A conversation between Ana Kasparian and Jillian Michaels went viral, reaching nearly 50 million viewers. In the interview, The Young Turks host Kasparian shared about being molested by a homeless man in Los Angeles and how it reframed her thoughts about progressive governance.

NEW: The Young Turks producer Ana Kasparian says she left the Democratic party after she was mol*sted by a homeless man with an er*ction in Los Angeles.

Kasparian said she was shamed by liberals for stating that she felt fearful to leave her house after the incident.

Kasparian… pic.twitter.com/R1Ds980urO

— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) October 12, 2024

Discourse about the story highlights political divisions, particularly around personal trauma, political ideologies, and public policy. Kasparian’s experience became a lightning rod for discussions about progressive activism and societal tensions about crime, safety, and homelessness.

Empathy Rooted in Realism

A prominent theme in reactions to Kasparian’s comments is tension between personal trauma and political ideology. Kasparian’s fear and emotional response following the assault resonates with many concerned about safety in urban environments.

Women especially empathize with her fear, viewing it as a legitimate response to danger and a reflection of their own experiences with personal safety. However, their empathy is counterbalanced by pushback from liberal voices who say her expressions of fear are harmful to progressive causes.

For liberals, acknowledging the danger posed by homelessness conflicts with efforts to protect and advocate for vulnerable populations. This divide contrasts personal stories about safety with an ideological commitment to systemic social justice—an idea which avowed leftist Kasparian says she is coming to reassess.

Liberals Shutting the Overton Window

Americans also discuss the role of gender and political identity when reacting to Kasparian’s story. Many women and conservatives align with her experience and validate her fears. But liberal commentators, particularly men, downplay her concerns or criticize her for perpetuating harmful stereotypes.

This dynamic suggests an internal conflict within progressive circles, where expressions of fear—particularly by women—are sometimes dismissed in favor of ideology or activism. Kasparian’s experience exposes a cultural struggle to reconcile vulnerability with ideological commitments. There seems to be a blind spot in how some progressives address personal trauma.

Circling Back to Liberal Governance

Kasparian’s testimony also reignites debates about crime, homelessness, and public policy. For conservatives, her experience reiterates the need for stricter law enforcement and urban policy reforms, particularly blue cities like Los Angeles.

Many conservatives frame her story as an example of the failures of liberal policies in managing homelessness and crime. They want tougher policing and more punitive measures.

Liberals and progressives argue for systemic solutions, framing the issue as one of societal failure rather than individual accountability. This clash between pragmatic safety concerns and broader systemic reform reveals ideological differences about how to address urban decay and public safety.

On October 11, a cargo train robbery in Chicago sparked significant online discussion, with many concerns emerging, from public safety to economic stability and governance. The discussions intertwine layered responses that highlight growing anxiety, frustration, and polarization in American communities.

🚨#BREAKING: Dozens of people are actively looting and breaking into a cargo train ⁰⁰📌#Chicago | #illinois⁰⁰At this time, an estimated 50 to 150 people or more are actively looting and breaking into a cargo train on the west side of Chicago, Illinois. Police have been… pic.twitter.com/SwDIOnSE90

— R A W S A L E R T S (@rawsalerts) October 11, 2024

Cities Aren’t Safe

Public safety is a top discussion theme with 60-65% of reactions across different demographic groups reflecting negative sentiment.

Americans view the robbery as emblematic of rising crime in urban environments. This exacerbates fears about the breakdown of law and order. Many commenters link the event to overall urban violence and decline. There are heightened feelings of vulnerability, particularly among older populations and those living in urban areas. Americans insist on the need for increased vigilance in the wake of the robbery, with some saying they are altering their daily routines in response to the incident.

Political Problems

Political accountability is another dominant topic, with around 60% of comments expressing criticism of local and national leaders for failing to uphold community safety.

Voters blame politicians, particularly those aligned with liberal policies, accusing them of failing to address crime effectively. This sentiment is particularly pronounced among conservative voices and those advocating for law-and-order. Progressives focus on systemic factors, citing economic inequality and the need for community investment, rather than punitive measures following incidents like this.

Top Issues for Urban Americans

Economic Factors

Around 40-50% of comments express economic anxiety, with some linking crime to inequality and some fearing long-term repercussions for local economics.

The economic impact of the robbery is a significant concern, especially regarding how crime affects businesses and the local economy. Discussions about the robbery frequently mention the destabilizing effects of organized crime on small businesses, the logistics industry, and local commerce. Reform vs Reckoning

Some advocate for increased law enforcement and harsher penalties. Others call for systemic reforms to address poverty and inequality. This polarization is greater among urban residents who express more anxiety than their suburban counterparts.

We The People, Can’t

In addition to concerns about safety and governance, many point to growing distrust in government and law enforcement ability to handle crime effectively. Roughly 70% of commenters express frustration with ineffective policies. Many say these policies prioritize political agendas over community safety. This frustration feeds into disillusionment with institutions, spurring demands for systemic change.

Overall, Americans talk of a fractured society grappling with questions about security, governance, and justice. The robbery, while a singular event, has become a focal point exemplifying anxieties about the future of urban life in America. Voters want accountability, demanding politicians and law enforcement officials take decisive action to restore trust and security.

A viral post on X discussing the state of decay across many elements in American life received more than 46 million views. The commentary on American life, which some call a “competency crisis,” resonates with people across the country.

I'M SHOCKED.

After living in Japan for over two years, I recently visited the USA with my wife. It made me realize that the USA is dysfunctional in so many ways and has such a low-quality standard across the board.

Here are the things I noticed:

— Nathan Lands — Lore.com (@NathanLands) October 11, 2024

MIG Reports analysis shows Americans are grappling with perceptions of systemic dysfunction, institutional failure, and declining competence. Discussions reveal embedded anxieties about leadership, governance, and the future of the country.

Public sentiment on topics like efficiency, service degradation, and operational decline includes distrust, frustration, and a desire for more effective leadership.

Distrust in Government

Across multiple crises, the common thread of distrust in government dominates American discussions. There is perceived inefficiency in economic management and government failure to address key national concerns. Many Americans express profound skepticism toward leadership.

• In discussions about the "efficiency crisis," 34% of comments highlight a lack of faith in political leaders from both major parties. Many view government actions as ineffectual or disingenuous.
• In discussions about “institutional failure" 78% of Americans are frustrated with current leadership, particularly regarding rising living costs and the government's inability to manage public resources effectively.
• Distrust extends to concerns over “systemic dysfunction,” where 60% say governmental institutions are either corrupt or incompetent.
• The pervasive lack of confidence in leadership underlines a broader societal shift where citizens feel increasingly disconnected from their representatives.

Economic Hardship and Anxiety

Economic concerns feature prominently in discussions about institutional failure, service degradation, and operational decline. Many Americans directly attribute economic instability to government mismanagement, particularly regarding rising living costs and inadequate disaster responses.

• In discussions about "Institutional Failure," 70% of comments cite economic hardship as a direct result of government policies. Most people feel the government's reported economic successes, such as low unemployment, do not match reality.
• In discussions about “service degradation,” 22% emphasize economic anxiety as a key concern. People mention fears of a "1929-style depression."
• In discussions about "operational decline," 45% focus on the increasing cost of living, feeding resentment toward political elites.

Polarization and Disillusionment

Political polarization and disillusionment are central to the discourse on governance and systemic decline. Many Americans feel the country is more divided than ever, with the discourse about leadership featuring an "us versus them" mentality.

• In discussions of “systemic dysfunction,” 35% of comments reflect the growing political divide. Many view those with opposing political views as a threat to societal stability.
• In discussions about the "competency crisis," 40% express frustration with the two-party political system. People accuse Democrats and Republicans of failing to address the needs of ordinary Americans.
• “Distrust in institutions” is high, with 50% questioning the integrity of political leaders. Some discuss the belief that elections are rigged or manipulated.
• Disillusionment with the political process fosters a climate of cynicism, where many Americans feel neither party offers meaningful solutions to the country's problems.

Desire for Leadership and Accountability

Amidst the frustration and disillusionment, there is a clear desire for strong, effective leadership to address crises.

• 28% say they hope for progressive leadership, particularly from Kamala Harris, who they believe can advocate for marginalized communities.
• 75% want assertive leadership that can implement decisive and strong actions to resolve national crises.
• Among both groups, there is a consistent call for accountability in leadership.
• Around half of the discussion expresses urgency for political change, emphasizing the need for citizens to vote to prevent future failures.

Emotional and Social Impacts

Americans are not just concerned with governmental inefficiencies—they are emotionally affected by the perceived failures of their leaders.

• Discussions about “service degradation” show 32% are disappointed in leadership, particularly over inadequate responses to natural disasters like Hurricane Helene.
• Many feel the government's inability to meet their needs has led to widespread social division.
• People feel emotional strain, expressing fear about safety, financial stability, and the future of the country.
• This emotional toll is compounded by a sense of isolation, as people notice social divisions are deepening, with neighbors turning against each other based on political beliefs.
• Despite this, there is also an undercurrent of resilience, emphasizing the importance of community solidarity in overcoming institutional failures.

A recent video of assault on former New York Governor David Paterson and his stepson has ignited conversations about safety, crime, and political accountability. Discussions reveal societal concerns about urban violence, the vulnerability of public figures, and systemic issues tied to race and governance.

Video has been released showing former New York Gov. David Paterson, who is blind, being beaten with his stepson in Manhattan: pic.twitter.com/DKISbohRWg https://t.co/xHX7tx9sch

— Andy Ngo 🏳️‍🌈 (@MrAndyNgo) October 9, 2024

MIG Reports analysis shows Democratic and Republican reactions, while both focused on the event’s implications, diverge in their framing of the underlying causes and necessary responses.

Patterson Beaten

The assault on Paterson prompted voter discussions spanning concerns over public safety to critiques of political leadership.

• 70% of discussions express fear about rising urban violence.
• 55% advocate for accountability and systemic reform.
• Overall sentiment expresses urgency for change, but there is also skepticism about the efficacy of law enforcement.

There is a wide spectrum of emotional responses, with many framing the assault as part of a broader societal trend of instability and inequality.

Democrat Viewpoints

The Democratic narrative emphasizes racial justice and systemic reform. For many, the assault on Paterson—a prominent African American leader—is framed as part of ongoing struggles against racial violence and systemic inequalities.

• 75% of discussions among Democrats express outrage over the incident, calling for immediate legislative changes and reforms to address these systemic issues.
• Conversations highlight solidarity with marginalized communities, focusing on the disproportionate impact of urban violence on minorities.
• The language uses a tone of urgency, with frequent calls for justice and reform and a focus on systemic change.

Republican Viewpoints

Republicans focus more on crime rates and government accountability. They view the assault as part of larger concerns about the safety of public figures and the failure of local governments to address urban crime effectively.

• 62% of Republican conversations mention concerns about public safety and the lack of effective law enforcement.
• There is fear and frustration, but emphasis is on individual accountability and critiques of leadership.
• Around 9% of Republicans are indifferent, viewing the assault as an isolated incident rather than indicative of systemic issues.

Differences in Linguistic Patterns and Sentiment

There are also linguistic differences between political viewpoints. Democrats emphasize reform-oriented language, frequently using phrases like “enough is enough” and hashtags like #JusticeForPaterson. This language calls for systemic change and structural reforms to address both violence and inequality.

Republicans more often use language of fear and nostalgia. Older demographics in particular reminisce about safer times and express fear over current urban crime trends. The Republican focus on law enforcement and individual safety rather than larger societal critiques.

A recent declaration by the National Health Institute (NIH) admitted fluoride exposure reduces children’s IQ, sparking public discussion. MIG Reports analysis shows concern over the health risks associated with fluoride, while skepticism regarding the findings also shapes the conversation. Though a smaller group is outright dismissive of the NIH’s conclusions, reactions generally reveal societal anxieties about health and institutional trust.

The government put fluoride in our water and attacked anyone who questioned it.

Now - the NIH (after major pressure) has declared it “reduces the IQ of children” and is “hazardous to human health” - and states are removing it from water.

This is under-covered news.

— Calley Means (@calleymeans) October 8, 2024

What Americans are Saying

MIG Reports data shows:

• 47.5% of the conversation centers on health concerns, with alarm about the implications of fluoride exposure on children’s cognitive development.

Worried Americans use emotional language, often referring to fluoride as a threat which experts and leaders have hidden. Voters emphasize the need for increased transparency and a reevaluation of the water supply, tying their concerns to broader distrust in governmental health institutions.

• 12.5% supports raising awareness about the potential dangers of fluoride exposure.

These voices urge further research and advocacy, pushing for policy changes, perhaps under the guidance of RFK Jr. in a second Trump administration—to protect children’s health. They emphasize a proactive approach, seeing this as an opportunity to address long-standing concerns about fluoride and promoting alternative measures for MAHA (make America healthy again).

• 30% of the discussion voices skepticism of the research itself.

This group questions the reliability of the NIH’s findings, with many suggesting the announcement may be politically motivated or part of a larger agenda. The language in these comments often references past public health controversies, such as vaccines. They say the fluoride debate fits into a broader narrative of eroding trust in scientific and government authorities.

• 10% of the commentary is dismissive of the revelation.

Uninterested voters either downplay the significance of the findings or outright reject them as sensationalism. They frame the NIH’s declaration as exaggerated, saying the risks of fluoride have been overstated for attention or ulterior motives.

American reactions to the federal government’s disaster response after Hurricane Helene continues to be sharply negative. Now, with Hurricane Milton destruction, opinions of VP Harris and DHS Secretary Mayorkas are overwhelmingly negative. Voters distaste for their leadership, disaster preparedness, and resource allocation.

Many are criticizing Mayorkas for his unwillingness to respond to criticisms that he was attending an award ceremony while natural disasters were ongoing for citizens.

Mayorkas put on the spot 💥

CNN host: As Hurricane Helene was making landfall, Biden was at the beach, Kamala was flying between ritzy California fundraisers, and you were at an awards ceremony in Los Angeles. How do you respond to these allegations?pic.twitter.com/eJB1O6uNsb

— Defiant L’s (@DefiantLs) October 9, 2024

There are also reports criticizing Mayorkas, Biden, and Harris for shopping, lounging on the beach, and toasting a beer on The Late Show amid serious safety threats and destruction after Helene and before Milton

This is where your President, Vice President, and DHS Secretary were as Americans were drowning from Hurricane Helene & fleeing for their lives from Hurricane Milton. pic.twitter.com/sg8nqzLnfN

— Trump War Room (@TrumpWarRoom) October 9, 2024

What Voters are Saying

• 77% of voters voice strong negative sentiment toward leadership and their response to disaster relief.
• 90% of Republicans drive the discussion, expressing negativity about disaster response and preparedness.
• 81% express dissatisfaction with Mayorkas, often calling him incompetent.
• There is widespread frustration regarding FEMA funds and resources being directed toward illegal immigrants.
• Americans make accusations negligence and callous responses to disaster recovery efforts.
• Many also voice distrust in media reporting and election impacts for voters in disaster zones.

Political Criticism

Public sentiment about federal leadership during natural disasters is highly polarized. Discussions heavily focus on accusations that the current administration has mismanaged disaster recovery efforts. There is frustration among citizens who feel the federal response has been both inadequate and insulting.

Many directly compare the actions of the Biden administration unfavorably to those of previous leadership, particularly former President Trump, and express a desire for a change in leadership.

Mayorkas Incompetence

Americans are harsh in discussions about Secretary Mayorkas. They criticize his actions and decisions regarding FEMA and disaster relief but do not limit their criticism, also mentioning his failures on border security.

People describe Mayorkas’s leadership as "criminally incompetent," with public outcry calling for accountability by his impeachment or resignation. This criticism is exacerbated by reports that FEMA has billions in unspent disaster relief funds, despite his public claims of shortages.

This topic has resonated strongly with 80% of working-class voices, particularly those already burdened by economic hardships who feel neglected by federal aid. The language used in these discussions—terms like "betrayal" and "dishonesty"—illustrates a profound sense of abandonment by the government during times of crisis.

Mismanaged Funds and Negligence

Discussions around funding accuse FEMA of negligence and even animosity toward natural disaster victims. People criticize the federal government for its failure to help citizens, preferring to focus on “misinformation” and the comfort of FEMA workers.

Despite obstructing relief efforts, @FEMA’s Criswell says criticizing her agency is “dangerous”:

“It has a tremendous impact on the comfort level of our own employees … When you have this dangerous rhetoric like you’re hearing, it creates fear in our own employees” pic.twitter.com/ProJObu7fc

— Tom Elliott (@tomselliott) October 6, 2024

Funding discussions are saturated with criticism of FEMA for directing resources towards illegal immigrants at the expense of disaster preparedness. These criticisms are particularly poignant among rural residents, who feel that disaster recovery resources are disproportionately directed toward urban areas. They feel they’re being left to fend for themselves.

The entire Chicago Public Schools (CPS) Board of Education resigned, triggering a wide array of emotional and analytical responses. Parents, educators, and political commentators are weighing in on the controversial move involving widely criticized Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson. This event reveals frustrations about educational governance and catalyzes new discussions about the future of public schooling in Chicago.

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson just compared the School Board he just forced out because they refused to blow out the budget by taking out a high interest loan to pay off the Teacher's union, to slave owners. He only has 1 trick which is call EVERYONE who disagrees with him RACIST pic.twitter.com/KBX6yNYf69

— Sean Fitzgerald (Actual Justice Warrior) (@IamSean90) October 7, 2024

Johnson appointed six new school board members after the entire board resigned amid budget disputes and tensions with the Chicago Teachers Union (CTU). The resignations followed disagreements over handling CPS finances, particularly regarding loans and pensions.

The appointments raise concerns about transparency and political influence. Critics argue replacing the entire school board was hasty, potentially sidelining voices that disagree with the union's stance. The timing, just before elections, adds to the frustration, with some city leaders feeling left out of the decision-making process and questioning the board's ability to handle financial and policy challenges.

Voter Reactions

Positive Sentiment (40%)

Parents and community members view the resignations as an opportunity for change, expressing hope for new leadership that might prioritize student needs over bureaucracy. Many articulate the desire for more accountability, with some suggesting a fresh board might be more attuned to the realities faced by students and families.

Negative Sentiment (35%)

Almost as many people voice skepticism and concern. Critics see the mass resignation as an indicator of dysfunction within the CPS and the Teacher’s Union. Phrases like “abandonment” and “lack of responsibility” permeate discussions, reflecting fears that this departure creates a leadership vacuum or suggests corruption among leaders.

Neutral or Analytical Sentiment (25%)

A quarter of reactions take a more analytical stance, focusing on systemic issues that led to the resignations. Commentary highlights the challenges of governance in the CPS landscape, including the interplay between state mandates, funding deficits, and societal pressures. This narrative suggests a need for comprehensive reform beyond personnel changes.

Impact on Parents

Disruption of Trust

A significant number of parents express feelings of betrayal and uncertainty. Parents have concerns about whether ongoing reforms and standard educational practices will suffer due to the instability following the resignations.

Desire for Engagement

Amid the upheaval, many parents actively seek information about the implications of the resignations for their children’s education. Parents rally around the call for greater community engagement in selecting new board members, signifying a shift toward more grassroots involvement in educational governance.

Anxiety About the Future

Uncertainty about future governance prompts feelings of anxiety and distrust among parents. Many worry about the potential for diminished support services and resources for students, especially those with special needs or underserved communities.

Language Patterns

Imagery of Battle

Many comments evoke a sense of struggle, with language that portrays the resignation as a battle between effective governance and an educational system under siege. Terms like “fighting for our kids,” “standing firm,” and “taking back control” express

the urgent calls for advocacy and accountability.

Crisis Narrative

Some frame the situation as a crisis, suggesting a breakdown in the system. This includes references to broader societal issues, such as educational inequity and funding challenges. People link the resignations to national educational trends rather than isolating them to Chicago.

Polarization of Educational Perspectives

People are divided about educational priorities. Some advocate for radical reforms and a reevaluation of funding sources, while others emphasize the need to maintain the integrity and stability of existing programs.

Calls for Unity

Despite divergent opinions, a recurring theme urges community solidarity and collective action. Many advocate for collaboration among parents, educators, and local organizations, perceiving a shared responsibility toward improving the educational landscape.

Public sentiment on cartel-related issues in the United States is negative. As Americans grapple with the rising impact of cartel activities, including drug and human trafficking and gang activity, there is increasing tension between those advocating for a strong executive approach and those who still value traditional governance with checks and balances.

This analysis explores American sentiments regarding which form of leadership people see as most effective in addressing the perceived threats. Analysis also looks at how language—particularly the contrast between first-person and third-person usage—reflects the depth of personal investment in the problem and the expectation for leadership to deliver solutions.

MIG Reports data shows:

• 70% of Americans want a strong executive approach
• 25% want traditional governance to put protections in place
• 5% are ambivalent or resistant to addressing cartels

Strong Executive Approach

The 70% who want strong executive action express frustration with current government policies. They want strong, unilateral executive action similar to Donald Trump’s policies. These voters view the threats posed by cartels and immigration as immediate and urgent, requiring decisive leadership.

Traditional Governance

The 25% who favor a more traditional approach emphasize the need for bipartisan solutions. They seek full-scale immigration reform rather than over-reliance on executive power. This group would rather see it done procedurally than imminently.

Ambivalent or Resistant Sentiment

The minority who voice skepticism toward both executive overreach and traditional governance was genuine reform without partisan bias.

Issues Shaping Sentiment

Cartel Activities

Drug trafficking, violent crime, and human trafficking—including child trafficking—are recurring themes fueling public concern. The discourse often links cartel activities directly to the border crisis, which intensifies calls for stronger leadership and enforcement.

Fear and Urgency

Many Americans fear the consequences of Biden-Harris immigration policies, particularly rising crimes committed by illegal immigrants and the fentanyl epidemic. These fears drive the call for immediate and decisive executive action.

Perceived Government Failure

Public frustration largely stems from a belief that Biden and Harris prioritize political agendas over public safety and security. The perceived failure of traditional bipartisan methods, as well as policies like "Catch and Release," contribute to the urgency for stronger governance.

Language Analysis

First-Person Language: Problem Focus

When discussing the impact of cartel activities and border security, many Americans use first-person language. This reveals their personal investment in the issue. Statements like “We know this visit is just a political sham” and “I don’t feel safe,” suggest many are directly affected by the rise in crime, drug trafficking, and immigration failures.

The use of first-person language highlights the personal and emotional connection Americans feel regarding immigration. Many perceive cartel activities as a direct threat to their safety, families, and communities.

Urgency and Fear

First-person language amplifies the urgency of the problem, with emotional tones of fear, anger, and frustration dominating discussions. These emotions are particularly linked to alarming statistics such as fentanyl overdoses and crimes attributed to illegal immigrants.

Third-Person Language

Conversely, when Americans discuss solutions, they shift to third-person language, placing the responsibility on political leaders and government officials to act.

Detachment and Delegation

By using third-person language, voters place responsibility on political figures. Statements like “Kamala Harris is responsible for the illegal alien invasion” or “The government needs to step up” illustrate a belief that politicians are the ones who should resolve the crisis, since it’s their job.

Accountability and Criticism

This shift in language is often accompanied by criticism of current leadership. Public disappointment with figures like Kamala Harris and Joe Biden reflects a widespread sense that they have failed to address the border and immigration issues adequately. The use of third-person language to express frustration shows how the public holds these leaders accountable for the ongoing crisis.

Hurricane Helene fallout is still ongoing as recovery and rescue efforts have not stopped a week later. The American public is becoming more explicitly angry with the federal government's response including Joe Biden, Kamala Harris, Alejandro Mayorkas, and FEMA.

The ongoing recovery efforts reveal a troubling narrative about priorities and leadership that may carry significant implications for Americans across the country. Locals on the ground and civilian rescue and aid teams are sharing widespread reports that federal rescue efforts are absent, and FEMA agents are blocking or confiscating civilian efforts.

Just received this note from a SpaceX engineer helping on the ground in North Carolina. @FEMA is not merely failing to adequately help people in trouble, but is actively blocking citizens who try to help!

“Hey Elon, update here on site of Asheville, NC. We have powered up two…

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) October 4, 2024

In spite of multiple accounts of government hinderance from many on-the-ground sources including influential figures like Elon Musk and Glenn Beck, FEMA and Red Cross are warning citizens about “misinformation” on social media, drawing even more backlash.

There has been a lot of rumors spreading about the #Helene response.

Rumors can create confusion & prevent people from getting assistance they need. Help us share accurate information: https://t.co/Z5vxuBTths pic.twitter.com/U3DCtmC1LN

— FEMA (@fema) October 3, 2024

Recovery Efforts are Civilian

Local communities are working tirelessly to begin the long road of recovery from Helene’s destruction. On-the-ground reporting indicates many residents are still stranded due to roads being completely washed away. Many still lack necessities like food, water, clothes, and sanitation. First responders, local agencies, and volunteers are laboring around the clock to restore order and deliver aid, using helicopters, mules, goats, ATVs, boats, and going on foot.

Many are speaking up about the horrific failure of federal response, which they describe as nearly nonexistent. There are also reports that FEMA whistleblowers are sounding the alarm on stand-down orders and lack of deployment.

BREAKING: FEMA whistleblowers have come forward alleging that the agency misappropriated funds in the wake of Helene, withheld pre-disaster aid, and that first responders and service members have been waiting in hotels without deployment orders. pic.twitter.com/uf0XrspRTz

— Greg Price (@greg_price11) October 4, 2024

Civilian rescue operations being shut down also anger many Americans who watch in horror as friends and neighbors face the most devastating loss of their lives. A viral report of a civilian helicopter pilot being threatened with arrest if he continued to rescue people from inaccessible areas is drawing criticism.

𝐔𝐏𝐃𝐀𝐓𝐄 𝐈𝐍 𝐖𝐄𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐍 𝐍𝐂: Remember the 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐨𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐩𝐢𝐥𝐨𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐭𝐨𝐥𝐝 𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐛𝐞 𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐝 if he continued to do rescues in Western NC? 𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐰𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐰𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐡𝐮𝐬𝐛𝐚𝐧𝐝?… pic.twitter.com/0WiUVDog1n

— NONBidenary (@KellyLMcCarty) October 4, 2024

Voter Reactions to Government Failures

MIG Reports data shows:

• 70% of Americans believe the federal response has been laughable and that damage from the hurricane is underreported by officials and the media.
• 62% are outraged about FEMA funds being given to illegal immigrants instead of American hurricane victims.
• 52% criticize Biden and Harris’s leadership during the hurricane as offensive and lacking urgency.
• 55% say lawmakers should be held accountable for voting against supplemental disaster aid for FEMA and more foreign aid.
• 65% believe the government prioritizes illegal immigrants over Americans.

The backlash against the Biden-Harris administration is palpable, especially concerning FEMA and Alejandro Mayorkas. Many express feelings of anger, betrayal, and disillusionment. Any positivity in these discussions is directed toward local and civilian efforts to help friends and neighbors.

Disillusionment, Anger, and Betrayal

Americans feel betrayed by a government they believe is actively working to thwart recovery. Reports that the federal government has spent more than $1 billion on shelter for illegal immigrants is causing American fury. The insult is compounded by Kamala Harris and Joe Biden announcing Hurricane Helene victims could receive up to $750 in aid.

Kamala is on the ground in Georgia two days after President Trump’s visit to offer those who’ve lost everything $750. Don’t spend it all at once.

If you were Ukrainian or a migrant you’d qualify for more assistance, but you’re just an American citizen, so don’t expect much. pic.twitter.com/9zT8VPS1SB

— Bad Hombre (@joma_gc) October 2, 2024

The anger is bolstered by a series of public comments and events from government officials which feel like a slap in the face to Americans. The feelings of betrayal and anger are widespread, fostering a growing rift between the public and their leaders.

On October 3, in the midst of ongoing recovery efforts, Kamala Harris posted photos of a campaign event with Liz Cheney with the tag line “Country Over Party.” Many voters sarcastically replied that the event was celebrating the country being over.

Country over party. pic.twitter.com/7A4SltBhUN

— Kamala Harris (@KamalaHarris) October 4, 2024

Voter reactions reveal a pervasive belief that American citizens are being overlooked in favor of illegal immigrants. The cries of frustration about government spending priorities resonate deeply across the country. Many also highlight a broader concern about the incompetence, negligence, and event hostility of the federal government.

Implications for the 2024 Election

The anger and frustration about Hurricane Helene may galvanize voters who feel ignored and persecuted by the government. However, many also express concern about Americans in severely impacted areas being able to vote at all.

Anger toward FEMA also includes accusations of optics management and photo ops while government workers sit on their hands. DHS Secretary Mayorkas’s announcement that FEMA likely doesn’t have enough money to make it through hurricane season also generated widespread backlash, with many pointing out his statement from just months again claiming FEMA was "tremendously prepared."

.@FEMA is focused on ensuring #Helene survivors get the assistance they need. I'm overseeing the NC response efforts among our local, state, tribal, & federal partners. The path to recovery is challenging, but it's possible & we'll be with these communities every step of the way. pic.twitter.com/dr6iNLlkvf

— Deanne Criswell (@FEMA_Deanne) October 3, 2024

A final slap in the face to Americans suffering from the devastation of Hurricane Helene came in a clip of Joe Biden completely forgetting about the storm. When asked what victims in the storm zones need, Biden said, “They’re getting everything they need. They’re happy, across the board.”

HOLY SH*T!

REPORTER: “What do the states in the storm zone need after what you saw today?”

BIDEN CONFUSE: “Oh, the storm zone. I'm with what storm they're talking about.” pic.twitter.com/cEprvVJxek

— I Meme Therefore I Am 🇺🇸 (@ImMeme0) October 3, 2024