Only a few days prior to Election Day, voter discussions are tense. The atmosphere around Trump and Harris is fraught with tension, worry, and anticipation. Daily top discussion topics include:

• Culture issues
• The economy
• Border security
• Housing

Trump continues to hold a major advantage in social media discussions and a smaller edge in sentiment.

Trump Dominates Discussion Volume

Across the four top topics, Trump significantly outpaces Harris in mention volume:

• Trump gains nearly 20,000 daily mentions compared to Harris's 8,520.
• Voters discuss him more, both positively and negatively.
• The disparity suggests Trump’s rhetoric and policies elicit a greater response.
• Support for Trump on border security and economic deregulation contrast starkly with the criticisms from his detractors.

In contrast, Harris’s comparatively limited public engagement may indicate lower enthusiasm:

• Lower levels of attention may demonstrate Harris’s challenge connecting with voters.
• Those who could perceive her policies as either overly cautious or insufficiently distinct from Biden’s may not feel the need to weigh in.
• Her lower engagement on core issues potentially suggests a voter base that is less energized or divided in their support.

Trump’s Slight Sentiment Advantage

Though Trump’s higher volume might imply broader reach, the sentiment attached to both candidates is tighter.

• Excluding rallies, Trump leads Harris by a slight margin, holding an average sentiment score of 44.25% compared to Harris's 43.5%.
• A minor advantage suggests, despite divisive rhetoric, Trump’s stance on core issues resonates more positively with voters
• Those seeking strong leadership on economic and border policies are particularly positive toward him.

Culture Issues

Ideologies and culture war issues are relatively evenly matched for both candidates at 44%.

Trump

• This parity highlights the sharp cultural divide among Americans, where each candidate represents a competing ideological vision.
• Trump supporters view his cultural stances as a defense against progressive overreach and Democratic “dehumanization” of conservative values.
• There’s intense backlash against comments made by Democratic leaders and media who call Trump voters “Nazis,” “fascists,” and “garbage.”

Harris

• Harris’s alignment with progressive causes receives a mixed reception.
• While some view her as a voice for inclusivity and social justice, detractors interpret her policies as leaning too far left, threatening American values.
• Harris faces difficulty in uniting a broad coalition under a progressive platform, particularly moderate or non-woke Democrats.

Economic Issues

Economic issues a top issue in the 2024 race, with Trump holding a slight sentiment advantage—44% versus Harris's 43%.

Trump

• Trump advocates emphasizing his commitment to deregulation and tax reductions, which they argue will spur economic growth and alleviate inflationary pressures.
• They say he represents a return to a more business-friendly, self-sustaining economy.

Harris

• Harris’s unclear economic policies receive mixed responses.
• Her tax proposals, particularly on unrealized capital gains, are portrayed by critics as burdensome on the middle class and small businesses.
• Her supporters argue these measures will reduce wealth inequality, but critics frame her policies as economically harmful.
• Voters struggle between seeking economic equality and fearing increased government control.

Border Security

Border security is another critical area where Trump has an edge—43% to Harris's 41%. Frustration is high regarding Biden-Harris immigration policies.

Trump

• Trump’s tough stance on immigration resonates with voters concerned about resource allocation and national security.
• There are repeated grievances about Democrats prioritizing illegal immigrants over veterans and struggling Americans.
• Sentiment is urgent and concerned, with many voicing fears that current policies undermine public safety and strain social services.

Harris

• Harris’s role as “border czar” draws substantial criticism, with opponents framing her as ineffective in controlling the border.
• People say she’s indifferent to the consequences open borders have on American communities.
• There is public anger over drug trafficking and crime, with Harris getting blame as unwilling or unable to address the issue.
• Her supporters counter by advocating for policies of inclusivity and support for migrant communities.

Housing

Housing sentiment is balanced at 46% for both candidates. There is shared public frustration over affordability and living costs which transcends partisan lines.

• Rising housing expenses, coupled with inflation, fuel widespread discontent.
• Trump supporters argue his approach to deregulation and reduced taxes fostered a more affordable housing market.
• Harris supporters emphasize her efforts toward housing reforms aimed at long-term affordability and protections for vulnerable groups.
• However, proposed initiatives are overshadowed by the immediate economic strain Americans feel.

The top trending topics related to the election less than a week away double down on consistent voter priorities. Americans continue to focus on the economy, border security, national security, and identity politics.

📊ATLAS POLLS - SWING STATES

The latest Atlas polls in the swing states show significant leads for Trump in Pennsylvania, Georgia, and Arizona. Nevada, Wisconsin, and North Carolina show differences of less than 1 percentage point between the candidates. pic.twitter.com/84bMO8VzRZ

— AtlasIntel (@atlas_intel) October 29, 2024

Economic Concerns: Trump Advantage

Economic dissatisfaction is a consistent top voter issue. Widespread criticism of the Biden-Harris administration’s approach to inflation, taxation, and spending gives Trump the advantage.

Voters see rising living costs as a direct consequence of government spending, which they believe exacerbates economic instability. The see Trump-era policies as beneficial for growth and job creation, serving as a model for stability that many supporters wish to see reinstated.

Border Security: Trump Advantage

Frustration about the border remains a highly contentious topic. Harris critics highlight her failure to protect the border, connecting lax immigration policies to rising crime. Those who accuse Harris of prioritizing illegal immigrants over citizens cultivate fears of demographic changes that Democrats hope will favor them.

Trump’s promises of strict immigration reform and mass deportations attract supporters concerned with security and economic stability. His base is strongly in favor of his leadership on the border, calling for immediate change.

Global Tensions: Trump Advantage

High anxiety over national and global security also spotlights concerns about Harris’s ability to handle foreign policy. Voters particularly worry about Ukraine, Russia, and the Middle East.

Trump supporters say he is stabilizing figure who can prevent further conflicts, whereas Harris would provoke international tensions. This apprehension, heightened by recent escalation in the Middle East, positions the election as crucial to America's future security and global standing.

Ideological Divide and Identity Politics

In the ideological battle, conservatives say a Harris presidency threatens individual freedoms, often associating her policies with authoritarianism. Meanwhile, Harris supporters say Trump embodies extremism and intolerance—often calling him fascist or a Nazi.

The Trump rally in Madison Square Garden drew significant divisive rhetoric, intensifying tensions. The cultural and ideological divide leads both sides to believe the other is an existential threat to the country or damaging democracy.

The recent exposure of a fraudulent voter registration scheme in Lancaster, PA, has cast suspicion and draws scrutiny to election integrity. MIG Reports data shows Republicans suspect Democrats and Democrats suspect Republicans.

BREAKING: Lancaster, Pennsylvania officials have BUSTED a large-scale fraudulent voter registration scheme that includes thousands of applications with the same handwriting, fake signatures, false addresses, etc

They discovered the same scheme in other Pennsylvania counties.… pic.twitter.com/xiN320U9jY

— George (@BehizyTweets) October 25, 2024

Scandal Impacts

Data shows reactions to the exposed fraud include:

• Conservatives feel justified in election fraud concerns, viewing the scheme as proof of manipulation by Democrats.
• Distrust in electoral integrity remains high among Trump supporters, likely boosting conservative turnout.
• Progressives see the claims as exaggerated, voicing suspicion against Republicans who have claimed to gain ground in PA.
• They are concerned perceptions of disenfranchisement may reduce enthusiasm for left-leaning voters.

Community and Social Implications

• Division is exacerbated, with conservative and liberal factions becoming more isolated.
• Heightened tensions deepen fears of disenfranchisement on both sides.
• Fraud scandals may lead to stricter voting laws, which Republicans view as a positive and Democrats view as voter suppression.

Linguistic Polarization

• Conservatives use terms like "fraud," "deep state," and "patriotic duty," casting themselves as defenders of election integrity.
• Progressives focus on "oppression" and "voter rights," framing the incident as another threat to disenfranchised voters.
• Language reinforces a strong “us vs. them” mentality, reflecting deep ideological divides.

Lancaster Versus National Conversation

Nationwide discourse compared to discussion around Lancaster, Pennsylvania shows nuances separating topic emphasis. The fraud operation which was identified in Lancaster, PA often substantiates fears nationwide.

Narrative Focus and Voter Turnout

Lancaster

The fraudulent voter registration scheme reinforces conservative narratives around election manipulation by Democrats. This story validates Trump voter fears and mobilizes conservatives who view it as undermining trust in election results.

Progressives tend to see it as overblown, concerned more with voter suppression implications, which could dampen their turnout.

National

National discussions focus on early voting and the overarching integrity of vote counting, with early voting spurring intense emotions. Republicans view usually high early voting turnout as a positive indicator against alleged fraud.

Democrats emphasize the moral duty of voter participation. Both sides are mobilized, but national discussions emphasize distrust and potential suppression fatigue over isolated incidents dampening turnout.

Community and Social Implications

Lancaster

The scandal deepens community divides and damages already wavering trust, creating a potential for unrest over election results. Conservative and liberal factions are isolated within their own narratives, each feeling the other is compromising democracy.

National

Distrust is widespread across the country, compromising views of the voting process overall. There’s a pervasive sentiment that “the system is rigged,” driving community efforts to combat suppression or disenfranchisement. The ideological battleground where trust in electoral processes is nearly lost, fosters a climate ripe for divisive post-election responses.

Linguistic Polarization and Emotional Tone

Lancaster

Language is reactive and highly ideological, with conservative voices describing themselves as defenders of democracy. Progressive rhetoric portrays the scandal as another blow to their voting power. This “us vs. them” rhetoric highlights how each side perceives the other as a moral threat.

National

Emotional language nationally is focused on early voting’s existential stakes, with terms like “betrayal” and “Hitler” showing heightened alarm. Both sides use charged rhetoric, but there’s a strong emphasis on personal narratives of “being played” or “controlled.” There is a siege mentality, where voters describe electoral participation as a form of resistance.

A recent Virginia battle over removing 1,600 noncitizens from the voter rolls is causing partisan controversy. There are accusations that removing them will impact both voter turnout and civic mobilization. A federal judge subsequently ordered the 1,600 voters to be added back, causing Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin and 26 attorneys general to urge the Supreme Court to halt the ruling.

The decision has heightened political engagement, with both sides mobilizing to protect their version of democratic ideals. Some also point out that, for such only 1,600 votes, the high-octane battle reveals how tight the Virginia race is.

• Republicans generally view removing noncitizens as essential for safeguarding election integrity, rallying around themes of legality and security.
• Democrats often view the removal as an exclusionary tactic that risks disenfranchising communities and undermining democracy.

I'm just saying, the DOJ is not going to have an election-home-stretch PR disaster, in the form of trying to put noncitizens back on our voter rolls, over a mere 1500 registrations, because Harris is set to win by 5-7 points.

They know what I see: Virginia is a dead heat.

— Virginia Project (@ProjectVirginia) October 27, 2024

Turnout Concerns

Those who oppose removing noncitizens worry about a potential decline in turnout due to perceived disenfranchisement. Approximately 65-70% of those commenting on the situation indicate fear that removal could discourage voter participation. They especially emphasize low enthusiasm in diverse communities, framing this decision as adjacent to voter suppression.

Election Integrity Stakes

There is also robust support for preventing noncitizens from voting. This group discusses legality, national identity, and patriotism. They believe in maintaining a verified citizenry on the voter rolls. This group says purging noncitizens from the rolls is both legal and highly important to ensure election integrity. They argue objectors can only have one reason for keeping noncitizens on the rolls—election cheating.

Linguistic and Symbolic Impacts

The language used in discussions around this topic is divided. Opponents of removing voters use metaphors of battle and conflict, describing the situation as a “fight for democracy.” Have voice a sense of urgency and heightened stakes.

Those who want noncitizens barred from voting use phrases like “patriotic duty” and “integrity of the ballot.” They frame their position as a moral and national imperative, essential for safeguarding the democratic process.

The division in language contrasts “democracy” versus “national sovereignty,” both of which are pillars of partisan rhetoric.

Trump's Madison Square Garden (MSG) rally is spurring wild and fervent discussion just a week ahead of Election Day. The rally’s impact, intensified by strong media framing, shows sharp divides among Republicans, Democrats, and Independents. But MIG Reports data shows the mainstream media’s plan to demonize Trump voters may be backfiring.

The top discussion topics related to the rally are:

• A comedian who goes by the state name “Kill Tony” joked about Puerto Rico being a “floating island of garbage.”
• The media’s reaction comparing the rally to a 1939 pro-Nazi rally at MSG.
• Trump campaigning in blue states like New York, suggesting he wants to win them.
• High energy and triumph for the MAGA movement around the size of the rally.

At Trump’s Madison Square Garden rally, podcast host and comedian Kill Tony referred to Puerto Rico as a “floating island of garbage,” during his set.

Notably, four percent of Pennsylvanians are Puerto Rican.

Around 500,000 people. pic.twitter.com/txE3UD0QVE

— Yashar Ali 🐘 (@yashar) October 27, 2024

The Media’s Streisand Effect?

Mainstream media outlets presented Trump’s rally through a highly critical lens. Many compared it to a 1939 pro-Nazi rally at MSG, calling Trump’s event an echo of the same.

This framing doubles down on the Harris campaign’s recent messaging of Trump as a fascist and a Nazi sympathizer. However, the media’s portrayal drew different reactions across groups—either as a rallying cry or confirmation of a disingenuous media.

• Independent are Split: Independents and undecideds are divided, with 65% viewing the media’s portrayal as excessive, while 35% feel it’s justified.
• Republicans Dismiss Hysteria: Republicans overwhelmingly dismiss Nazi comparisons as unfair attacks. Many say the strategy is backfiring since dramatic and hysterical rhetoric sounds unserious to reasonable people.
• Democrats Love Nazi Comparisons: Most Democratic voters say the Nazi comparison is accurate and necessary. They see it as an obvious conclusion in light of their beliefs about Trump as a fascist.

Among persuadable voters and those who are not deeply partisan Democrats, most voters view the media’s rhetoric as over the top. However, because the Harris campaign and mainstream media are leaning so hard into the Nazi comparisons, more voters are taking to social media to express their criticism.

New York a Swing State?

At the rally, Vivek Ramaswamy stirred discussion with his assertion that “New York could become a swing state.” This remark, intended to convey optimism about Republican growth in traditionally Democratic areas, receives mixed reactions.

VIVEK: “Welcome to 2024. New York is a swing state.” 🔥 pic.twitter.com/Uqv4ScJ3bj

— Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) October 27, 2024

• Republicans mostly embrace Ramaswamy’s comments, seeing his assertion as a bold and energizing signal of shifting political tides. The idea of New York as a potential battleground boosts morale among Republicans.
• Democrats dismiss Ramaswamy’s statement as unrealistic, perceiving it as wishful thinking. Many Democratic commenters say New York’s demographics and liberal base will not be competitive any time soon.
• Independents are divided. Some appreciate the ambitious tone, viewing it as optimistic for political realignments. However, many also question the practicality of Republicans winning over a heavily liberal electorate.

AOC Feigns Outrage

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez was holding an online gaming rally with VP candidate Tim Walz during the MSG rally. Reacting to Tony Hinchcliffe’s Puerto Rico joke, AOC tweeted her offense, saying “4,000+ Puerto Ricans died” under Trump.

She framed the joke as representative of the MAGA movement’s disregard for marginalized communities, calling for Latino voters to share the offense with their families. However, AOC subsequently tweeted admitting she was not offended by the joke, but solely for Hinchcliffe’s willingness to go on stage for Trump.

And before people try to act like this is some PC overly sensitive nonsense, I’ve been to Kill Tony shows. I’m from the Bronx. I don’t give a shit about crude humor.

But don’t pretend that your support for Trump is a joke. Own it. You doing a set to support him. That’s a choice.

— Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (@AOC) October 27, 2024

• Democrats support AOC’s criticisms, voicing urgency for opposing Trump.
• Republicans mock and dismiss, AOC as politically motivated and disingenuous.
• Independents are split between being offended by the joke and viewing AOC’s reaction as trivial and dramatic.

Independents Mostly Distrust the Media

For Independents and undecideds, the MSG rally only became a point of interest following media characterizations. This led many to compare Trump’s populist messaging with the media’s critical framing.

• Nazi Rally: Around 65% of Independents dismiss the Nazi rally comparisons as media hyperbole. Only 35% accept it as a legitimate warning of rising extremism.
• Puerto Rico Joke: About 30% of discussions among Independents condemned the Puerto Rico joke, perceiving it as offensive to Latino voters.
• Potential Sway: 15% say they sense desperation among Democrats and that pushes them toward Trump.

Election Impact from Undecideds

The media’s framing generally mobilizes Democrats, reinforces Republican loyalty, and divides Independents. An already polarized electorate mostly responds with heightened partisanship. However, moderates and undecideds who are already skeptical of Democrats say the dramatic rhetoric turns them off.

• Trump Support: 55% of undecided voters say the media’s portrayal and Nazi comparisons makes them more likely to vote for Trump.
• Extremism Concern: 45% of undecideds lament inflammatory comments made during the event, suggesting it repulsed them from supporting Trump.

While many agree there are very few votes available to be swayed, MIG Reports data consistently shows undecideds likely leaning toward Trump.

Republicans are Unfazed

Unsurprisingly, Republicans are energized. They view turnout in a Democratic stronghold as a point of pride. They say the rally is a celebration of American solidarity and patriotism, framing criticisms as further proof of media bias against conservatives.

• Turnout Pride: Around 75% of Republicans are celebrating the success of the rally, seeing it as an affirmation of Trump’s draw and a sign of enduring support.
• Media Criticism: Roughly 65% believe the “Nazi rally” label is a biased attack, reinforcing views of Trump as a political outsider fighting establishment elites.
• Puerto Rico Joke: Only about 20% find the joke about Puerto Rico inappropriate, most dismiss the backlash as feigned outrage by Democrats like AOC.
• Unity: Many Republicans mention endorsements from minority groups, including Puerto Ricans, saying this refutes media portrayals of the rally as exclusionary.

Democrats Worked into a Froth

A whopping 80% of Democrats view the rally as a gathering of extremism. They call the rhetoric exclusionary and inflammatory, using the Puerto Rico joke as a prime example. They almost wholly embrace the media’s framing, presenting an urgent call to the ideological battle against Trump and his base.

• Hate Speech: 80% of Democrats see the rally as promoting hate speech, viewing the “Nazi rally” comparison as an accurate description.
• Focus on Mobilization: 70% call for strong voter turnout, using the rally as a call to reject Trump and get people to the ballot box.
• A Thread of Hope: Roughly 65% of Democrats say the rally’s tone could alienate undecided voters. They hope undecided voters will side with them, ignoring those who feel alienated by the media’s rhetoric.

Social media discussion around Donald Trump’s potential to win the popular vote, regardless of who takes the electoral win, focuses on turnout, identity, and emotional appeals.

While Trump’s candidacy motivates increased engagement among supporters, the discussion themes hint broader societal rifts and a collective urgency to decide the country’s trajectory.

CNN says Trump may win the popular vote too. Democrat panic is fully setting in: pic.twitter.com/6HpBnly06R

— Clay Travis (@ClayTravis) October 25, 2024

Trump 48, Harris 48 in the final Times/Siena national poll of the campaign.
Trump by 1 when minor party candidates are listedhttps://t.co/auywQik4jc

— Nate Cohn (@Nate_Cohn) October 25, 2024

Rising Turnout and Heightened Urgency

MAGA voters are increasingly vocal about the importance of voting, urging a sense of duty to preserve traditional American values and law and order. They use phrases like “MUST win” and “we are not going to allow that,” creating a rallying call to participate in the electoral process.

This sense of urgency signals a tactical shift toward proactive participation, where Democrats have previously had strong get-out-the-vote efforts. Republicans are also embracing voting early as a countermeasure to Democratic influence on the election process. For supporters, voting has taken on the weight of defending core values against a creeping progressive agenda.

However, the mobilization isn’t exclusive to Trump supporters as Democrats also show up to vote early. However, while Democrats are committed to opposing Trump, some voice disillusionment, feeling their votes may be nullified in red strongholds.

Some Democrats perceive voting as an exercise in futility, indicating negative Harris sentiment might dampen turnout. At this point in the race, Republicans appear more galvanized, with Democrats battling pockets of disengagement.

Loyalty and Distrust

Trump voters want law and order, saying progressive policies undermine community safety. Trump’s image as a protector of American values resonates with those who feel societal order is at risk.

There is a sense of loyalty, strengthened by ideological allegiances. For many, supporting Trump is a commitment to American tradition over radical progressivism. They frame the election as a choice between core values and political elitism. They view Trump as the “lesser of two evils” in the battle to maintain American values.

Many profoundly distrust election integrity in many critical states. Persistent narratives around “stolen elections” and system rigging tell a story of corruption. MAGA voters hope for a renewed defense against institutional dishonesty. This belief mobilizes Trump’s base and reinforces anti-establishment views, where voting is a stand against corruption and for truth.

What Voters are Saying

Voters discuss this election as a “battle,” “fight,” or against “traitors.” There is emotional weight, emphasizing conflict in viewpoints. Many present the election as a struggle against existential threats and voting as imperative in a clash of ideologies. Trump supporters often see themselves as defenders of American principles.

Emotional rhetoric also feeds into anti-establishment sentiments. Derogatory phrases such as “legacy media” and “deep state” frame traditional institutions as antagonists working against the people. This framing makes Trump a champion of truth in the face of institutional oppression.

Democratic Disillusionment and Early Voting

Some Democrats voice concerns about the effectiveness of their votes. This sentiment diverges from typical mobilization patterns, suggesting apathy or despair may curb Democratic turnout in certain areas.

Meanwhile, GOP voters are embracing early voting, which is another unusual shift. Typically a Democratic strategy, early voting is being championed by Trump supporters who view it critical in this election. This shift reveals a tactical adjustment and signals enthusiasm among Republicans to engage in new voting behaviors as part of a strategic effort to win.

With just a few more days until the election, MIG Reports data shows Donald Trump leading Kamala Harris 52% to 45% and growing stronger. Recent polls suggest Trump’s message of economic recovery is resonating among an increasingly dissatisfied electorate, while the Harris campaign shows all signs of collapse and panic.

Economy Tops the Charts

Voter frustrations with inflation and the rising cost-of-living continue to dominate conversations. Americans feel the Biden-Harris administration has failed to remedy the economic situation. They also express doubt and confusion about Harris’s campaign proposals for the next four years.

• Inflation and Everyday Expenses: Soaring prices for groceries and gas are straining American families. Many recall the lower cost of living under Trump’s administration, leading them to voice support for his return to office.
• Independent Swing: Independents are leaning toward Trump 2-to-1, showing decisive momentum shift in the last few months. These voters prioritize economic stability over party loyalty and view Trump as the best solution.

Clarity and Vision Versus Confusion

Trump’s message of “law and order” and promises to “Make America Great Again” once more resonate strongly with voters who seek decisive, pro-America leadership.

• Restoring National Pride: Trump is a rallying figure around strong national pride, low taxation, and economic recovery. Harris’s focus on social issues is not resonating with voters who cannot afford their bills.
• Election Integrity Worries: Trump’s emphasis on election security is energizing his base. Meanwhile, Harris faces challenges overcoming accusations of elitism and failing to clearly make her presidential pitch to Americans.

Swing State Dynamics

In critical swing states, the economic landscape is tilting the scales in Trump’s favor. Swing states such as Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Ohio show Independents breaking for Trump, often revolving around the economy.

• Economic Concerns: Voters in swing states want a Trump economy. They see his tax policy and trade-focused strategies as essential to addressing inflation.
• Discontent with Democratic Messaging: Harris’s focus on abortion and social justice is not a high enough priority for undecided voters in these states. They demand clear answers on concrete economic plans.
• Turnout and Enthusiasm Gaps: Trump’s rallies in these regions attract large, motivated crowds, suggesting high voter turnout potential. Harris’s campaign events show lower energy, particularly among young and minority voters.

Down-Ballot Implications

This momentum isn’t limited to the presidential election—down-ballot races are also reflecting similar sentiments, with an evident lean toward Republican candidates.

• House and Senate: Republican candidates, particularly in districts hard-hit by inflation, are benefiting from Trump’s economic message, showing potential for flipping critical seats in November.
• Conservative Resurgence: MAGA down-ballot candidates are leveraging his momentum, fueling voter mobilization in suburban and rural areas. Even some Democratic candidates are beginning to use friendly messaging toward Trump.
• Split-Ticket Voting: Some voters also express a willingness to split their tickets to balance local needs with national considerations.

Kamala Harris, once heralded by many as progressive and resilient, is now facing intense scrutiny from supporters and external political figures. Allegations of plagiarism, compounded by her tenuous hold on certain voter demographics, stir skepticism even among Democrats.

MIG Reports analysis of social media discussions shows a fracture among her supporters, oscillating between ardent loyalty and disillusionment. Her alignment—or lack thereof—with other Democratic leaders also continues to raise questions.

EXCLUSIVE: In 2007, Kamala Harris plagiarized pages of Congressional testimony from a Republican colleague.

And in 2012, she plagiarized a fictionalized story about sex trafficking—but presented it as a real case.

It's not just one book; it's a career-long pattern.🧵 pic.twitter.com/ZiHkzxTg4r

— Aaron Sibarium (@aaronsibarium) October 22, 2024

I'm usually pretty skeptical about plagiarism claims, but the case made here about Kamala's 2009 book on criminal justice is very strong. Major sections just copied wholesale with no attribution: https://t.co/kNFx8LoTkF

— Glenn Greenwald (@ggreenwald) October 14, 2024

Testing Democratic Loyalty

Harris supporters have mixed emotions in response to the plagiarism allegations. Some simply dismiss them, while others express serious doubt.

• 35-48% remain supportive, brushing off the accusations as politically charged attacks meant to damage her influence and reputation.
• 25-34 are disappointed, struggling to reconcile the allegations with their previously held perceptions of Harris’s integrity.
• Critical voices hint at an underlying fragility in her base, where loyalty wavers under the weight of unrelenting controversies.
• 14-20% are indifferent and, while supporters, they see the allegations as part of the “usual” political spectacle.
• Indifference may also suggest a pragmatic acceptance of flaws in a similar way to Trump supporters remaining unmoved by recent allegations.

Major publications like the L.A. Times and Washington Post have also broken tradition by withholding endorsement. This hints at a growing establishment belief that Harris cannot win. Her exclusion from high-profile endorsements and the swing-state campaign discourse heightens this sense of resignation.

NEWS: The Washington Post will not be making an endorsement in this year's presidential race, the editor of the editorial pages has told colleagues at a tense meeting this morning

THREAD AND LINK: https://t.co/papQiStKDC

— David Folkenflik (@davidfolkenflik) October 25, 2024

Scoop: The LA Times will not endorse a candidate for president this year, a decision that was made by the paper's owner Patrick Soon-Shiong. The LA Times has endorsed Democratic presidential candidates each cycle since 2008 https://t.co/uS3hETkLQV

— Max Tani (@maxwelltani) October 22, 2024

Coping and Reframing

Some Democrats frame the plagiarism accusations as a manufactured controversy orchestrated by partisan actors. The persistent refrain of “political hit job” or “treacherous media” underscores a belief that Harris is being unjustly targeted.

The narrative that suggests media and rivals are weaponizing these allegations against Harris is often a coping mechanism, fostering a sense of solidarity against perceived injustice.

As sentiment toward Harris plummets, down-ballot Democratic candidates in swing states are beginning to promote their alignment with certain Trump-like positions. Harris’s presence is conspicuously absent from their campaigns, corroborating fracture withing the party. A defensive framing of Harris’s campaign suggests recognition that her influence within the party is waning.

Every Dem Senator featuring Trump in their ads should be asked if they agree with this. https://t.co/iNRxDtvyI9

— Peter Towey (@petermtowey) October 24, 2024

Around 30% of the discussion attempts to redirect the conversation toward her middle-class advocacy and other progressive achievements. By emphasizing her policy work over the plagiarism allegations, supporters attempt to gloss over the controversy. The media is also noticeably absent in discussions and reporting on plagiarism allegations.

Resilience or Denial?

Harris defenders use language of defiance and resilience, with terms like “manipulative narrative” and “smear tactics” in her defense.

They focus on her advocacy as a “fight for justice” and use inclusive language like “together we can” to create a collective identity. This rhetoric reveals reluctance to confront the implications of the plagiarism allegations head-on.

People use emotionally charged language—often bitter and at times hostile—suggesting frustration about Harris’s electability and leadership. Expressions of indignation, combined with sentiments of abandonment reveal the sense of doom many Harris supporters seem to be adopting.

A CNN town hall with Kamala Harris, hosted by Anderson Cooper, foments skepticism and disillusionment toward her candidacy. Across the board, responses indicate her performance failed to sway voters who are already critical of her. Many vocally express their preferences for Trump or suggest they will abstain from voting.

😂 David Axelrod on Kamala's Town Hall: "When she doesn’t want to answer, she goes to 'WORD SALAD CITY.'"

Anderson asked about Israel—“Would she be stronger than Trump?” After seven minutes, we were still lost in the salad and never got to the dressing! #CNNTownHall pic.twitter.com/vyDl3C5y6r

— Beats in Brief (@beatsinbrief) October 24, 2024

Propensity to Vote

MIG Reports data shows a strong inclination away from support for Kamala Harris. Only about 20% of online discussions express any intent to vote for her. Even these comments often mixed support with a sense of reluctance or criticism.

Between 50-69% voice a preference other than Harris—mainly Trump. About 25% say they are completely indifferent to voting at all, citing feelings of disillusionment with the entire political landscape. These individuals are frustrated with both major parties and feeling alienated by the current state of U.S. politics.

Kamala Harris: "I may not have the answer as soon as you ask it about a specific policy sometimes because I'm gonna want to research it...I'm kind of a nerd sometimes ha ha ha ha ha! I confess!" pic.twitter.com/Rsa7zRQJvn

— Townhall.com (@townhallcom) October 24, 2024

Calcified Perspectives

Most voters responding to Harris’s town halls have already formed strong opinions. They say her performance only solidifies these existing views. Her answers during the broadcast entrench long-held frustrations, particularly around her credibility and leadership.

Many also say her media appearances only confirm their intention to vote for Trump or another candidate. Issues like immigration, economic management, and her consistent evasiveness during when questioned only further cement negative views.

Those who have changed their minds say their perspectives have shifted from neutrality or mild curiosity to one of firm opposition. For these voters, Harris’s responses—particularly on issues like the border and economic policies—lack depth and authenticity, leading them to reject her candidacy altogether.

First-Person vs. Third-Person

An analysis of first-person versus third-person language usage sheds light on the emotional investment and detachment voters feel toward Harris.

First-person comments are highly personal, voicing frustration or disillusionment with things like, “I will vote for Trump,” “I vehemently disagree with Harris.” These comments frame reactions within the voter’s own experiences and personal stakes. This suggests people view the election as having direct consequences for their lives.

Most of the discussion is presented using third-person language, using a more detached and analytical tone. Voters critique Harris’s candidacy from a distance, frequently referring to her in broad terms like, “Harris is incompetent,” “Her campaign is a disaster.” This shift puts distance between their personal experience and Harris as a symbol of the political establishment.

Kamala’s town hall was so bad even CNN is calling her out? pic.twitter.com/h2NPy0iSUk

— JOSH DUNLAP (@JDunlap1974) October 24, 2024

How Voter Talk About Harris

Voters use words like “liar,” “fraud,” and “disaster” to describe Harris, painting her as an ineffective politician and failed leader. They say they feel betrayal and that Harris and the Democratic Party are out of touch or elitist.

Comments focusing on specific policy critiques—such as Harris’s stance on border security—often contain fear-based rhetoric, invoking terms like “drug cartels” and “terrorists” to amplify a sense of urgency and failure. Meanwhile, more reflective comments question Harris’s integrity and authenticity, with some calling for greater accountability and transparency from political leaders in general.

jesus -- Dana Bash says she's hearing from people that Harris failed "to close the deal." These folks are gonna bothsides us straight into fascism. pic.twitter.com/XwGpxWKj8q

— Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) October 24, 2024