MIG Reports data shows recent online conversations surrounding the assassination attempt on Donald Trump expose skepticism and doubt. This sentiment is largely driven by media reporting about the event, fostering a notable divide in public opinion. The overarching narrative reveals skepticism about the assassination attempt did not originate spontaneously but was significantly influenced by critical media coverage.
Top Topics
People are talking about revelations about the reluctance of the U.S. Secret Service to utilize drones for security. These allegations came to light through sources like Sen. Josh Hawley's whistleblower revelations. Discussions often center around why the Secret Service neglected to employ available drone technology, even after offers from local law enforcement.
People conclude this massive error allowed the assailant to fly his own drone over the venue, several hours prior to the rally. This aspect has given rise to various theories questioning the competence and motives of the Secret Service, leading to accusations of a deliberate stand-down.
Another prominent theme is the political alignment and social media activity of the would-be assassin, Thomas Matthew Crooks. Public discourse fixates on contrasting the portrayal of Crooks’s alleged pro-Biden stance with media suggestions that he may have been a Trump supporter—or at least a Republican. Many people say media bias is skewing coverage, highlighting or downplaying these affiliations based on the narrative they prefer.
Trending Sentiment
There are some who firmly believe in a deeply entrenched conspiracy. This is fueled by consistent Democrat and media skepticism and speculations that the event may have been an inside job or an act of negligence. Those who believe this express a sense of betrayal and frustration with government and media, often citing broader political conspiracies and failures of governmental institutions.
Other groups of voters express outright disbelief, deeming the assassination attempt as exaggerated or fabricated entirely. This skepticism is amplified by the FBI's statements questioning whether Trump was actually struck by a bullet or by shrapnel. These allegations further muddy the waters and feed theories of false flags or setups.
Many accuse the media of perpetuating theories that Trump was not hit by a bullet. This insistence on questioning something that many Americans saw with their own eyes further erodes trust, especially when people point out that Corey Comperatore lost his life.
Prominent keywords in these discussions include "drone technology," "whistleblower," "Secret Service," "leftist," "Biden support," and "media bias." The sustained mention of these terms indicates a profound preoccupation with the operational failures, perceived political motivations, and the credibility of media reporting.
Public sentiment is colored by distrust towards both the media and the government agencies involved. Many believe there's a concerted effort to obscure the truth, whether through deliberate action or systemic incompetence.
The skepticism surrounding the assassination attempt on Donald Trump owes much of its intensity to how media coverage has shaped the narrative. By framing the event with questioning tones and highlighting inconsistencies and failures in security measures, the media has inadvertently or otherwise, sown seeds of doubt and fostered a climate ripe for conspiracy theories.
MIG Reports data shows American perceptions of Vice President Kamala Harris’s economy as like Joe Biden’s, especially on inflation. Public sentiment about Harris as a potential president is negative based on her association with the Inflation Reduction Act and the broader economic conditions under the Biden administration.
Inflation Reduction Act Revisionism
Kamala Harris was the tie-breaking vote in the Senate to help pass the Inflation Reduction Act in 2022. President Joe Biden, along with numerous economists, have since made it clear the Act didn’t address Inflation. More accurately, it was a government spending bill.
Several mainstream media articles even address this, including AP News. When people discuss Kamala Harris and inflation, they criticize the Inflation Reduction Act, decry record high prices and the cost of prescription drugs.
Public discourse frequently highlights Harris's efforts to build up the middle class. However, many attribute the 20.1%+ overall price hike and record high gas prices to her tenure as vice president. There is prevalent criticism that Harris has overseen the decimation of the American Dream.
Despite historical negativity and criticism for her economic record, Harris has enjoyed a sentiment boost in the last couple of days, likely due to coordinated fawning and revisionism by the media to rehabilitate her policy record.
False Support or Dismissal?
Conversations that increase Harris's sentiment often center on touted accomplishments alongside Biden like the Inflation Reduction Act. Despite evidence to the contrary, many supporters still praise them for decreasing costs for families, lowering prescription drug prices, and making historic investments in clean energy jobs and manufacturing.
Harris advocates say these measures demonstrate her efficacy in legislative processes and her capability in executive functions. They say this increases their confidence in her potential presidency. However, these discussions seem based on tribal loyalism as opposed to direct discussion of the Act.
Some on the right speculate that voter support is being astroturfed by biased media and Democratic leaders. They say establishment “machines,” which include the White House press team and mainstream media, are attempting to prop up Kamala Harris by lying about her track record.
Sentiment toward Harris decreases significantly when people consider the negative impacts of inflation directly. High prices, low savings rates, and a general sense of economic decline put many voters on edge. Criticism often revolves around the feeling that Harris, along with Biden, failed to adequately address or prevent these economic challenges, leading many to doubt her competency in managing the economy.
Critics closely associate Harris with unpopular aspects of Biden's administration, such as weak global leadership and failure to address critical domestic issues. Many voters believe Harris would be an extension of Biden’s flaws, citing her role as "Enabler in Chief" and highlighting her record during her time as District Attorney and Attorney General in California as indicative of her inadequacy in future leadership.
Fluff Over Substance
Discussion trends show the public is simply not having the same discussions across the aisle or compared to media discourse. Supporters are vague in their endorsements, leaving room frame Harris’s role in passing progressive legislation as a positive, regardless of specifics. They focus broadly on her stance on issues like reproductive rights, voting rights, and clean energy investments, seeing her as a champion for significant and needed reforms.
Detractors, however, cite specific examples of Harris’s failures and hypocrisies. They emphasize economic difficulties caused by the Biden-Harris administration, the border crisis, and her general alignment with the Biden administration’s less popular policies.
Views of Joe Biden in the wake of his withdrawal from the presidential race is complicated with a mix of relief, sympathy, and anger. Most Americans seem to believe Biden's decision to withdraw from the race is due to his declining health and perceived cognitive challenges, though opinions vary widely. Reactions to his Oval Office address, which did not clarify the issue, do not show a change in public opinion.
The Mask is Off About Biden’s Health
Online conversations about Biden mostly revolve around his health, with many people citing dementia, Parkinson’s, and COVID as concerns. These worries are aggravated by perceptions about how the Democratic establishment handled his withdrawal. Many feel Democrats are clearing Biden and other potential challengers out, manipulating the election process.
There is also a strong belief that circumstances just prior to Biden’s withdrawal, and some after, have been orchestrated to mask his condition. References to Biden's cognitive decline are rampant, with strong criticisms directed at Democratic leaders for not allowing his weaknesses to be questioned or observed much earlier.
Discontent About Kamala’s Nomination
The sudden and rapid replacement of Kamala Harris as the Democratic Party’s heroine and nominee apparent has also shocked many Americans. This reaction is not exclusive to Republicans, different factions within the Democratic Party also express grave concerns.
There is an odd sense of confusion over Democrats and media completely sidelining Biden in favor of Harris, despite his plan to finish his term in office. Voters express a mix of sympathy for Joe Biden as an aging old man and anger at his handlers and family. Others express anger at Biden himself for allowing himself to be put in such a position—however, most ire seems directed at Party leadership.
Kamala Harris is coming under scrutiny for being complicit in covering up Biden’s health. Sentiments about Harris taking over the presidential nomination carry a distinctly negative tone, accusing her of participating in a coup to oust Biden.
Unhelpful Oval Office Address
Biden's recent Oval Office address, meant to clarify his intentions and reassure the public, has only created more confusion and anger. Most observers feel the address offered no substantial answers and failed to address the root concerns about leadership, ideology, and the future direction of the Democratic Party.
The public perceives the address as offensively insufficient, leading to further frustration and a growing sense of distrust. There is a feeling of disrespect toward the American people, particularly concerning the president’s disregard for democratic processes.
Intra-party disagreement and disarray in the Democratic Party adds another layer to the public’s reaction. Even members of the voter base, notably from the Black Lives Matter movement, criticize the DNC for sidelining Biden through dubious means.
Accusations include the refusal to allow genuine appearances and interactions with Joe Biden in public, altering schedules without explanation, and ultimately forcing him out post-primary. Many voters on both sides view Democrat leaders as ushering in a new candidate without proper voter engagement.
Republicans Call it a Shadow Presidency
Most Republicans believe Biden has clear signs of cognitive decline, often sharing his public gaffes, mental lapses, and shuffling, elderly demeanor as evidence. People frequently use the term "unfit" about his capability to fulfill presidential duties. Many Republicans also argue that, if Biden is unable to campaign for a second term, he’s equally unable to serve the remainder of his term.
Voters on the right often suggest the 25th Amendment should be used against Biden, who they believe is clearly not in control of the county. These Americans express outrage that the White House and Democratic leaders are unwilling to admit Biden is not capable of executing his duties. There is also anger that leadership will not speak transparently about who is running the country.
Republicans suspect Biden is a figurehead, with decisions being made by a communist shadow government or the far-left wing of the Democratic Party. There are suggestions that Biden’s presidency is a continuation of Obama’s policies, calling it "Obama’s third term." People accuse high-profile Democratic figures like Jill Biden and former President Barack Obama of orchestrating Biden’s moves behind the scenes.
Democrats Still Praise Biden
Many Democrats still defend Joe Biden's presidency, believing he is actively fulfilling his role. They focus on his policy achievements such as making gender medical transition more accessible to minors and supporting Black Lives Matter (BLM) advocacy.
While there is recognition of Biden’s age, many Democrats view his experience as an asset, not a liability. Public conversations within the Democratic sphere often revolve around ideological alignment with Biden’s policies, underscoring a belief in progressive values.
Post-debate and following Biden’s withdrawal from the race, more Democrats are acknowledging the poor state of his health and mental capacity. However, they also say criticism of Biden's health is exaggerated and politically motivated.
However, even among Democrats, there is not unanimous support. The factions of Democratic voters who view Joe Biden as incapacitated by illness or old age also tend to be the ones who express anger at Party leadership for undemocratic practices.
Critical terms like “Party elites” and “billionaire donors” illustrate frustration over perceived undemocratic maneuvers within the party. This internal critique indicates a sentiment that progressive ideals are sometimes compromised by the party’s political strategies.
Recent protests in Washington D.C. against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dominated public discussion online. Pro-Palestinian protesters and leftists took to the streets of Washington D.C., the Capitol rotunda, and even the Watergate Hotel. Many recalled memories of 2020 as anti-American sentiment reached the level of fervor similar to riots during the last election cycle.
Conversations primarily focus on themes of justice, legal double standards, and national identity. Many Americans question and criticize the actions of protesters, considering the broader implications on democracy and international relations.
Flag Burning
Many Americans are highly offended and outraged by pro-Hamas protesters publicly burning American flags, defacing monuments, assaulting police offices, and burning Benjamin Netanyahu’s effigy.
Videos of the protesters tearing down and burning American flags and replacing it with a Palestinian flag outside Union Station went viral. Many saw these actions as highly anti-American and antisemitic, stirring strong emotional responses. Public sentiment around the demonstrations largely skews negative, with significant outrage expressed about attacks on American symbols and values.
Liberal positions held by voters and representatives like Rashida Tlaib defend the protesters, emphasizing their right to free expression and sympathizing with their cause. However, this segment is notably smaller and often overshadowed by the louder opposition of pro-America and pro-Israel sentiment.
"Chickens for KFC"
In his speech, Prime Minister Netanyahu's made remarks about prominent "Gays for Gaza" signs, comparing them to "Chickens for KFC.” This comment has also become a focal point of public discussion. Netanyahu’s analogy elicits various reactions from laughter and agreement to anger.
Supporters of Netanyahu view his comments as a poignant critique of perceived hypocrisies within the protest movement. They argue the LGBTQ+ community would face persecution under governance like Hamas's, echoing Netanyahu’s sentiment. Many point out the contradiction of protesters demonstrating on behalf of a regime that would gladly kill them.
Conversely, critics argue Netanyahu’s comments are inflammatory and dismissive, exacerbating tensions rather than fostering dialogue. This group says equating protesters with KFC chickens undermines the legitimate grievances about Israel's policies. Terms like "insensitive," "dismissive," and "offensive" frequently appear in these criticisms.
2024 Riots Echo 2020 Riots
The events also ignite memories of riots across the country related to Black Lives Matter and the January 6 Capitol riot in 2020. The public draws parallels between the scale of the unrest and government responses then and now. People question consistency and justice for different protest groups.
Many voters highlight a perceived double standard in how authorities manage protests concerning different political or social issues. The phrase "two-tier justice" emerges as a recurrent theme, reflecting skepticism about fair treatment under the law depending on the nature of the protest.
Especially on the right, there are accusations that left leaning protesters like those supporting BLM and pro-Palestine causes face little or no consequences for their actions. Meanwhile, right leaning protesters like January 6 attendees and young people peeling out on “Pride” crosswalks face severe criminal charges and even imprisonment.
American Leadership Silence
Another significant element in the public discourse focuses on Nancy Pelosi and Vice President Harris not attending Netanyahu's speech. This is perceived by some as a political maneuver indicative of their stance on Israel-Palestine relationships. Many also criticize VP Harris for failing to comment on the vandalism and violence of the protests.
Misinformation and conspiracy theories also circulate, suggesting Israeli infiltrators staged some actions to provoke hatred against Gaza. Sentiment trends reveal a mix of support for both Israel and Palestine, but are driven by intense emotional responses, inflamed further by personal stories of suffering from both sides. The plight of kidnapped hostages and innocent victims fuels compassionate calls for ceasefire and humanitarian aid.
Discussion trends reveal dominant topics around national identity, free speech, and international diplomacy. The sentiment oscillates between highly charged outrage and staunch defense of either Israel, Palestine, or America. Reasons for these sentiment trends often connect to enduring national traumas, contemporary political divisions, and the pervasive influence of media portrayal of such events.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's popularity in the United States is increasingly polarized. Conversations online highlight a range of opinions influenced by political affiliation, geographic location, and demographics. There is a significant emphasis on Israel's military actions, Netanyahu's political maneuvers, and the implications of U.S. foreign policy.
Lukewarm on Netanyahu
American feelings about Netanyahu and Israel's policies are highly polarized. Discussions show intense emotions, with strong support or vehement opposition, influenced by recent military actions and political statements.
Since the October 7 attacks, there is a discernible shift in sentiment with increased scrutiny and criticism of Israel's military responses. This has led to heightened calls for a ceasefire and a reevaluation of U.S. support for Israel.
Political affiliations greatly influence sentiments. Younger voters and progressive groups, including many within the Democratic Party, display more critical views of Netanyahu's policies. Conversely, conservative and older demographics, particularly within the Republican base, showcase stronger support for Netanyahu and Israel. However, many on both sides of the aisle are growing fatigued with the financial cost of supporting Israel for Americans.
Keywords
Many Americans view Netanyahu through the perspective of the Israel-Hamas War, therefore, discussion shaping these discussions are centered on the conflict. Common words mentioned include:
Israel, Gaza, IDF, Hamas: Central to discussions about military actions and regional security.
Ceasefire, U.S. Aid, Apartheid, ICJ Ruling: Frequent in conversations about international law, human rights, and U.S.-Israel relations.
Kamala Harris, Netanyahu, Trump: Indicative of political figures' influence on public opinion and policy discussions.
Political Figures and Statements
Figures like Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump frequently feature in these discussions. Harris's refusal to meet Netanyahu upon his arrival in the U.S. and her comments about not dictating Israel's military actions are cited as evidence of a shift in the Democratic Party's stance towards Israel. Trump, on the other hand, is seen by his supporters as a strong ally of Israel, emphasizing his administration's actions such as recognizing Jerusalem as Israel's capital.
Public Protests and Social Movements
Grassroots movements and protests, particularly those led by Jewish groups within the U.S., highlight a growing dissatisfaction with current U.S. policies towards Israel. Protests demanding an arms embargo and an end to military aid to Israel demonstrate a shift in public sentiment and a call for a more balanced approach that considers Palestinian rights.
Israel's Military Actions and the Gaza Conflict
People are talking about Israel's military actions in Gaza, particularly focusing on airstrikes and the resulting civilian casualties. There is a notable dichotomy where one side condemns Israel's actions as overly aggressive and harmful to Palestinians. Ther other side defends them as necessary for national security against Hamas.
International Court of Justice Rulings
There are debates around recent ICJ rulings declaring Israel's occupation of Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem as unlawful and labeling its actions as apartheid. Supporters of the ICJ ruling argue it is a step forward for Palestinian rights and international accountability. Opponents, often pro-Israel, discredit the court's opinions, viewing them as biased and ill-informed.
U.S.-Israel Relations
The relationship between the United States and Israel is another significant topic, with discussions around U.S. military aid to Israel and the perceived political maneuvers within the American political landscape. More voters are beginning to express frustration with continued U.S. support for Israel. Some advocate for a ceasefire and others call for a reevaluation of or halt to aid. Others assert support for Israel remains crucial for regional stability and counterterrorism.
MIG Reports data has been revealing a growing sense that crypto voters are becoming important for the 2024 election. Ongoing public sentiment toward the Biden administration and Democratic stance on cryptocurrency has largely been negative. There is sharp skepticism and a sense of caution about Democrat approaches to regulation and crypto policy.
Many voters express concern about overregulation by Democrat-led initiatives, blaming figures like Joe Biden, Elizabeth Warren, and SEC chair Gary Gensler. Crypto voters also fear Democrats will stifle innovation and drive cryptocurrency ventures out of the United States. People say the Biden administration's regulatory impulses are the same as those which led to increased inflation and financial instability.
With a crypto-friendly politician like J.D. Vance stepping into the spotlight as Donald Trump’s VP pick, crypto voters are coming back to the fore. Recent developments on the Democratic ticket have also opened an opportunity for Democrats to change their tune.
After Trump’s recent overtures to the crypto community, rumors began to swirl that Democratic nominee Kamala Harris may try to change Democratic positioning. However, her decision not to speak alongside Trump at the 2024 Bitcoin conference and allegations that she said Bitcoin is “money for criminals” do not seem to support this hypothesis.
JUST IN: Kamala Harris decided NOT to speak at #Bitcoin 2024 Conference in Nashville, CEO David Bailey confirms. pic.twitter.com/FSMVemzEGM
In swing states like Ohio, cryptocurrency discourse is growing. This group promotes the advantages of cryptocurrency and blockchain, suggesting these technologies should be embraced to create more accessible and inclusive financial systems. They view market volatility as an opportunity rather than a threat.
While still somewhat a niche group, their presence in swing states indicates a growing interest in non-traditional economic policies, particularly resonating with those disillusioned by traditional financial institutions.
Voters in critical states express varying degrees of enthusiasm and concern over the growth of cryptocurrency. There is increased buzz with political positioning from high-profile figures like Donald Trump and J.D. Vance.
Sentiment toward cryptocurrency in these regions appears predominantly positive, marked by optimism about technological innovation. However, there is also an undercurrent of skepticism and concern regarding regulatory actions and the stability of digital currencies.
Concerns About Crypto Regulation
Concerns about regulatory overreach, particularly from the SEC, are prevalent. This is notable with social media speculation that Kamala Harris may mention Elizabeth Warren or Gary Gensler as potential Treasury Secretary under a Harris administration.
Hearing from Democrat insiders that Kamala Harris will name-check Elizabeth Warren or Gary Gensler for Treasury, Bernie Sanders for HHS, and get this - in order to motivate the liberal base - AOC for Defense! 🤯
The SEC's stringent regulatory approach is seen as stifling innovation and driving businesses and investors away. Gary Gensler, the current SEC chair, is frequently mentioned negatively, reflecting dissatisfaction with his handling of crypto regulations.
Sentiment towards Kamala Harris and other Democrat leaders indicates an expectation for clear stances on crypto. Harris's emerging candidacy raises questions about her position on digital assets, given her lack of public comments on cryptocurrency.
Republicans Court Crypto Voters
J.D. Vance's selection as a potential VP candidate generates excitement within the crypto community due to his crypto-friendly stance. This includes his criticisms of the SEC and calls for more relaxed and clear crypto regulations. His substantial Bitcoin investments and advocacy for the industry are seen as a promising sign for future policies.
The influence of Silicon Valley and tech entrepreneurs plays a significant role in the narrative. Some approve of a potential alliance between the tech sector and conservative politics, motivated by shared interests in minimizing regulatory burdens and fostering innovation.
The Importance of Crypto Voters
A growing audience views crypto as a pivotal issue in upcoming elections, both in swing states and nationally. However, there seems to be a generational divide where younger, tech-savvy voters gravitate towards crypto-friendly candidates and older voters may not.
The anticipation of regulatory clarity and favorable policies from a Trump-Vance administration contrasts sharply with fears of continued regulatory crackdowns under a similar Democratic regime. This divide may well be a critical factor in determining the sway of crypto voters in the next election cycle.
Overall, the importance of crypto voters is projected to be substantial in both swing states and the national election.
American views of DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas currently revolve around the recent assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump and the resignation of Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle. Online conversations reflect an intense scrutiny of the Secret Service's role in security failures and raise numerous concerns about potential cover-ups by federal agencies. Public sentiment strongly centers on accountability and transparency, primarily driven by a deeper distrust of government institutions.
There is a pervasive belief that Cheatle’s resignation is a move orchestrated to protect Mayorkas. Many voice skepticism and outrage over the perceived manipulation and mishandling of investigations related to the assassination attempt.
Trending Discussions
Voters demand more transparency and accountability from both the Secret Service, DHS, and the FBI. There is a significant emphasis on obtaining access to various forms of communications—radio, text, and emails—as well as forensic evidence. People want answers about shell casing locations and weapon descriptions. Witness statements, social media activity, and cell phone data from the shooter are also highly sought after by the public.
Many see Director Cheatle’s resignation as part of a larger "cover-up" to protect higher-ups, most notably Alejandro Mayorkas. Discussion frequently mentions deleted Secret Service text messages from January 6, which heightens suspicions of ulterior motives and hidden truths.
There is a persistent belief that Mayorkas or other leaders denied essential resources and support which could have prevented the assassination attempt, lending credence to conspiracy theories perpetuated by the public.
Sentiment Trends
Voter sentiment toward Alejandro Mayorkas is overwhelmingly negative, driven by accusations multi-agency conspiracies against Donald Trump. The public feels strongly that Mayorkas, Cheatle, and others should be held accountable. There are calls for their arrests and charges for accessories to attempted murder.
This intense scrutiny is exacerbated by fresh revelations in media reports, such as inconsistencies in statements from the Secret Service and Mayorkas’ office. These inconsistencies further fuels distrust toward investigators and leaders.
There are also claim from the founder of the social media platform Gab, that the shooter may have had a Gab account on which he posted support for Biden. This contradicts media and Democrat narratives denying that the shooter had a social media presence.
🚨Approximately 30 minutes ago, Gab learned that Thomas Crooks, the deranged Joe Biden supporter who attempted to assassinate President Donald Trump, may have had an account on our platform. We are unable to confirm that the account in question actually belonged to him.
Sentiment trends indicate a profoundly polarized environment, with discussions frequently boiling over into demands for impeachment and broader political consequences. Furthermore, the public's reaction underscores a boiling distrust in government institutions and a belief that significant conspiracies are regularly hidden from view.
Impact on Voters
With these scandals and growing distrust, undecided voters in swing states and nationally may play a decisive role in the election. The way this situation unfolds and how it is handled could influence voter perceptions of the current administration's integrity and competence.
Critical voter groups will inevitably look to how the government addresses these accusations. A perceived cover-up or failure to transparently address the assassination attempt on Donald Trump could sway votes towards him. Especially if he continues to promise accountability and transparency.
Online discussions about Vice President Kamala Harris and her role as “Border Czar” under President Joe Biden is notably critical and with widespread disapproval. The public prominently questions her efficacy and commitment to addressing the complex issues at the southern border, often emphasizing her lack of communication with top Border Patrol officials like Jason Owens and Raul Ortiz. This perceived neglect fuels a narrative of incompetence and inaction.
What People Are Saying
Top topics in these conversations include illegal immigration, crime rates associated with migrant populations, and the economic or social impacts of border policies. Words and phrases such as "illegal immigrants," "cartels," "border crisis," and "fentanyl deaths" frequently surface, underscoring the public's focus on security threats and their repercussions on American communities.
The narrative also revisits Harris's past comments from 2019, where she dismissed the idea of a border crisis. This exacerbates the current sentiment that she is detached from the reality on the ground.
The Trump campaign’s efforts to spotlight Harris's border record drive many recent conversations. Trump’s calls with influencers like Border Patrol Union Presidents Brandon Judd and Paul Perez reinforce the critique of Harris as Border Czar. Recent Trump PAC advertisements Biden-Harris border failures, highlighting comments from Harris supporting decriminalizing illegal immigration and abolishing ICE.
Media Try to Change the Narrative
Many Americans, who are already disillusioned with the mainstream media, are pointing out rushed attempts to change Harris’s border narrative. Outlets are now claiming that Biden never appointed Harris as “Border Czar,” despite the very same outlets reporting on in at the time.
Axios in particular is facing severe backlash for retroactively correcting its own reporting calling Harris Border Czar. People rip Axios and other mainstream outlets attempting to walk back their own reporting in efforts to improve Harris’s image. Voters, especially on the right, accuse mainstream media of shaping politicized narrative and lying to Americans.
Journalists were calling Kamala the border czar until like five minutes ago. Don't let the media gaslight you. pic.twitter.com/oveoFcBn4G
Voters mostly feel Harris’s tenure as a failure. They attribute severe consequences like increased crime, profit gains for cartels, and widespread fentanyl deaths to her Border Czar policies. The criticism intensifies with claims of Harris's policies harming Special Education services due to resource strains caused by illegal immigration.
If the critical sentiment towards Harris solidifies among undecided voters, it is likely to hurt her presidential campaign given border security is a high-priority issue.
Voter opinions of J.D. Vance's vice-presidential candidacy show hesitant hope, some skepticism, and direct criticism. Supporters laud his life story as emblematic of the American Dream. His rise from disadvantaged beginnings to the national political stage is seen as a testament to meritocracy.
Vance’s supporters are especially keen on highlighting his service in the Marines and his Ivy League education as accomplishments earned through hard work and determination. This narrative of individual effort resonates strongly with traditional American values of self-reliance and perseverance, giving cautious hope to those unfamiliar with Vance.
There are some who argue Vance's life story as a powerful counterpoint to criticisms of elitism within the political establishment. His rise from his socio-economic background situates him as an inspiring figure for many Americans dissatisfied with career politicians. This sentiment is compounded by comparisons to Kamala Harris, who many view as a DEI token.
However, many people also have concerns and sharp criticisms—especially when it comes to Vance’s tech ties.
In the last 7 days, overall approval for J.D. Vance has hovered at or just below 50%.
His approval on the economy fluctuates slightly but averaged 49% in the last week.
Sentiment toward Vance on crypto has the highest high at 52%, but also the lowest low at 45%, likely due to lower discussion volume.
General Reaction to Vance’s Tech History
Public reactions to J.D. Vance's connections to Silicon Valley and the tech sector are mixed. There are supporters who are enthusiastic about the potential benefits of his connections. They say Vance's ties to Silicon Valley could drive innovation and economic growth. They also believe his relationships with tech giants may bring much-needed investment and expertise to various sectors, including education, infrastructure, and job creation.
Sentiment trends reveal deep concerns about economic and political power dynamics. The public repeatedly underscores that the middle class should not bear the burden of policies and systems that disproportionately benefit the wealthy elite. This discontent is amplified in the context of unions, with many feeling true advocacy for working-class interests is incompatible with benefiting from Silicon Valley's corporate wealth.
In contrast, there are individuals who view Vance’s background in the tech sector as potentially advantageous. There is cautious excitement about the possibility of having a candidate who understands the complexities and potential of technological innovation and its impact on the economy. They see Vance as a figure who can perhaps bring fresh, tech-driven perspectives to policymaking. This they hope will foster growth which can solve modern economic challenges with innovative solutions.
Public sentiment towards Vance is complicated by his perceived contradictions. Some voters applaud his narrative of rising from humble beginnings and attaining success, viewing it as a testament to the American Dream. However, this narrative is simultaneously criticized, with detractors accusing Vance of romanticizing his past while contradicting it through his political stances and elite connections.
Arguments Defending Vance
Americans seem generally disapproving of any perception of undue influence by wealthy individuals on politics. They also regularly express concerns over economic equity and fairness. Vance’s connections to Silicon Valley and his critiques of current economic policies elicit mixed reactions, ranging from support for his tech-oriented insights to strong disapproval of his financial backers and political rhetoric.
Despite general disapproval for wealth influencing politics, some Americans appreciate Vance for his rejection of traditional establishment politics within the Republican Party. They resonate with his "pro-union anti-corporate" rhetoric.
Hopefuls value what they see as his commitment to fighting corporate excesses and believe in his potential to rejuvenate the GOP with a blend of economic populism and cultural conservatism. These supporters tend to downplay or dismiss the negative characterizations, viewing them as media exaggerations meant to discredit a rising political figure who might disrupt the status quo.
Many supporters, tech enthusiasts, and crypto voters largely support Vance's commitment to clear cryptocurrency regulations. They appreciate his efforts to navigate the regulatory landscape, which they view as fraught with restrictive measures under current administration policies.
This group likes Vance's critique of the SEC's hardline enforcement tactics, which they believe stifle innovation. His legislative proposals aiming to overhaul how the SEC and CFTC regulate crypto are seen as steps towards an environment more conducive to technological growth and investment.
Vance's personal involvement in the crypto sphere, evidenced by his Bitcoin holdings and public comments, amplifies his credibility among crypto voters—who are increasingly seen as an important voting group. His actions such as voting to repeal controversial accounting rules and opposing stringent tax reporting requirements demonstrate a deep understanding of the challenges faced by the industry.
Supporters like Vance’s comments on the utility of cryptocurrencies in circumventing government overreach. This is highlighted by his stance on the Canadian trucker protests and gaining traction with voters who value financial autonomy and limited government interference.
Negativity Toward Vance as VP
Vance's controversial stances and his connections with influential figures like Peter Thiel can also drum up disapproval. Critics believe there’s reason for concern and Vance may pose a significant threat to democratic norms.
This position has been emphasized heavily in public discussions, particularly following Liz Cheney’s sharp critique. Cheney's assertions that Vance would "overturn an election and illegally seize power" and "capitulate to Russia" resonate strongly with liberals and anti-Trump Republicans.
Vance also faces criticism from some Republicans and the media for his perceived hypocrisy and controversial positions. Some praise his alignment with former President Trump, but others use his past criticism of Trump as evidence of hypocrisy or a disingenuous power play.
The influence of Peter Thiel and other billionaires financing Vance’s campaigns generates contentious debate about the role of money in politics. Critics argue his backing fuels fears of oligarchic control over democratic processes. This sentiment suggests a widening economic and representational gap, intensifying the debate over campaign finance reform.
Concerns arise regarding the potential for a monopolistic tech landscape bolstered by politicians like Vance. Critics argue Vance’s tech ties and support from high-profile tech investors could perpetuate a monopolistic ecosystem where large corporations dominate, leaving little room for grassroots innovation.