Recent reporting on Boston Mayor Michelle Wu's potential decision to give children a role in budgeting priorities is being mocked online. The program, which was approved in 2021, aims to include all residents in budget participation, even kids as young as 11. Boston City Council members are also criticizing Wu, calling the plan “unserious” and “wholly inappropriate.”

Not just a political issue, many apolitical citizens are criticizing the move with the same arguments many right leaning partisans are using. Liberals are also apprehensive of supporting the plan. While some consider the proposal inclusive, others vehemently oppose it. For the most part, progressives are either silent on the issue or pushing back.

While there is general negativity toward a participatory budgeting process, most of the negative reactions are from conservatives and Republicans who criticize liberal leaders. Many seem concerned about the concentration of power and the potential influence of leftist ideologies in the decision-making process. There are strong references to the concept of "wokeness" and its impact on these decisions.

Many view the proposed plan as the result of ideological pushes toward diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), with some framing it as possible indoctrination. Some of these reactions also follow larger discussion trends amongst conservatives regarding freedom of speech.

Positive reactions predominantly come from those who hold progressive or left-wing ideologies. They point to inclusivity, representation, and potential contributions to the betterment of society, praising the decision. This group seems more enthusiastic about child involvement, often framing it as a necessary step towards a more diverse and fair society.

This inclusive view is not representative of all Democratic Party members, though. Council Member Ed Flynn (D) published a letter to Director Renato Castelo saying, "I am writing to again emphasize my unequivocal and vehement opposition to the voting process for project proposals from the Office of Participatory Budgeting, particularly in allowing residents as young as 11 years-old to vote for projects to be earmarked.”

There are also responses that are not politically motivated. This group is concerned with the logistical and practical implications of participatory budgeting. They question the decision-making abilities of children and whether they have the necessary understanding and maturity to make these choices.

Immediately following his widely controversial conviction in New York City, former president Donald Trump:

• Raised more than $200 million.
• Created a TikTok account and gained 4.1 million followers.
• Continued to climb in betting markets for the 2024 Presidential election.

Since the end of May, Polymarket odds show Trump above a 50% chance at the presidency, hitting 56% over the weekend.

MIG Reports analysis shows Trump’s conviction created a significant and increasing level of support from his followers, despite the legal troubles. This is evident from various voter groups emerging on social media demonstrating overwhelming support directly because of the verdict. It appears the conviction has served to galvanize his support base.

From posts on social media, many of his supporters view his conviction as a political move by Democrats to "get Trump.” This view is echoed across various posts and groups, framing the entire legal process as a leftist attempt to target Trump. Many compare the legal measures against Trump to a lack of action against other political figures on the left, further cementing the view of political bias in the justice system.

There is a suggestion that political attacks against Trump have made MAGA stronger, implying the adversity is energizing Americans against Democrats. A sense of being “on the attack” over the perceived victimization of Trump is overwhelming in online discussions, particularly in those referring to Trump as an outlaw and a strong American.

Many voters suggest the election in November will see Trump return as President, indicating an expectation of his perseverance. Many also reminisce about his leadership, wishing to see him back in office, despite the conviction. Many are also talking about the major influx in campaign contributions post-conviction, underscoring the financial support backing him.

There are some posts critical of Trump and his supporters, describing his followers as a cult, decrying the narrative that he is a victim. Many among the opposition take every opportunity to refer to him as a convicted felon. It appears, however, that these criticisms are outweighed by the volume of support shown for Trump in the aftermath of the conviction.

MIG Reports analysis of Donald Trump’s conviction in New York City shows a continued negative reaction through the weekend. Fury is largely influenced by conservative and less progressive demographics expressing dissatisfaction with the trial and beliefs the process was unjust and politically motivated.

Discussion Trends

A lot of the conversation is highly partisan with right leaning comments often criticizing liberals, the court, and other institutions involved in the decision.

Some voters believe the unjust Trump conviction is a step towards communism and an attack on conservative values.

There is a palpable sentiment of deep division within the country, often illustrated through derogatory language, and a complete disconnect in the interpretation of events by both sides of the aisle.

Sentiment Trends

One clear trend a sense of disappointment and dissatisfaction with both the Democratic Party and the Biden administration. This is expressed through repeated criticism and anger towards Biden, expressions of disagreement with his policies, and criticism of his administration’s political maneuvers and lawfare. Many show support for a Trump comeback and tend to downplay or dismiss his legal issues.

Liberals and progressives express a more disjointed sentiment. Some celebrate the conviction as a win for democracy and justice, while others raise issues about social divisiveness stemming from political polarization. Far left and progressive voters sometimes express dissatisfaction about perceived insufficiency or inadequacy of systemic changes the conviction may bring.

Accusations Against the Uniparty

• Conversations frame Trump's conviction as perpetrated by a system run by a corrupt bipartisan "uniparty." Many believe the uniparty or the deep state aims to consolidate power—and most view the Republican party as complicit.
• Most discussion comes from Trump supporters who view him as fighting against this corrupt establishment. The verdict reinforces support for him and decreases sentiment towards Biden due to his perceived association with the uniparty.

Rule of Law

• The largest volume of conversation refers to Trump's conviction being a result of political bias and legal system misuse.
• Most voters express dissatisfaction with Democrats and Biden, while a minority support the conviction. They view the entire trial as a breakdown of the rule of law.
• Those who approve of the verdict view it as justified and mostly support the current administration. Notably there seems to be very little middle ground on this issue, with most voters either strongly in favor or strongly opposed.
• Some sub-groups believe Republicans are undermining the constitution and rule of law, increasing support for Biden and decreasing support for the GOP.
• As a result of disillusionment and distrust of the system, there is discontent with politicians like House Speaker Mike Johnson and Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg for their perceived bias and corruption.

Deep State

• Conversations about Trump's potential conviction are emotionally charged and polarized, often reflecting selective viewpoints, depending on the echo chamber.
• Trump supporters discuss corruption involving the "deep state," Democrats, and CIA, expressing dissatisfaction and viewing the conviction as unjust.
• Trump critics see the potential conviction as a form of justice, feeling satisfaction at his possible downfall. This may also suggest motives are skewed away from solely seeking justice but influenced by a partisan outlook.

With a bombshell guilty verdict in former President Donald Trump’s New York trial, voter discussions emerged around preventing Trump from becoming the GOP nominee. Some prominent voices promoting this idea include:

Today's verdict is a fire-bell in the night. The Republican Party now has one last chance to change course, and not nominate a convicted felon for President.

— John Bolton (@AmbJohnBolton) May 30, 2024

It is not easy to see a former President and the presumptive GOP nominee convicted of felony crimes; but the jury verdict should be respected. An appeal is in order but let’s not diminish the significance of this verdict.

— Gov. Asa Hutchinson (@AsaHutchinson) May 30, 2024

There are also numerous other non-public social media profiles discuss installing previous primary candidates such as Ron DeSantis, Nikki Haley, and Vivek Ramaswamy.

MIG Reports analysis shows discussion of possibility of the Republican National Convention becoming a brokered convention or the Republican National Committee selecting a candidate other than Trump. Sentiment is primarily against the Democratic Party, with some comparing the party to a communist or socialist regime and voicing concerns that it is damaging the country.

Most voters express strong disagreement with the idea of the Republican National Committee choosing a different candidate. This suggests a strong loyalty to Trump among much of the Republican base. This potency of commitment suggests any decision to field an alternate candidate could result in substantial backlash or fracturing within the party.

There is also significant fear that the USA is turning into a "communist state," with people pointing out real or perceived similarities between the current Democratic Party strategies and historical actions of communist regimes. Some also mention a Republican Party which they fear harbors anti-Trump sentiment. Deviations from the Trump-led mainstream in the Republican party are also characterized as betrayals.

There are frequent mentions of the 2020 election being stolen and calls for direct action to "take America back." Voters repeatedly compare the current Democratic Party’s actions to the Nazi party under Adolf Hitler, particularly in relation to alleged suppression of free speech.

It is evident that emotions around this conversation are severe, with deep conviction among many inside and outside the GOP.

Swing States

Pro-Trump supporters are aggressive in their response, expressing deep loyalty to the former president and declaring their continued support. They portray Trump as a selfless patriot who risks his personal status and wealth for the sake of the American people. Their posts and hashtags, like #Trump2024, #MAGA, #MakeAmericaGreatAgain, suggest they see a future for Trump in leadership. They view any wrongdoing alleged against Trump as part of a witch hunt, orchestrated by liberal courts and the media, drawing on rhetoric used by Trump himself. They express disdain for Republican politicians who wish to distance themselves from Trump, accusing them of aligning with Democrats and having a secret agenda.

Supporters also voice concerns about the perceived erosion of American government and governance, accusing the state and its institutions of moving towards communism. For them, any attempt to sideline or convict Trump is seen as an attack on the American people's will and the constitution. Many suggest there will be a surge in Trump's popularity and predict backlash in upcoming elections.

Critics of Trump are pleased with the prospect of the Republican National Committee selecting an alternative candidate. They argue justice is being served with the charges against him. They do not sympathize with the narrative presented by his supporters, and instead, view Trump as a threat to democracy.

Despite the differences, there is a common narrative of the situation as a moment of crisis for the American republic - either through alleged political persecution and suppression or through the potential re-emergence of a figure they see as an ideological threat. Ultimately, the comments underscore the deep divides within the American political landscape.

After a New York Times article speculating Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito revealed sympathy for January 6 protesters with an upside-down flag at his home, liberals are calling for his recusal. Amid escalating political turmoil and wavering trust in the justice system, partisan arguments are breaking out between the left and the right.

Reactions to the media reporting and Democrat calls for recusal can primarily be divided along political lines. Those who support Democrats argue Alito's actions have demonstrated bias and breach of conduct. Republicans and those on the right label the recusal outcry as a politically motivated on conservative Justices.

Liberal Outcry Against Justice Alito

Left leaning voters tend to see the call for Alito’s recusal as entirely justified. They cite a belief in his partisan bias and claim he involves himself in political activities outside of his judicial duties. They argue for the necessity of maintaining impartiality and integrity in the judiciary, calling for transparency and accountability from judges. They also voice concern about the potential corruption of the judicial system, applying this fear specifically to Alito.

Mainstream media outlets and Democrats insist Alito’s refusal to recuse himself brings up concerns of fairness. They accuse his wife of sympathizing with January 6 protests by her flag choices, citing this as a violation of judicial ethics.

Conservative Reactions to the Idea of Alito’s Recusal

Most right leaning Americans take umbrage at the idea that Justice Alito should recuse himself for an unfounded rumor which they consider a nonstory. Republicans are more likely to see Democrat arguments as part of a larger-scale effort to control and manipulate judicial systems to their advantage.

Those on the right view accusations against Justice Alito as an attempt to undermine the balance of power on a Supreme Court with a conservative majority. There are also vocal questions and accusations about Democrats’ political motivations in attacking Alito.

Conservatives argue calls for Alito’s recusal are highly hypocritical when contrasted with Democrat reactions to judges like Arthur Engoron or Juan Merchan – who both side with Democrats in their judicial decisions.

Double Standards Applied to Conservatives

Critics who oppose Alito’s recusal highlight Democrat hypocrisy. They point to alleged ethical violations by liberal judges such as Judge Merchan, which Democrats dismiss as inconsequential.

Those on the left claim to seek a stronger ethical code and accountability in the judiciary for figures like Justice Alito. However, many point to this as an outrageous inconsistency that is exclusively applied to conservatives.

Accusations of double standards are especially stark as voters on all sides voice concern with the allegations against Judge Merchan. Many are calling for thorough investigations into connections with his daughter and her financial dealings regarding Trump’s recent New York trial.

However, conversations about Judge Merchan have not generated the same amount of outcry as Justice Alito's controversy. Some critics perceive this as a display of political bias against conservatives by the media and Democrats. They accuse both of overlooking and under reporting ethical violations from liberal judges and becoming hysterical about benign issues like the flag choices at the Alito home.

Robert De Niro recently gained attention for an angry screed against former President Donald Trump in New York City. His comments, which included insisting that if America re-elects Trump, he will never leave office, drew heckles and boos from passing New Yorkers.

DeNiro losing it as someone starts honking their car horn over and over as he tries to say voting for Biden is how we fix America pic.twitter.com/kTSfnvexCg

— Jack Poso 🇺🇸 (@JackPosobiec) May 28, 2024

De Niro then got into a yelling match with his hecklers, calling them gangsters. Video of the event online caused partisan discussion about Trump, De Niro, and celebrities using their influence for politics.

It’s embarrassing that even Vito Corleone AKA De Niro can’t win New Yorkers over.

Great actor but a bitter grumpy old man.

pic.twitter.com/pz0heFLUnX

— Patrick Bet-David (@patrickbetdavid) May 29, 2024

Right Leaning and Cringe-Sensitive Americans React

Mentions of De Niro online are mostly partisan, with left leaning commenters supporting him and right leaning voters ridiculing him. There are also less politically inclined Americans who simply view De Niro’s speech as a cringeworthy display by another actor desperate for attention.

Many voters perceive De Niro’s claims that Trump has dictatorial tendencies as unfounded and fantastical. People mock De Niro’s accusations of Trump wanting to "take our country down the black hole of dictatorship" and terminate the U.S. Constitution.

People are also discussing his integrations with hecklers during the political event, but reactions are similarly politically slanted. Some mention De Niro as falling from grace, calling him a "has been" who struggles with anger and TDS (Trump derangement syndrome).

• Even with criticism from De Niro and his leftist counterparts, Trump’s approval remains steady with sentiment towards him on the topic of president consistently at 50%.

Liberal Trump Haters

Democratic voters and anti-Trumpers compare Trump unfavorably with Robert De Niro. They say De Niro, unlike Trump, paid his taxes and has contributed positively to New York City. They express a belief that Trump has played a role in deteriorating conditions in New York. They cite issues like rising crime and high taxes, criticizing Trump for his impact in exacerbating both.

Many liberals also agree with suggestions that Trump has demonstrated dictatorial tendencies. This seems to be a common belief among those who oppose Trump – and many view the gravity of the 2024 election as democracy hanging in the balance. This group regularly accuses Trump of intending to act like a dictator if he were to regain power.

Anti-Trumpers also raise concerns about his alleged intentions to punish political opponents. They frequently draw comparisons between him and historical dictators like Hitler. Some comment multiple times on these points.

Views of Celebrity Influence in Politics

De Niro, like many left leaning celebrities, is known for his outspoken political viewpoints. He frequently speaks up about the need for gun control and other Democratic platform issues like climate change.

The ongoing tendency for celebrities to insert themselves into political commentary is increasingly a point of annoyance for many Americans. Reactions often convey strong negative feelings towards woke culture and left-wing commentary imposed by entertainers and mainstream media.

Some also point out that, while Democrats and the left have long been seen as having more star power and cultural influence, trotting out celebrities like Robert De Niro and Mark Hamill whose popularity is waning, may a sign of decreasing cultural cachet.

General patterns of American views about celebrity political activism include:

• Partisan Responses: Some voters warmly embrace celebrity viewpoints if they align with their own political beliefs.
• Disregard for Celebrity Opinions: Most people seem to believe celebrities lack the requisite knowledge or expertise to offer valid commentary on complex political issues.
• Irrelevant Voices: People see celebrities as out-of-touch with the realities of ordinary citizens and therefore dismiss their perspectives as irrelevant.
• Annoyance: There is also hostility towards celebrities who use their fame to promote political agendas. This attitude is often expressed with strong negative language.
• Supporting Free Speech: Some express the belief that celebrities, like any other citizens, have the right to voice their political views, even if they disagree with these views.
• Conspiracy and Distrust: Other trends indicate a broader mistrust in mainstream media and celebrity clout. Many view celebrity commentary as part of a larger, orchestrated propaganda agenda.

MIG Reports analyzed recent approval of Democratic voters toward President Joe Biden and their current views of the Democratic party. While some voters show support and approval of Biden's performance as president, many Democrats express disapproval or downright hostility towards Biden and his administration.

The main issues Democrats mention include:

• A potential Biden impeachment
• Border security
• Economic policy
• The Israel-Hamas war
• A perceived lack of transparency and honesty from his administration

There's a noticeable discontent with Biden's stance on border control, which some believe is leading to a crisis. Some Democratic voters accuse Biden of being supporting illegal immigrants more than U.S. citizens.

Economic concerns are also prominent, with frustrations centered on rising prices and perceived fiscal irresponsibility. Furthermore, there are negative sentiments about Biden's honesty and transparency, with many suggesting dealings involving his son, Hunter, were covered up.

MIG Reports has also extensively covered the growing divide among Democrats and progressives over Israel. Campus protests, “Uncommitted” votes, and defiance from his own party members like the progressive Squad indicate deep fractures within the party.

Despite significant negativity towards Biden, no other Democrat candidate is emerging as a preferable choice for voters. This suggests an increasing need for new leadership figures within the Democratic party. Voters calling for Biden's impeachment and using derogatory language suggest a significant division and hostility from some quarters.

Among the few supportive voices, there are mentions of Biden's perceived accomplishments and desire to challenge Republican hypocrisy. However, these views are noticeably outnumbered.

Overall, sentiment trends suggest dissatisfaction among many Democrats towards President Joe Biden for a variety of reasons. There is a possibility that AI-compiled data may be more likely to gather politically engaged or partisan viewpoints than those of average citizens. However, among vocal Democrats, the sentiments appear strong, indicating a likely similarity among less vocal party members.

The second day of jury deliberations in former President Donald Trump’s trial in New York City brings the trial closer to an end. The case involves 34 charges of falsifying business records during the 2016 presidential election. Judge Juan Mercan has instructed the jury and, while they have yet to reach a verdict, Americans are watching the trial unfold with interest.

MIG Reports analysis studied recent online discussion and sentiment trends about the trial. Based on public posts, it seems many Americans – including legal experts – are struggling to gain a clear understanding of what the trial is about. State felony criminal charges of falsifying business records with respect to specific invoices, vouchers, and checks, on which the case pivots, are overly complex for many voters. None of the online discussion provides detailed explanations of these charges or the specifics of the case. Instead, conversation focuses on broader political narratives and accusations of corruption.

The lack of depth in discussion suggests people are less engaged with the actual content of the trial, and more reactive to media narratives about it. Most of the discussion around this trial revolves around three key points of contention.

Discussion Trends

Accusations of Corruption and Bias

Many voters mention their belief that the New York Trump trial is rife with corruption and political bias. For example, there are repeated references to perceived bias by Judge Juan Merchan. People believe he has been making unfair rulings and that he is acting corruptly. There are claims he is part of a wider conspiracy to politically prosecute Trump, with some suggesting the entire American justice system is now corrupted.

Trump's Guilt or Innocence

Two major narratives emerge with respect to Trump's guilt or innocence. Some are vehement that Trump is guilty, arguing the evidence is compelling. However, a large portion of observers suspect Trump is innocent, positioning him as the victim of a witch-hunt. The theme of Trump's innocence amid a corrupt system that is politically targeting him seems most prevalent.

Political Persecution

There are strong suggestions the trial is politically motivated and seeking to discredit or undermine Trump and the Republican Party. Those who discuss this believe Democrats have weaponized the justice system for their own purposes. They say Trump’s trial is a symptom of a broader social corruption and potentially threatening to any American citizen.

Sentiment Trends

Emotional Drivers

Many voters express anxiety and anger about perceived biases within the justice system. These individuals see Trump as being unjustly persecuted. They feel the charges brought against him are overly politicized.

Others voice disgust at what they perceive to be corruption within the judicial system. They assert that Judge Merchan and the prosecutors are not impartial and are engaging in egregious misconduct that should be investigated.

There is also anger and frustration from those who insist Trump is guilty of the charges brought against him. They express their faith and hope in the justice system along with their desire for a conviction.

Demographic Patterns

There are no specific geographic patterns, which suggests national interest in the case is relatively consistent. However, political alignment plays an important role. Those who support Trump — likely staunch Republicans and MAGA voters — demonstrate a high level of skepticism and discontent with the trial. Those who support the trial proceedings are likely to be Democrats or anti-Trump voters.

Sentiment Trends

Overall, most voters seem to lean more towards negative reactions fueled by fear of corruption, perceived bias, and lack of trust in the legal framework. Any positive sentiments are submerged in the negative discourse, but mostly revolve around faith in the justice system and the prospect of Trump's conviction.

Amid former president Trump’s visit to the Libertarian National Convention and Chase Oliver’s subsequent nomination, discussions about Libertarian Party immigration platforms emerge.

Libertarian policies, which emphasize open borders and free movement across countries, get mixed reception from both conservative and libertarian voters. Conservatives are quick to point out immigration as a point of deep disagreement between themselves and libertarians – typically overlapping ideologically on other issues.

Libertarian candidate Chase Oliver’s immigration platform.

- Mass amnesty for millions in the U.S. illegally
- Path to citizenship for DACA
- Ellis Island style mass processing
- Expansion of H-1B work visas

Not a word about border security. https://t.co/gYRZobK98E

— Bill Melugin (@BillMelugin_) May 28, 2024

Many conservatives on X are pointing out that Oliver’s Libertarian platform aligns more closely with Biden’s open borders. This has also sparked discussions about how broadly aligned Republicans, and even Trump himself, are with Libertarians.

Libertarians and Immigration

Libertarians, true to their philosophical principles, usually advocate for less government intervention across the board. This includes freer migration policies influenced by a belief in the free market and individual rights – or more simply, open borders. They often view ideas like a border wall as an imprudent use of tax dollars. They say government intervention at the border is contrary to their overall philosophy.

This group also argues free labor movement is beneficial to the economy and individual liberty, rather than hurtful to American sovereignty. However, not all libertarians agree with this perspective. Some express skepticism about completely open borders, particularly in terms of security and preserving the nation's cultural and social fabric.

Many voters view Chase Oliver’s platform as advocating open borders based on freedom and prosperity. Some Libertarians envision a world where people are free to move and seek opportunities anywhere in the world. They often highlight the historic role immigrants played in fueling American innovation and economic growth. They assert fears of economic and cultural displacement are both misplaced and overstated.

Conservative Views of Libertarian Borders

Right leaning and conservative voters, especially under the current administration, widely disagree with Libertarian immigration policies. They tend to view border security and stopping migrant entries into the U.S. as extremely important.

Conservatives are more likely to support building a wall and deporting illegal immigrants. This view is underpinned by their emphasis on national security and protecting jobs and resources. This group also attributes illegal immigration as a major contributor to issues like crime and economic hardship.

Republicans and conservatives regularly cite border security, economic impact, rule of law, and national identity as top issues. They sometimes accuse the Libertarian Party of supporting lawlessness by advocating for open borders. They are also more likely to criticize Libertarians for having minimal support and political impact.

Some point to polling reports by outlets like Axios and Reuters/Ipsos identifying more than 50% of Americans – including Democrats – support mass deportations.

56% of US registered voters support deporting most or all immigrants living in the country illegally, Reuters/Ipsos poll has found.

— unusual_whales (@unusual_whales) May 29, 2024

Trump at the Libertarian National Convention

Donald Trump’s comments at the Libertarian National Convention also sparked discussion about the impact of the party. MAGA and conservatives who attended or viewed Trump’s remarks largely embraced what he said.

Trump supporters view his American-first immigration policies as safeguarding American values, jobs, and security. Despite the policy disagreements with Libertarians, they saw Trump's willingness to engage Libertarians as a true reflection of his assertive leadership style and an attempt to create unity on the right.

As for Trump himself, amid taunts and jeers from the crowd, he told Libertarians, "Maybe you don't want to win,” adding, “Keep getting your 3% every four years,” roasting the unruly audience.

Some argue Trump’s comments are accurate – especially with Libertarian policies like open borders becoming increasingly unpopular.

Trump just showed up to the Libertarian Party Convention, told libertarians "Maybe you don't want to win ... keep getting your 3 percent every four years,” then left.

Total Chad move.
pic.twitter.com/GxztfQ0V02

— BowTiedRanger (@BowTiedRanger) May 26, 2024