is some opposition to stronger measures or a wall due to affordability, practicality, and potential human rights issues.
Some people note the need for more border patrol staff or other security measures in addition to a physical barrier.
Sentiment Trends
Feelings about the border are overwhelmingly negative. Some voters voice hostility towards politicians, government decisions, and migrants. Many blame illegal immigrants for increased crime, economic stress, or demographic changes. However, a few comments question the practicality of mass deportations—but without wholly opposing it.
Analysis of online discourse clearly shows the topic of border security as a bigger conversation than general immigration issues. Despite higher volume, however, border security also gains lower sentiment, suggesting voters are extremely negative about the U.S. border. It is also clear voters prefer Donald Trump to Joe Biden on both border security and immigration issues.
On the 80th Anniversary of D-Day, illegal aliens organized a protest in New York City, blocked traffic and demanded Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) be abolished. MIG Reports analysis of American reactions shows unified disapproval.
The dominant sentiment Americans express is one of concern about uncontrolled illegal immigration. There are many comments highlighting issues of human trafficking and drug cartels. There is criticism of both Republican and Democrat politicians. Voters blame various representatives for damaging immigration policies, whether through inaction or misguided action.
The online conversation often includes derogatory and offensive remarks towards some politicians, demonstrating a high level of emotional intensity and strong political polarization on the border.
For instance, comments directed at politicians like Lauren Boebert and Ilhan Omar ranged from personal attacks to demands for expulsion or deportation. This hostility signals a high degree of controversy and animosity on the U.S. border crisis.
There is also a lot of mocking in online conversations as voters accuse certain representatives of hypocrisy or lack of effectiveness. The sentiment towards open borders is highly negative, with many expressing concerns about national security and maintaining the rule of law.
It seems most unhappy rhetoric comes from conservative-leaning individuals. They consistently express negative sentiment toward the border as a political issue, mentioning crime, border security, and national sovereignty. However, most Americans seem to have some anger or mockery and generally don't support the current border situation. This suggest that additional demographic groups share overall disapproval on border issues, but with different perspectives and emphasis than conservatives.
Recently, Infowars owner Alex Jones took steps to liquidate his assets to pay legal damages. These costs were money he owes victims of the 2012 Sandy Hook school massacre. The original court-ordered payment totaled approximately $1.5 billion.
Online reactions to possibility of Alex Jones being forced to sell Infowars are contentions, dividing people along political lines. The debate largely revolves around certain keywords and phrases like the "deep state,” "globalism,” “freedom of speech,” “the Biden administration,” and “MAGA.”
Deep State
Sentiment toward the deep state is predominantly negative and critical of:
The deep state is often blamed for negative events. People believe the deep state is a clandestine network within the government manipulating national affairs.
Media and politicians burying the Hunter Biden laptop story during the 2020 election is frequently cited as evidence of deep state action.
People express worry over perceived threats to free speech by the deep state. This is frequently mentioned in refences to Alex Jones and Infowars.
Infowars viewers suggest Jones being forced to sell his platform could be a coordinated attack by the deep state.
There is strong support for the MAGA movement, indicating a large conservative presence within these discussions.
A main theme in discussions is an “us versus them” attitude, suggesting strong distrust and suspicion towards government institutions and mainstream media.
Discussion and Sentiment Analysis
As people discuss the situation with Alex Jones and the potential loss of Infowars, there are several discussion and sentiment trends:
There is a pervasive sense of dissatisfaction and anger among Jones supporters.
Many people frequently use terms like "uniparty," highlighting a distrust in both political parties which people view as colluding against conservative interests.
There is specific dissatisfaction with Republican representatives for failing to uphold conservative values.
People are calling for action from figures like Rep. Marjorie Tayler-Greene and Speaker Mike Johnson, albeit with skepticism about their effectiveness.
Many conversations mention people like Steve Bannon, indicating a link between personal grievances and larger political events.
There is a desire for grassroots mobilization and resistance, with MAGA supporters viewed as a counterforce to perceived political wrongdoings.
Despite an overall negative sentiment, are also optimistic calls for concrete action to address perceived injustices against Jones, Bannon, Trump, and other conservative figures. Among the dissatisfaction and disillusionment, there's a hint of rallying and a call for tangible action.
The newest Star Wars franchise release called “The Acolyte” premiered to resounding love and admiration from those promoting the film. However, there was also dismissal and sharp disapproval from the viewing audience.
MIG Reports analysis of conversations about the show reveals negative sentiments, primarily about wokeness in contemporary culture. There is evident discontent and outrage among many American on this topic. They express disappointment with changes to traditional stories, claiming they have been altered to suit a woke agenda.
Most people associate wokeness with political correctness, social justice efforts, DEI, or liberal ideology. There are calls to boycott Disney and streaming platforms, or simply refusing to watch the series in objection to forced inclusiveness and diversity.
Several media outlets gave the series high scores, reviews, and other accolades. But most consumers and Star Wars fans imposed precipitously low ratings and reviews on the show.
A lot of viewers are also rekindling criticism of The Acolyte’s protagonist Amandla Stenberg, who made controversial remarks in 2018. At the time, she said, "The goal was the upset white people." This drew indignation, resentment, and accusations that Stenberg promotes racism. The voices resurrecting Stenberg’s comments voice opposition to what they call "liberal" or "leftist" narratives. Many in this group are parents or Star Wars fans with conservative viewpoints.
There is also spirited debate about individual freedom and the right to express one's opinions. People emphasize the importance of free speech and bemoan what they perceive as restrictions imposed by woke culture on individual expression.
Some Americans characterize themselves as victims of aggressive leftist agendas, expressing fear and concern about traditional values deteriorating and the erasure of history. They also draw parallels between current socio-political trends and historical societal collapses.
Additionally, there is robust criticism of Democrats, with comments equating the party's policies with communism and predicting a possible civil war due to ideological disparities. They also believe the left would refuse to allow a peaceful separation, if things come to that. Many in this group dismisses Joe Biden’s left leaning administration and a call to save America in upcoming elections.
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