inflation Articles
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Energy prices continue to rise, and American families are struggling to afford basics like air conditioning and washing machines. In California, many are giving personal testimonies of monthly electric bills over $1,800. This, many voters say, is unsustainable and cripplingly expensive. Some share stories of turning off appliances to make ends meet.
this is my friend's bill in san francisco
— Jenny, Girl from 4th 🌍, 鄰白廢物 🧠🪱 (@JennyChachan) October 22, 2024
this is what happens when you vote democrat https://t.co/nrRR24GOU2 pic.twitter.com/f3kqrJoxTKVoters are frustrated with government failures and misguided energy policies. They say it’s time for a leader who prioritizes economic reality over environmental idealism. The Biden-Harris administration, and specifically VP Harris, are central to the debate. Voters in California and across the country blame her governance strategies for the cost of energy and overall living expenses.
PG&E and Sky-High Utility Costs
A major part of the discussion about energy costs is directed at Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) and other utility companies. Voters across the political spectrum are dissatisfied with PG&E’s rate hikes, accusing the company of greed and poor management.
Voter Reactions
- 65% of the discussion is among middle-income voters who say rising utility prices directly impact their household budgets.
- 25% of the discussion is among lower-income voters who cannot afford energy bills and other necessities. Some say they must choose between food and power.
- Higher-income voters, while more tolerant of short-term price increases, also criticize the strain. They often defend renewable energy alternatives but still call for immediate economic intervention.
Americans urgently want regulatory reforms and corporate accountability. There's a very loud contingent demanding deregulation in the energy industry. Republican voters particularly argue that government intervention is exacerbating the situation, stifling competition, and allowing monopolies like PG&E to thrive without checks.
Political Ramifications from Energy
Voters are saying they will align themselves with candidates who promise economic relief and energy independence. The first Trump administration is often nostalgically cited as a time of lower energy prices and economic prosperity. Voters are frustrated by the lack of clear, actionable plans from Harris, saying they don’t trust her to “turn the page” on policy.
Voter Alignment
- Democratic Voters: 70% advocate for government intervention in energy pricing but express frustration at the inefficacy of current efforts.
- Republican Voters: 60% believe deregulation and free-market competition will lower energy prices, viewing Democratic policies as economically harmful.
- Independent Voters: 65% are anxious about rising energy costs and want pragmatic political solutions, regardless of party affiliation.
Environmental Idealism vs. Economic Realism
Criticism toward the Biden-Harris administration's energy policies often focuses on renewable energy. People criticize policies that prioritize environmentalism at the expense of practical economic concerns.
Voters say political leaders and those in urban areas are disconnected from the realities facing rural and middle-class Americans who depend on affordable energy.
Voter Sentiments
- Rural voters are angry at the focus on environmental idealism, which ignores the economic struggle of working families.
- Around 50% of voters discussing energy are skeptical of renewable energy transitions, particularly in states like California, where prices have skyrocketed.
- Critics use terms like “death cult” to describe the administration's environmentalist push for renewable energy.
Drill Baby, Drill
Within energy discussions, some voters criticize Harris’s flip-flopping stance on fracking. The lack of clarity around her advocacy or opposition generates skepticism and critique. Voters in areas with high energy costs are not convinced of her commitment to maintaining jobs in the fossil fuel industry.
For regions dependent on oil and gas, such as Pennsylvania, voters are keenly aware of the risks posed by restrictive policies. As some voters put it, “You will lose your jobs,” if fracking is banned. Others stress rising energy prices will worsen economic strain.
Voter Reactions
- 65% of comments from middle-income voters are concerned about the strain of utility bills on household finances.
- Voters view Harris’s inconsistent stance on fracking as a threat to jobs in oil and gas-rich regions, as well as the cost of energy overall.
- In oil-dependent regions, voters connect fracking bans with immediate economic hardships.
The economic implications of banning or restricting fracking are clear to voters who see fossil fuels as a bridge to energy independence. For them, Harris’s ambiguity on the issue is a slap in the face to their livelihoods and economic stability.
25
Oct
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Inflation is holding strong as a defining economic issue for voters in 2024. Since Biden and Harris took office, reports show consumer prices have risen more than 20%. Americans feel very little hope for relief if trends continue. Online discussions show strong dissatisfaction among all voters, though with some partisan disagreements about who is at fault.
If you made $100,000 a year when Biden-Harris took office...
— John LeFevre (@JohnLeFevre) October 10, 2024
Congratulations, you now make $83,000 a year.
Vote accordingly. pic.twitter.com/WAV2dI7m47MIG Reports analysis shows:
- 64% of overall voters blame Biden and Harris for the current economy.
- 72% of Americans are unhappy with current wages relative to the cost of living.
- 59% express feelings of financial helplessness due to rising costs.
Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data justifies the negative sentiment Americans express with Consumer Price Index (CPI) trends during the Biden-Harris administration:
- The cost of All Items rose 21% from 2020 to today.
- Food at Home surged 25%.
- Medical Care costs have risen 10%.
- Rent for Urban Consumers rose 24.8% during the current administration.
Americans feel inflation as more than a statistic—they feel it as a daily reality. Discussions on social media overwhelmingly focus on the struggle to cover basic needs like groceries, housing, and healthcare. This is where 72% of voters express dissatisfaction with wage levels relative to inflation. Conservatives are often most vocal, viewing inflation as a consequence of Biden-Harris economic policies.
Wages Aren’t Keeping Up
The mismatch between rising prices and stagnant wages is further driving voter frustration. While the government reports nominal wage gains, increases are swiftly negated by inflation. Bureau of Labor Statistics data shows median weekly wages reached $1,151 this year. However, when adjusted for inflation, purchasing power is equivalent to just $946 in 2020 dollars. This gap between nominal and real wages highlights the tangible quality of life strains Americans feel.
MIG Reports data shows:
- 48% of economic discussions mention wage stagnation.
- 60% are skeptical of government statistics on job growth and wages.
Many Americans feel they’re being lied to about the state of the economy—though this sentiment is more common among Republicans. Voters say the so-called wage increases mean nothing when they cannot afford the same expenses they did four years ago.
Partisan Political Blame
Overall, Americans are unhappy about the economy. Most blame the Biden-Harris administration for rising inflationary pressures, but there are partisan divides. Sentiment is strongest among Republicans with 84% blaming Biden-Harris as the primary source of economic hardship.
Republicans
Inflation and the economy are top issues for Republicans, along with border security.
- Economic Mismanagement: Republicans view Democratic policies, particularly the American Rescue Plan and Inflation Reduction Act, as directly fueling inflation. They believe these measures injected too much money into the economy, benefiting government and corporate interests at the expense of citizens.
- Support for Trump: 85% of Republican voters intend to vote for Trump, saying his policies manage economic issues more effectively. They often cite pre-COVID quality of life, calling for “America First” policies that reduce government spending.
- Distrust of Government: 55% of Republicans are skeptical that a Harris administration would implement any substantial policy changes. They view the government’s attempts to combat inflation as ineffective or exacerbating.
The dominant tone among Republicans is one of anger and distrust, with many voters convinced that a change in leadership is the only way to address the rising cost of living.
Democrats
Many Democratic voters defend Biden’s economic policies, citing wage growth and job creation, though some acknowledge the ongoing challenges of rising costs.
- Economic Optimism: 25% of Democratic voters highlight Biden-Harris efforts to address inflation, pointing to initiatives like the Inflation Reduction Act and the American Rescue Plan as positive steps. They say inflation is now under control.
- Blaming Trump: 60% blame inflation on Trump’s legacy, specifically citing his tax policies, trade wars, and COVID-19 policies. They view Biden and Harris as working to fix problems inherited from Trump, not creating new ones.
- Frustration Over Jobs: However, 15% are skeptical about whether Biden-Harris initiatives will make lasting improvements. They acknowledge positive job reports but worry about wage growth. Tim Walz in particular is facing state-level criticism for perceived mismanagement.
The Democratic voter base is split between those who defend the administration and those who are frustrated by inflation and stagnating wages. The largest theme is defensiveness, as many say the highest priority is preventing a second Trump term.
Independents
Discussion among Independents is low, but most express disillusionment with both political parties. Many directly blame Democrats, but there is not loss of criticism for Trump as well.
- Economic Frustration: 62% focus on rising costs of living and the strain of inflation on average American families. There is urgency and a call for immediate action to slow skyrocketing prices.
- Kamala Blame: Many Independents criticize Harris for not addressing the inflation crisis effectively in the last four years. They say she mismanaged the economy as well as immigration, which impacts both economic strain and public safety.
- Poor Disaster Response: 25% criticize inequities in government support following Helene and Milton. Many voice discontent over the federal government prioritizing illegal immigrants over American citizens affected natural disasters.
Economic Discontent Drives Votes
With Election Day less than a month away, economic discontent is likely to influence voter behavior. Trump is poised to capitalize on this frustration, especially in swing states where economic concerns are a high priority.
Predictions
- Republican Turnout: Many expect high voter turnout among Republicans, particularly in suburban and rural areas hit hardest by inflation and stagnant wages.
- Few Swing Votes: Independents and moderates, though disillusioned with both parties, may swing Republican if Trump maintains strong economic messaging and Harris continues to fumble media hits.
- Economic Discontent: If Americans continue to feel individually impacted by economic conditions, they are likely to lean further into a change platform. Mixed messaging from Biden and Harris on Harris’s track record and future plans will likely push voters toward Trump.
11
Oct
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MIG Reports analysis of voter sentiment on economic issues shows a clear pattern: Trump > Harris. Across numerous samples and economic topics, Americans voice their strong preference for Donald Trump’s policies and leadership.
Inflation
Inflation remains a central point of frustration, with 55% of voters in the MIG Reports sample favoring Trump’s policies. They cite his administration's ability to maintain lower costs of living and greater community safety. In contrast, only 18% expresses support for how Biden and Harris handle inflation, while 27% remain uncertain or neutral.
America First
Government spending draws even stronger criticism toward Democrats. While 65% support Trump’s fiscal policies, only 14% back Biden-Harris spending strategies. Many accuse the administration of prioritizing foreign aid over domestic needs. Sentiment is particularly strong in discussions of the misallocation of taxpayer dollars and recent government responses to Hurricane Helene. Americans are frustrated that economic assistance is sent liberally abroad while middle-class hardships remain unaddressed.
Taxation
Taxation is another hot topic, with 60% preferring Trump’s tax cuts, especially for the middle class and businesses. Only 20% view Harris’s proposed tax increases favorably. Skepticism runs high, with many believing the tax plans would burden the middle class further rather than provide relief.
Open Border Effects
Illegal immigration continues to dominate the economic discourse, with 55% arguing lax border policies under Biden and Harris exacerbate job competition and strain public services. Only 12% support the administration’s approach to immigration, and 33% are uncertain about its economic impact.
Executive Leadership
Leadership emerges as a stark contrast between the candidates, with 70% voicing confidence in Trump’s leadership on the economy. People view him as a more pragmatic and business-oriented leader. In contrast, only 15% support Harris’s leadership, with many criticizing her as disconnected from the economic struggles of everyday Americans.
03
Oct
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A looming East Coast port strike is stirring significant debate, particularly the potential economic and political impact. Longshoremen up and down the East Coast plan to strike starting Tuesday. Many view a strike as both a labor issue and a critical election issue which could shift voter sentiment in favor of Donald Trump.
I warned about this days ago.
— Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene🇺🇸 (@RepMTG) September 29, 2024
Longshoremen voted to strike, they walk out Tuesday.
85,000 dockworkers from Maine to Texas. Will impact 36 ports and all imports & exports from Maine to Texas!
This could get rough.
pic.twitter.com/w5gqxSfzthMIG Reports data shows voter discussions revolve around economic concerns, instability, labor relations, and political leadership. A clear sense of discontent toward the Biden-Harris administration threads through most of the discussion.
Voter Reactions to a Port Strike
Many Americans express fear of severe impacts caused by a union strike. In the wake of hurricane Helene, many in states like North Carolina and Tennessee are already struggling to get fuel—and a strike will likely cause supply issues for many more.
This is the line for gas at Sam’s club in Aiken South Carolina.
— 🇺🇸🎙Chad “ThugZilla”Caton🎙🇺🇸 (@ImFiredUp2) September 30, 2024
With the ports on strike and devastation from hurricane Helene…….
This will be national wide by Friday.
Be vigilant, be safe, Be smart
vote Trump come hell or high water!! pic.twitter.com/TddfHySx9IAmong the top discussion themes, Americans mention:
- Fear of supply chain disruptions and inflation.
- Blame toward Democratic leadership, specifically Joe Biden and Kamala Harris.
- Growing Trump support, with sentiments that a strike could increase turnout, especially among blue-collar voters.
- Working-class and rural voter frustration points out issues of job security and wage stagnation.
Economic Impact and Political Fallout
Americans voice growing anxieties about the economic consequences of a dock worker strike. Concerns about rising costs, inflation, and supply chain disruptions are rampant. Voters, especially from working-class backgrounds, are growing more frustrated with the Biden administration, which they perceive as failing to address pressing labor issues.
Blame for Democrats
Most people talking about the impending strike blame Biden and Harris, with 50-60% holding them responsible for economic mismanagement. While labor unions and corporate entities also receive criticism, current political leadership takes the brunt of the blame. Americans express frustration over ineffective policies that exacerbate economic uncertainty.
Increased Support for Trump
A consistent trend of hostility toward Democrats indicates a port strike would likely energize Trump’s base—especially blue-collar voters who feel abandoned by Kamala Harris. Many middle- and working-class Americans view Trump-era economic policies favorably, expressing nostalgia for his leadership. Many believe Trump will more effectively address their economic challenges, driving discussions about voter turnout in his favor.
Demographic Patterns
Working-class voters, particularly in rural areas and port cities, dominate the discussions. Anyone directly affected by potential job losses and economic disruptions are the most vocal about their dissatisfaction. While older voters focus on labor rights and economic stability, younger voters express frustration with the political system as a whole, demanding more meaningful change.
01
Oct
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Billionaire businessman Mark Cuban went viral for saying inflation was not caused by "price gouging," defying the Democratic platform, for which he is known to act as a surrogate. He said on CNBC that unprecedented levels of government spending on things like the Inflation Reduction Act, for which Kamala Harris was the tie-breaker vote, are the true cause.
OMG. Mark Cuban accidentally admits the truth, says inflation was not caused by "price gouging," but rather record spending (which Kamala was the tie-breaking vote on.)
— johnny maga (@_johnnymaga) September 26, 2024
Kamala's top surrogate just blew up her entire economic message. Incredible. pic.twitter.com/HcwBLgYo6xMIG Reports data shows Democratic views of inflation in two categories:
- The seriousness of inflation
- How talking about inflation impacts their candidate
Discussion among Democrats is carefully crafted to maintain voter confidence and achieve electoral success. Rather than a straightforward engagement with the economic realities Americans face, inflation becomes a rhetorical tool used to shift blame, deflect responsibility, and bolster the Democratic Party’s campaign narrative.
In recent interviews, Harris herself has deflected from answering questions about the economy, price gouging, inflation, and how she plans to help Americans.
What does this even mean…?
— Gunther Eagleman™ (@GuntherEagleman) September 25, 2024
Kamala Harris: "Well if you are... hard working... if you... have... uh... the dreams and the ambitions and the aspirations of what I believe you do, you're in my plan." pic.twitter.com/vgnZpe1EKuAmong Democrats:
- 40% blame Trump for the economy
- 25% acknowledge the negative state of inflation
- 19% express economic concerns
- 16% frame the economy as doing well
Glossing Over Inflation: A Strategic Approach
Democrats often acknowledge inflation, but the depth of that engagement varies. Many gloss over or reframed it as a problem inherited from the Trump administration. They frame the Biden-Harris administration as stabilizing the economy in the aftermath of Republican mismanagement.
By casting inflation as a residual effect of Trump’s policies, Democrats downplay the immediate economic concerns of Americans in favor of campaign messaging about aspirations and hope.
This approach is particularly evident in the way Democrats focus on government job reports, stock market gains, and a gradual decrease in gas prices. These elements distract from inflationary pressures, suggesting the current administration has things under control. However, Harris risks alienating voters who are directly impacted by rising costs of living, from groceries to housing.
Electoral Victory Over Economic Engagement
Many Democrats also prioritize winning the election over finding immediate economic solutions. Discussions show a focus on preventing a second Trump term rather than addressing the root causes of inflation for American voters.
Casting blame on Republicans reveals a defensive posture, with Democrats more concerned about economy narratives than offering actionable solutions. This allows them to use inflation as a talking point against Trump rather than as a policy issue in need of immediate attention.
The strategic deflection of blame reduces urgency and accountability to the American people. Instead, economic discussions are geared toward mobilizing voter sentiment, often simplifying complex financial realities into digestible, partisan soundbites. This reliance on political calculation places importance on a second Democratic administration over answering voter concerns.
Real Voter Concerns
While Democrats are clearly using inflation as a political tool, there are some expressing genuine concern about its impact on middle-class families. There is particular focus on housing and food costs for lower income Americans.
However, even these concerns are often accompanied by broader narratives of economic success under the Biden-Harris administration. By emphasizing solutions like tax credits or small business support, Democrats frame a positive electoral message rather than presenting them as pressing crises.
These trends create a dual narrative in Democratic discourse where some are forced to acknowledge the economic pain of voters, but quickly pivoting political messaging that downplays its severity. This tension between caring about economic realities and pursuing political success is a central feature of Democratic discussions on the economy.
Polarization and the Use of Blame
Partisan rhetoric drives Democratic conversations. By consistently blaming Trump, Democrats simplify the conversation, framing it as a political battle rather than a serious issue. This shifts voter attention away from current failures and pushes a narrative that a Harris administration would bring change.
This tactic, while effective in galvanizing the base, is also dismissive of the real economic challenges voters face. The risk here is that by leaning too heavily on partisan blame, Democrats may lose the opportunity to connect with voters.
30
Sep
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American are navigating a period of economic uncertainty. Concerns focus on inflation, political distrust, and a volatile job market. Voter discussions touch on underlying causes and point to specific demographic trends and emotional reactions. In a critical election year, emotions are high, and negativity soars with living costs.
The level of uncertainty in the US consumer is at an all time high, per Bloomberg: pic.twitter.com/1FmUd36XY7
— unusual_whales (@unusual_whales) September 26, 2024Causes of Economic Uncertainty
Inflation dominates consumer discussions, with the rising cost of living—particularly for groceries, housing, and energy—sparking widespread frustration. About 65% discuss concerns about inflation, saying wages are not keeping pace with increased costs.
Around 58% are skeptical toward government policies, especially those championed by Democratic candidate Kamala Harris. Americans blame the Biden-Harris administration for exacerbating economic struggles with ineffective fiscal strategies and tax policies.
People are also worried about the job market, taxes, and competition from foreign workers. Roughly 70% of voice concerns over rising taxes and their impact on middle-class and small business owners.
Effects of Economic Uncertainty
As inflation climbs and trust in leadership erodes, consumers respond by adopting more cautious spending habits. Many hesitate to make large purchases or increase consumption, reflecting a broader trend of economic retrenchment.
Nearly 20% of comments indicate a “survival mentality,” where saving takes precedence over spending due to uncertainty. This economic anxiety also drives political engagement, with approximately 25% supporting Donald Trump, citing better living during his administration.
Demographic Complaints
Middle-class Americans are the most vocal demographic in discussions about economic uncertainty. Around 60% of middle-class households say they struggle with rising costs and property taxes.
About 20% of discussions come from small business owners who fear taxes and inflation will devastate their operations. Younger voters, while less supportive of Trump, express disillusionment with both parties. Working-class voters speak primarily about job security and the erosion of union rights, representing 40% of the discussion.
Patterns in Reactions
Many Americans are dissatisfied with government policies. Around 60% express frustration over the Biden-Harris administration's policies for inflation, healthcare, and border control. Emotional polarization, amplified by political distrust, frequently results in blame for political figures.
Roughly 15% view the government as corrupt, saying political leaders intentionally exacerbate economic instability for their own gain. Amid this polarized landscape, many consumers yearn for change, with 52% advocating for a return to Donald Trump’s leadership as a corrective measure.
29
Sep
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Donald Trump's recent debate statement linking immigration to economic issues resonates with voters who also view these issues as linked. According to Trump, immigration and economic stability are inherently intertwined—a reality many segments of the electorate overserve on their own. However, many voters also reject this view or express neutral feelings. While immigration and economic issues remain high priority for all voters, how Americans think about them is starkly varied.
The Border Impacts the Economy
Trump's supporters overwhelmingly view immigration as a key driver of economic challenges. These voters argue unchecked immigration, particularly illegal immigration, strains public resources. Many, like residents in Ohio struggling with an influx of immigrants, say migrant needs inflate housing and healthcare costs. They also say mass migration threatens job security.
Particularly on the right, agree that the economy is impacted by illegal immigration. However, mentions of this link vary depending on the origins of the discussion. Despite the variables, Trump’s assertion remains a point of agreement for most Americans.
What Voters Say
- MIG Reports data shows approximately 46.4% of voters believe stronger immigration controls would directly lead to improved economic conditions. They often mention reducing competition for jobs and lower inflation rates.
- 28.6% of voters align with Harris’s perspective, which suggests Trump is dramatizing the severity of both economic struggles and border security.
- 20% of voters voice neutral or mixed views, reflecting a more nuanced or indifferent stance on the issue.
Economy Conversations
In discussions about the economy:
- 57.2% support Trump's view that the economy is linked to immigration.
- 23.5% disagree with linking the issues.
- 19.3% remain neutral or indifferent to the connection.
Border Security Conversations
In discussions about the border and immigration:
- 35.6% support Trump's stance.
- 33.7% disagree, expressing concerns about oversimplification or sensationalism.
- 20.7% are neutral or hold mixed views, calling for more nuanced discussions.
Open Border Voters Disagree
Americans who disagree that immigration is tied to the economy say Trump oversimplifies complex issues. They say the economy's problems are rooted in broader systemic challenges like inflation, corporate policies, and global economic trends. Many of these voters claim Trump’s statements are nothing more than fearmongering.
Opponents also say Trump sensationalizes border and economy discussions by making false claims about immigrants increasing U.S. crime. This group believes immigrants contribute positively to the economy, filling critical labor shortages and fostering cultural diversity, which they believe outweighs the economic risks Trump outlines.
The Kinda-Sorta-I-Don’t-Know Vote
Mixed sentiment voters mostly express two perspectives. Some criticize both Trump and Kamala Harris’s views on the economy and immigration, while others opt to prioritize issues they view as more important. These viewpoints reflect a broader frustration with political rhetoric and a desire for more balanced dialogue.
Sentiment Analysis
Voters may feel more inclined to support Trump's stance on immigration when the issue is framed as economic. Many American workers feel personal impacts from job competition, inflation, and rising costs in their daily lives. Linking immigration to these concerns resonates more directly than speaking about it as a standalone issue.
When conversations focus primarily on border security or immigration issues, viewpoints tend to become more abstract. Voters may feel less directly impacted unless they live in a border or sanctuary state, leading to more mixed or neutral views.
Additionally, social conditioning may play a role if voters avoid expressing strong opinions on immigration to avoid being seen as racist or xenophobic. This common framing of border issues on the political left often aims severe criticism at border security concerns. When voters view immigration through the lens of economic impact, Americans are more able to justify a desire for stricter policies without touching on sensitive racial dynamics.
13
Sep
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The public discourse surrounding the American job market under Democratic leadership presents a polarized landscape of opinions. As workers navigate the impact of recent jobs reports and unemployment figures, varying levels of confidence emerge. Political affiliations often shape perceptions of the Biden-Harris administration's economic policies.
This analysis examines themes of optimism, skepticism, and economic anxieties among voters.
Hope or Despair for Economic Recovery
Three dominant themes arise in the analysis:
- Optimism about job growth and economic recovery
- Disbelief about incorrect job numbers and economic stability
- Concerns about inflation and broader economic pressures
Americans express strong doubt about the long-term sustainability of current policies, along with some belief in Democratic leadership to foster job creation. Most voters express anxiety, while a minority remain hopeful about Biden-Harris plans to strengthen jobs.
Highest discussion volume:
- Concerns about inflation and broader economic pressures
- Skepticism toward job numbers
- Optimism about job growth and economic recovery
Strongest negative sentiment:
- Skepticism of job numbers and economic stability
- Concerns about inflation and broader economic pressures
- Optimism about job growth and economic recovery
Optimism Among Democrats
Democratic supporters maintain confidence in the economic trajectory Biden and Harris tout as positive. In various discussions, proponents highlight job growth, claiming the administration has created more than 15 million jobs since 2021. This, they suggest, is strong evidence of a recovering economy.
Approximately 40% of voter conversations reflect this optimistic outlook, emphasizing the Biden-Harris administration’s narrative of unemployment rates, historical job creation, and the resilience of the labor market despite recent global challenges. This group believes Democratic leadership’s progressive policies, aimed at fostering employment, are crucial to the country’s ongoing recovery.
Despite this optimism, Federal Reserve data shows August 2024 is the lowest year for August jobs in the past 10 years. This evidence of a cooling job market is increasing wider worries of an impending recession.
Skepticism of Job Numbers
In contrast to Democratic optimism, most voters remain skeptical about the reported job growth and unemployment figures. These doubts are driven by recurring downward revisions to job reports, with a shocking 818,000 fewer jobs than originally reported in the last year.
Many express suspicion about the accuracy of the data, with some alleging the numbers are manipulated or inflated. They say Democrats want to paint a more favorable picture for the Biden-Harris administration. This skepticism is further fueled by concerns that job growth disproportionately benefits non-citizens. This is particularly upsetting while American workers, particularly the middle class, continue to face economic hardship.
There are reports that more than 1.3 million jobs were lost by American citizens, while 1.2 million jobs were filled by illegal immigrant workers. Approximately 53% of voter comments express a sense of distrust, suggesting current policies fail to address the economic challenges of American citizens.
Economic Anxieties and Concerns about Inflation
A prominent theme throughout the discourse centers on inflation and the rising cost of living. These are frequently mentioned as critical issues affecting American households. Many commenters argue that, despite reported job numbers, inflation rates remain high, and wage growth has not kept pace with the increasing cost of essential goods such as food and gas.
Voter concerns are exacerbated by fears of a looming recession, with some predicting the current economic trajectory under Democratic leadership will lead to further instability. Most discussions address inflation as a pressing issue, underscoring the belief that ongoing economic pressures overshadow any gains in the job market.
11
Sep
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Recent viral stories about job losses among American-born workers and job increases for foreign are causing anger among voters. MIG Reports analysis shows discussions are laced with worry about job security, economic inequality, and a perceived lack of government support.
As the labor market evolves, native workers express fears that foreign laborers, supported by illegal immigration, are taking jobs that belong to them. This narrative is rich in personal stakes and political dissatisfaction, painting a complex picture of an American workforce under pressure.
Holy shit:
— zerohedge (@zerohedge) September 6, 2024
Foreign-born workers: +635K in August
Native-born workers: -1.325 MILLION in August
Yes, 1.3 million NATIVE-BORN Americans lost a job in August pic.twitter.com/7EC3H1KH5YThe Jobs Narrative
American conversations are dominated by the personal experiences of native-born workers who feel left behind in the labor market. In discussions focused solely on jobs, 62% of voters in the MIG Reports sample use first-person language such as "I feel" or "we are facing." This high percentage of personal pronouns highlights how job insecurity is felt at an individual level, with many expressing direct fear that their jobs are being taken by foreign workers.
People use phrases like “lost jobs,” “foreign competition,” and “native workers left behind” to express their anger. This reflects a shared sentiment that the job market is slipping out of the hands of Americans who need work and being given to cheaper laborers who are here illegally and likely do not contribute appropriate taxes.
While some Americans believe the economy is growing and job creation is on the rise, most are highly dissatisfied with current economic policies. Voters frequently link the situation to Biden-Harris policies, blaming Democrats for the job market. Frustration extends beyond immediate job loss to larger issues like inflation, stagnant wages, and government mismanagement.
Housing and Unemployment
Worries about finding sufficient employment extend into other societal issues, such as housing. As job stability declines for Americans, many native-born workers express growing concern about their ability to afford housing and maintain a stable standard of living. The commentary frequently links job loss to an increasing strain on personal finances. People discuss fears that foreign workers are taking jobs that would otherwise provide them with the means to secure affordable housing.
Around 66% focus on the negative impact of foreign workers on the job market. Voters call for stricter immigration laws and policies that prioritize native-born workers. The housing crisis is another flashpoint in these discussions, as many commenters believe that resources are being diverted from American citizens to accommodate foreign workers and their families. Phrases like “I can’t afford my rent while they get housing” emphasize the personal financial strain many feel, suggesting job loss and economic challenges are bleeding into other critical areas of life.
Economic Issues and Government Accountability
The anxiety over job security is mirrored in economic discussions as well. Discussions reflect broader fears about the economy, focusing heavily on inflation, taxes, and the government's failure to prioritize American workers.
- 70% of comments express negative sentiments toward the economy.
- 65% advocate for stricter immigration policies to curb the imbalance in the job market.
Sentiments from the jobs-centric discussions are echoed here, as many contributors link job loss to broader economic failures. Common phrases include “we need to prioritize Americans” and “the economy under Biden has failed,” showing how job concerns are intertwined with larger fears about the country’s economic future. Commenters frequently demand action from political leaders, calling for reforms that protect native-born workers from foreign competition and stabilize the economy.
10
Sep