Former ESPN anchor Sage Steele recently alleged on Fox News that her 2021 interview with President Biden was completely scripted. Steele claims the interview questions were prepared in advance and required strict adherence by the president’s communications team. Her comments about the interview, which originally aired on ESPN, are generating controversy in the field of journalism, opening discussions about the authenticity of the interview and journalistic integrity.

It also fans the flames of concern many Americans have about Joe Biden’s mental fitness for office. Many voters believe Biden’s cognitive acuity is rapidly declining, necessitating tight control over what the President says and what questions press are allowed to ask him.

In traditional journalism, it is considered unethical to provide interviewees with scripted questions beforehand. This is because it allows guests to prepare answers, which can potentially manipulate the narrative and mislead the public. The objective of journalism is to uncover truth and hold those in power accountable, which may be compromised when interviewees are given prepared questions.

In the case of President Biden, it also highlights concerns over his ability to answer questions extemporaneously, without confusion or large lapses in memory. Instances of Biden seeming disoriented during public appearances are a growing concern for many voters on both sides of the aisle.

The situation with Sage Steele and Joe Biden represents a recurring issue for Biden as more accusations emerge of scripted interviews with the press. In this instance, people speculate whether ESPN, as a major news outlet, allowed its journalistic standards to be undermined for a high-profile political figure. This has potential implications for the credibility of ESPN and any journalist who allows prepared questions for the president.

The controversy also raises questions about the role of media in politics. Many people believe if media outlets are accepting scripted questions from the Biden administration, it will lead to unfair bias, favoring the White House agenda over journalistic inquiry. This can lead to a lack of trust in the media and further polarize political discourse.

MIG Reports analysis of the original interview identified:

• The questions were tailored to convey specific messages.
• Themes included COVID-19 vaccination, sports-politics intersection, and family anecdotes.
• There was an emphasis on promoting vaccination and addressing election issues in Georgia.
• Concerns were raised about potential propaganda or manipulation.
• There were obvious elements of political messaging present in the interview.

The scripted nature of presidential interviews implies a corrupt relationship between politics and media in the modern era. While political leaders seek to control their messaging and shape public opinion, media organizations have a duty to prioritize journalistic integrity and independence.

This event highlights the importance of journalistic integrity and the potential implications of compromising unbiased reporting. It suggests a dereliction of duty by media outlets in holding the powerful accountable and providing the public with unbiased information.

Recent events in media expose the growing dissatisfaction Americans have with news and entertainment outlets. Data suggests that viewer trust in mainstream media outlets is precipitously low as viewers feel media elites despise average people.

There is also a perception among many that the mainstream media is biased in its coverage. People point out examples when news highlights any Biden surge in the polls, rather than scrutinizing his policies. There is a sentiment that Trump's actions and policies are often unfairly criticized or misrepresented by the media.

Media Bias Against Trump

There is a strong sentiment among right leaning and conservative Americans that media coverage of Trump is unfairly negative and strongly biased against him. They accuse outlets and commentators of spreading lies and being part of a "witch hunt" against the former president. This sentiment is particularly strong among older demographics and those living in traditionally conservative states.

This group sees Trump as a champion for their beliefs and values. They are harshly critical of what they perceive as liberal bias in the media. Many also express a belief in Trump's innocence in the face of ongoing legal issues and investigations, often attributing these to political persecution.

On the other hand, critics of Trump, who tend to identify as liberals or Democrats, are supportive of recent media coverage, particularly regarding his ongoing legal issues. They accuse Trump of corruption and believe his actions deserve scrutiny.

This sentiment is prevalent among younger demographics and those in traditionally liberal states. Critics also express frustration with what they perceive as the media's "soft" approach on Trump, arguing that he should be held more accountable for his actions.

Elite’s Disrespect for Average People

A recent example of Stephen Colbert's fundraising efforts for Joe Biden fuels voter perceptions that entertainment and media figures ignore the transgressions of Democrats while constantly harping on conservatives. Many criticize Colbert for using his cultural influence to sway political outcomes.

The interview between former CNN host Don Lemon and the owner of X, Elon Musk, has also spurred a significant response from the American public. The interview sparked conversations about media bias, with conservatives accusing networks like NBC of suppressing conservative voices and liberals accusing networks like Fox News of promoting misinformation. This indicates a deep distrust between the two sides and the media.

People are also discussing a recent controversy involving comedian Jon Stewart’s hypocrisy in discussing Trump’s New York legal case. Stewart reportedly overvalued his home in a similar way to what Trump is accused of doing. Many accuse Stewart of promoting a double standard and negatively shaping media perceptions. Some argue Stewart should be held to the same standards as Trump and pay back taxes.

There is also criticism directed at NBC for hiring and promptly firing former RNC Chair Ronna McDaniel. Discussions criticize the network for acquiescing to the complaints and laments voiced by NBC and MSNBC hosts like Chuck Todd, Kristen Welker, and Jen Psaki.

Normal Americans Feel Misrepresented

Another grievance many Americans express against mainstream media and entertainment is their elitism. There is a growing sense among working and middle-class voters, particularly conservatives, that media elites are out of touch with "normal" people.

This sentiment is fueled by perceived liberal bias in the media, with critics arguing media elites look down on traditional values and the everyday concerns of Americans living outside major urban centers. However, some still argue the media plays a crucial role in holding those in power accountable.

Despite some defense of mainstream media, the theme of "media elites" versus "normal Americans" is recurring in online discussions. Average people in middle America or suburban and rural communities feel marginalized and believe the media doesn't represent their perspectives or concerns.

While some simply feel media elites are distant from the realities of ordinary life, others perceive a targeted animosity from media figures. Many feel comments from figures like Joy Reid, Don Lemon, Rachel Maddow, Joe Scarborough, and others reveal a certain disgust for average people.

There is also a prevailing sentiment that media elites “hate normal Americans” who align with conservative values. Some give examples of media figures insulting the intelligence of conservatives, deriding their traditions or religious beliefs, portraying negative stereotypes of them, and attributing false motives to their actions.

Dismissing the Sins of Their Allies

Many criticize the media for what they see as a bias towards the left and a tendency to downplay or ignore the transgressions of Democratic politicians. Middle-class voters often express feelings of being overlooked or undervalued, while victimizing and harmful actions by elites are justified and dismissed.

Mainstream media is perceived as propagandizing policies favoring the wealthy and powerful. This sentiment is reflected in discussions about the lack of representation for blue-collar Americans in the media and politics.

There are some who laud the media's efforts to hold the government accountable, however. This group praises the resilience of figures like Joe Biden in the face of intense scrutiny.

After a controversial encounter a female Planet Fitness member had with a trans person shaving his beard in the women’s bathroom, Planet Fitness is facing Budweiser-style public backlash. Allegations also include a biological man allegedly exposing himself to a 15-year-old in the women's locker room at Planet Fitness.

Many Americans are deeply upset with Planet Fitness's stance on trans issues. They feel the company is not respecting the rights of women but is supporting woke gender ideology. There are frequent calls for boycotts and strong language used against Planet Fitness, accusing the company of supporting potentially dangerous trans activists at the expense of women.

• Sentiment towards transgender rights has decreased slightly in the last two weeks, while discussion volume is up in the last week.

Online Discussion About Woke Policies at Planet Fitness

Public discussion about Planet Fitness is decisively negative, with many people declaring they intend to or have already canceled their memberships. Many are also praising the economic consequences of a growing Planet Fitness boycott, causing the company to lose stock value.

There is also a recurring theme of freedom of speech throughout the discussion. Some voters believe that by supporting transgender rights, Planet Fitness is suppressing the freedom of speech of women who disagree with their stance. They argue that everyone has the right to voice their opinions, even if they are seen as offensive or controversial by others.

There are also growing social media movements that display how dissatisfied people are with Planet Fitness' policies on transgender people using their facilities. There are people posting with the hashtags #BoycottPlanetFitness and #Misogyny, indicating a negative sentiment towards the company due to their perceived negligence of women's safety.

The discussion is heavily influenced by political ideologies, with many linking their views on Planet Fitness to their broader political beliefs. There is a clear divide between conservative and liberal viewpoints, with each side accusing the other of trying to impose their beliefs on the rest of society.

While the discussion is predominantly negative, there are also voices in support of Planet Fitness's stance on trans issues. These people argue that supporting trans rights is a matter of basic human rights and equality, and they applaud Planet Fitness for taking a stand.

How Different Voter Groups View Trans Rights

Conservative Voters

In general, conservatives tend to speak out against the inclusion of trans people in women's spaces like restrooms and locker rooms. This group often views this issue through the lens of biological sex rather than gender identity, arguing for the preservation of spaces designated for biological women.

Liberal Voters

More left-leaning voters are generally more supportive of trans rights, including the right to be included in spaces that align with their gender identity. They often argue for inclusivity and equality, seeing this issue as part of the broader fight for LGBT+ rights.

Moderates and Independents

There's no strong consensus among Independents, but they generally strive to find a middle ground. Some may support trans rights but also voice concerns about potential implications for cisgender women.

Kyle Rittenhouse, a divisive figure in American public discourse, gave a speech at the University of Memphis, which was met with significant protest. The event was charged with tension as students, evidently more politically active than in previous years, made their opposition to Rittenhouse's presence clear.

Rittenhouse, who was acquitted after shooting three people during protests in Kenosha, Wisconsin in 2020, was invited to speak by Turning Point USA. His speech was met by a wave of protests. These protests show a more active and vocal student body at the University of Memphis, compared to 2018 when conservative speaker Ben Shapiro visited without any significant opposition. This suggests a growing awareness or “wokeness” among the student body, reflecting a shift in political consciousness, or posturing, over the past five years.

The protest against Rittenhouse's speech was part of a larger thread of student activism on the day. Elsewhere, pro-Palestinian students at the University of Kentucky disrupted a speech by British Jewish conservative pundit, Ian Haworth. This was marked by anti-Israel chants and the pulling of the fire alarm. This indicates a broader trend of political activism on campuses, often directed against conservative speakers. It could also suggest a growing divide between the left and the right — and, increasingly, various factions within the left — with each side increasingly intolerant of the other's views.

Previously, high volumes of social commentary on protests have peaked during causes for Palestine, such as:

• 3-month anniversary of the Israel-Palestine War (Jan 7)
• March for Gaza (Jan 13)
• Worldwide protests of the Israeli-Palestine War (Jan 18)
• "Uncommitted Protests” in Democratic Primary (Feb 27)

Protests such as the one targeting Rittenhouse's speech could be seen as an exercise in free speech, a right both the left and right claim to champion. On the other hand, some might argue that these protests demonstrate an intolerance for opposing viewpoints, a criticism often leveled at the left by the right.

Rittenhouse's speech at the University of Memphis was a flashpoint in a broader narrative of increased political activism and polarization on American university campuses. The reaction to his speech is indicative of the heightened political consciousness among students, and of the tensions that can arise when controversial figures are invited to speak. Sentiments seem to be exacerbating a polarized political landscape, where both the left and right are increasingly unwilling to engage with opposing viewpoints.

The Supreme Court is set to hear oral arguments today in a case that has ignited a fierce debate about free speech and government censorship online. Murthy v. Missouri will determine whether the Biden administration's efforts to pressure social media companies to censor certain content violated the First Amendment. The case stems from actions taken by the federal government in 2021 to combat what it deemed "disinformation" and "misinformation" on various online platforms.

The lawsuit, initially filed by the attorneys general of Missouri and Louisiana, accused the Biden administration of overreach and likened its tactics to those of an "Orwellian Ministry of Truth." The government's actions, which included pressuring social media giants like Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) to remove content related to topics like the COVID-19 lab leak theory and vaccine efficacy, sparked widespread controversy and legal scrutiny.

Public Discourse

Republicans have been vocal in their concerns about the potential implications of government-led censorship. They fear that a ruling in favor of the government could set a precedent for broader censorship, particularly targeting right-wing media outlets. Many view this as an attack on dissenting voices and a fundamental erosion of democratic principles.

In contrast, Democrats emphasize the rights of private companies to moderate content on their platforms. They focus on their concern about former President Trump's influence on the Supreme Court, particularly through the appointment of three justices during his tenure. They fear this may bias the court's rulings in favor of his interests.

The case has ignited a flurry of discussions across social media platforms, reflecting a deep-seated unease and dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs. Many social media users have expressed dismay over what they perceive as growing authoritarianism and censorship in the country. There are fears that a ruling favoring government censorship could lead to further erosion of free speech rights, particularly for dissenting voices and right-wing media outlets.

Justice Jackson Inspires a Hot Debate

Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson made an interesting comment about the First Amendment that has further fueled debate.

Jackson's assertion that the First Amendment is "hamstringing" the federal government has drawn sharp criticism from Republicans, who argue that such a view indicates a fundamental misunderstanding or disregard for the principles enshrined in the Constitution. Some Republicans have gone as far as to suggest that her comments reveal a broader trend of governmental overreach and a willingness to curtail constitutional freedoms.

Democrats, however, have rallied behind Justice Jackson, citing her extensive legal background and qualifications for the role. They argue that criticisms of her are unfounded and politically motivated, emphasizing her impressive credentials, including graduating from Harvard Law and serving as a district judge. Many Democrats view Justice Jackson's comments as a reflection of her nuanced understanding of constitutional law and the complexities of balancing individual rights with government authority.

The debate surrounding Justice Jackson's comments has underscored the deeply polarized nature of the discourse surrounding the case. While Republicans express concerns about the potential implications of her views for free speech and individual liberties, Democrats defend her as a highly qualified jurist with a firm commitment to upholding the Constitution. Jackson's comments are likely to remain a focal point of discussion as the case progresses.

Conclusion

Overall, the case of Murthy v. Missouri has become a lightning rod for discussions about free speech, government overreach, and the role of the Supreme Court in safeguarding constitutional rights. As the oral arguments unfold, the nation awaits a decision that could have far-reaching implications for the future of online discourse and democratic governance.

The House voted to pass a recent TikTok bill potentially banning the social media platform in the U.S., and conversations sparked online. While more Republicans than Democrats voted to pass the bill, conversations suggest divisions among voters are not strictly partisan. As more information comes out about the legislation, opinions are shaping across age demographics as well as political parties.

Younger Millennials and Gen Z Voters

Voters under 30 are expressing significant concern about the TikTok bill. They mostly view it as a potential threat to freedom of speech and privacy. They argue that it opens the door for governmental control over social media and news outlets.

Some people are suggesting rules in the bill may set the stage for abuse by future presidents, opening the door for more unchecked censorship. They fear the bill may allow executive actions to ban any sites, not just TikTok, that a president finds objectionable.

Many young people are also questioning the motives behind the bill, suspecting the involvement of competing platforms like Facebook.

There are some younger voters who see the bill as a necessary measure to protect national security. But because younger people compose the largest userbase for platforms like TikTok, support for the bill seems limited in this demographic.

Young people often use TikTok and similar platforms for entertainment and as a tool for political activism and social justice movements. They largely argue the bill infringes on their freedom of expression and could potentially stifle youth-led movements and revenue streams.

Opposition to the bill seems to cross political lines since most younger voters are pro-technology and social media. Many right-leaning voters say that, although they are concerned about China spyware, the bill likely won’t accomplish its alleged aim.

This group has also shown interest in the stock market and cryptocurrency trading, with some referencing "TRUMP/SOL" on DEX Screener and others discussing trading cards and "Trump bucks." They also point out the hypocrisy in banning TikTok for data privacy issues while American tech companies are also known for collecting extensive user data.

Middle-Age Voters Are Cautiously Supportive

For the middle-aged demographic, reactions to the bill are more varied. This group is less likely to use TikTok, and their views tend to reflect their political leanings. Some agree with the bill, citing concerns over national security, privacy, and the influence of foreign companies.

There is certainly opposition, however, with some seeing the bill as an unnecessary restriction on a platform that provides an outlet for creativity and communication.

Many voters in the 35-50 demographic show cautious support for the bill. They emphasize the importance of restricting the Chinese Communist Party from accessing American data. They also point out that TikTok's parent company, ByteDance, is subject to Chinese law, which can compel companies to cooperate with intelligence services.

This group seems to worry about misuse of data both by foreign governments and American corporations. Many of them call for stricter regulations to protect user data in general. They express skepticism about the effectiveness of the bill in addressing digital spying, arguing for a more comprehensive approach to data protection.

Older Voters Are Primarily Concerned with Security

Voters older than 50, particularly those in the Boomer generation, largely support the bill. This demographic tends to be less familiar with TikTok and often views it mainly as a national security concern and cultural negative.

There are a few voices in favor of TikTok, espousing the benefits of the platform for their children or grandchildren. However, this group seems to be smaller than among other age groups.

Older voters who identify as conservatives or Trump supporters often view the bill as a necessary step to counter foreign influence and protect national security. Many of them view restricting biased platforms like TikTok as part of a larger battle against woke culture and left-leaning ideologies. A segment of this group is hopeful the bill can be utilized to counter restrictions and throttling against conservative voices on social media platforms.

However, not all Trump supporters are in favor of the bill. Some fear that it could lead to more extensive government control and censorship, potentially infringing on First Amendment rights. They argue that such decisions should be made by the public rather than the government.

Older Democrats express more skepticism about the bill. They view it as a potential tool for censorship and control, with some alleging that it could be used to manipulate the information landscape to the benefit of Trump or other conservative figures.

While the bill still needs to gain support in the Senate, it seems to be losing steam among voters. There are still supporters, but discourse seems to be largely negative, regardless of political affiliation.

American sentiment towards banning TikTok and President Trump's remarks about TikTok and Facebook reveals a deeply divided populace. The divide is largely along party and generational lines.

• Democrats generally express concerns about censorship and the restriction of freedom of expression, viewing the proposed ban as an overreach by the government.
• Republicans, on the other hand, largely support the proposed ban due to national security concerns. Many Trump supporters are skeptical that social media platforms try to restrict what users see and hear.
• Independents vary in their views, with some expressing concerns about data privacy while others worry about the impact on freedom of speech.

Age also plays a significant role in the conversation. Younger Americans, who make up a significant portion of TikTok users, are generally more opposed to the ban. Older Americans seem more supportive. Race and economic status, however, do not seem to play a significant role in the conversation, with views crossing racial and economic lines.

• President Biden on March 8th endorsed possible legislation that could lead to the popular video-sharing app TikTok being banned in the United States.
• Sentiment on Ideologies shows a split among political parties and respective leaders since the idea of banning TikTok has resurfaced.
• TikTok is expected to be most used/consumed social media platform in 2025 among U.S. adults.
  

Rebels Without a Cause

Former President Donald Trump's remarks about TikTok and Facebook evoked divided opinions. He posted on Truth Social, “If you get rid of TikTok, Facebook and Zuckerschmuck will double their business. I don't want Facebook, who cheated in the last Election, doing better. They are a true Enemy of the People!”

Many support his concerns about TikTok and Facebook's potential threats to national security and user privacy. Others see his comments as politically motivated and self-serving.

Democrats generally criticize Trump's comments as an attack on free speech and an attempt to control the narrative. Republicans largely agree with his criticisms of these platforms, fearing that social media only shows users what the platforms wants them to see.

Sentiment analysis shows mixed views on the potential Congressional legislation banning TikTok. Many Americans express skepticism and a general distrust towards politicians, irrespective of their stance on the issue.

Steven K. Nikoui is a Gold Star Father whose son was killed in Afghanistan. His arrest during President Joe Biden's State of the Union address has sparked significant controversy and debate. Nikoui was arrested for protesting Biden's handling of the Afghanistan withdrawal. Many view the arrest as an affront to Nikoui’s right to free speech and a blatant disregard for his personal loss.

The incident is even more contentious when contrasted with the lack of arrests during a pro-Palestine protest that blocked Joe Biden’s route to the SOTU. The protestors, who were demonstrating against the President's stance on Israel, were not apprehended. This lenience led to accusations of bias and unequal treatment. Critics argue that the difference in response is politically motivated, with the Biden administration showing tolerance towards protests that align with their political agenda while cracking down on those that do not.

The discourse regarding these two incidents has been polarized, with opinions largely divided along partisan lines. Biden supporters argue any comparisons between the two incidents are misguided. They attribute Nikoui's arrest to disruptive behavior during a highly important and sensitive occasion. They further contend that allowing the pro-Palestine protests was appropriate, given their peaceful nature and the protestors' right to free speech.

Critics argue the disparity in treatment between Nikoui and the Palestine protestors is a clear indication of the administration's selective enforcement of the law and disregard for the principles of free speech when it goes against their narrative.

Nikoui’s arrest also underscores the highly charged and divisive political environment in the U.S., with even a solemn occasion like the State of the Union becoming a hotbed for controversy and protest. This incident, along with the broader discourse it has inspired, is a stark reminder of the deep ideological divide that continues to characterize American politics.

The recent wave of layoffs and bankruptcies in the mainstream media has captured the attention of many online discussions. It's not only the media industry that has been affected, but also the political landscape and the perception of journalism among the public.

Democrats

Democrat voters tend to frame these layoffs as a result of corporate greed, arguing that large media conglomerates are prioritizing profits over quality journalism. They often point to the decline of local journalism as a significant loss for communities, arguing that these outlets play a vital role in keeping local governments accountable. They also emphasize the importance of journalism for a functioning democracy and often point to corporate greed, the rise of big tech, and the decline of traditional advertising revenues as key factors behind the layoffs.

Republicans

Republicans, in contrast, often refer to these layoffs as a consequence for what they perceive as liberal bias in the media. They argue that journalism has lost its way, with some citing the rise of “activist journalism” as a contributing factor undermining public trust. There is also a narrative among Republicans that media companies have failed to adapt to the digital age.

Independents

Independents tend to fall somewhere in between, with some echoing the Democrats' concerns about corporate greed and others agreeing with Republicans that perceived bias is driving consumers away. Many independents also express concern about the rise of "clickbait" journalism and the impact this is having on the quality of news coverage. Independents express a range of views, often reflecting concerns about both the loss of local news coverage and perceived media bias. They tend to focus on the need for media companies to adapt to the changing media landscape and explore new business models.

By The Numbers

Local Journalism vs Establishment Protector

The comparison between activist journalism and local journalism is also a topic of discussion. Some people commend activist journalism for its role in highlighting societal issues and advocating for change. However, others believe it compromises journalistic objectivity and blurs the line between reporting and advocacy. Local journalism, on the other hand, is widely appreciated for its role in community-building and its focus on local issues, but its decline due to financial struggles is a source of concern.

The perception of journalists as maintaining the status quo or the protecting establishment media varies among voters. Some believe that mainstream media perpetuates existing power structures by gatekeeping platforms for established voices, while others see journalists as watchdogs who hold the powerful accountable.

The Future and AI

Recent events throughout the industry have led to emerging conversations about technology and further potential biases.

A controversy surrounding Google's Gemini AI has elicited a variety of opinions. Some view it as a reflection of Silicon Valley's "woke” culture and an attempt to rewrite history, while others see it as a symptom of broader issues in AI development, like bias in training data.

The rumored release of Elon Musk's “Unwoke” search engine has been met with mixed reactions. Some see it as a potential alternative to platforms they perceive as suppressing free speech. Others raise concerns about the potential for further polarization and misinformation.

The idea of subsidies for journalism to save the industry has support and opposition. Some argue that government funding is necessary to preserve a vital industry in the face of economic challenges. Others worry about potential conflicts of interest and the threat to journalistic independence if the industry becomes reliant on government funding.