Following Joe Biden’s sudden withdrawal from the presidential election, media outlets and Democrats have been working hard to position VP Kamala Harris as a formidable challenger to Donald Trump for president. At this early stage in her campaign, many are unclear on how robust her support will be on election day. MIG Reports data on head-to-head comparisons of Trump versus Harris after the first few days of her campaign suggests it may be an uphill battle for Democrats, despite presumably successfully ousting their nominee.

• The day after Biden’s withdrawal, Kamala Harris mentions regarding the presidential election surpassed mentions of Trump 25,000 to 24,000, but subsequently dropped.
• Approval for Harris as the presidential candidate also initially surpassed trump 49% to 44%. But in the following days the gap narrowed to only two points as Trump gained and Harris dropped.
• The percentage of support for Harris versus Trump shows them both at 47% nationally, but Trump has a slight edge in swing states with 49% support to Harris’s 46%.

Kamala Harris

The Youth Vote

Younger voters show a degree of skepticism toward Kamala’s nomination, expressing apprehensions about the transparency of the process. The adherence to procedural democratic norms is crucial for this group, and any deviation triggers calls for more open, participatory processes within the party.

Phrases like "party elites choosing," "delegate process," and "open convention" signify a pushback from segments of the Democratic base who feel their wishes were bypassed. These detractors worry anointing Harris without broader grassroots input may alienate certain voter groups, potentially impacting turnout and enthusiasm in the general election. These themes also seem to counter media claims that Harris's viral "brat summer" influence may not be completely genuine.

Some young progressives show enthusiasm for Harris's liberal stance and representation, marking her as a candidate who symbolizes progressivism and memes. However, the far left of this demographic has concerns that Harris will not push the policy boundaries as far as they desire.

Geography

In battleground and swing states, there is pointed concern about Harris’s ability to capture the critical moderate and Independent vote essential for the general election. Democratic sentiment from these critical regions suggests a mix of cautious acceptance and pragmatic support, recognizing the necessity of a strong candidate to counter Trump's influence.

In Democratic strongholds and among “chronically online” voters, there is a pronouncement of excitement for Kamala’s quirky appeal. This demographic also appreciates her diversity.

Swing states and red states especially criticize Harris on immigration issues and economic concerns. Many polls, and MIG Reports data, show Harris trailing Trump in important states like Pennsylvania where she faces a 46% to 48% deficit.

Key Issues for Harris

Intra-Party Disagreements

Some in the Democratic base focus on her past prosecutorial actions, saying she aligns too closely with the Establishment. Their disillusionment is compounded by the idea that she was “installed” by leaders rather than elected. This is a particular sore point for progressives who felt unfairness over Democratic leaders pushing Bernie Sanders out.

Black Lives Matter progressives have also expressed dissatisfaction, demanding an open primary to allow for public participation in the nomination process. They say Harris’s ascent to the top of the ticket sidesteps true democratic engagement.

Many bring up Harris's historical campaign performance, revisiting her 2020 presidential bid and noting she dropped out before any primary votes were cast. This fuels skepticism about her electability and support base.

The Economy

There is deep frustration from most Americans about the possibility of Harris continuing Biden’s economic policies. People talk about jobs, high inflation, gas prices, and expensive groceries, describing their own economic struggles.

Critiques often link Harris directly to deepening economic woes, highlighting a belief that her policies will continue to exacerbate everyday financial burdens. Voters also emphasize concerns over rising national debt and deficit spending, which they associate with increased inflation rates and economic instability.

Border Security

The U.S. border is also a deep concern aggravating Harris’s negative sentiment. Voters discuss record illegal border crossings and increased economic strain with Harris as “border czar.” People attribute the border crisis to policy failures under her watch. Many on the right also highlight the fact that mainstream media outlets are now attempting to deny Harris’s role as border czar.

Harris’s past actions as a prosecutor and her handling of immigration issues are frequent focal points of dissatisfaction, painting her as ineffective and incompetent. There is also significant disdain for her actions regarding President Biden as people accuse her of covering up Biden’s declining health.

Israel-Hamas Conflict

Supporters and critics alike mention her decision not to attend Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s address to Congress. Most view it as aligning more with pro-Palestinian sentiments than with Israel.

Many comments accuse Harris of giving Hamas a “PR victory.” This perception worsened by her prioritizing meetings viewed as less significant, such as with a sorority group. At the same time, pro-Palestine progressives express dissatisfaction toward the Biden-Harris administration for giving too much support to Israel.

Generally, voters worry about Harris’s ability to manage other sensitive international security issues like the Ukraine-Russia war. People say she offers limited experience in foreign affairs, questioning capacity to handle global security challenges effectively.

Donald Trump

The Youth Vote

Young voters from 18-25 present an interesting demographic for Trump. Many display a profound disillusionment with conventional politics. While much of this demographic expresses disdain for Trump's policies and demeanor, they also seem to dislike Kamala.

Online conversation suggests skepticism toward Trump, with terms like “misogynist” and “racist” frequently mentioned in discussions about his actions and rhetoric. Harris, while facing critiques from the left on her prosecutorial past, resonates more positively with themes of inclusion, diversity, and progressive change.

Younger conservatives, a growing cohort, view Trump as a strong, non-conformist leader, with comments lauding his boldness and critique of the current administration's policies. Supporters in this age group emphasize Trump's promise to restore economic stability, pointing to lower inflation and job opportunities during his tenure.

There is also a noticeable trend among young liberals and Independents who question Trump’s image as a hostile figure. The sentiment "President Trump doesn’t think young people are stupid" surfaces, suggesting a disconnect in how leftists and the media portray young people.

Geography

Trump commands a significant following in rural and certain suburban areas, particularly in the South and the Midwest. Here, voters appreciate his economic policies and business acumen. Urban centers and coastal regions typically support Harris.

Areas with robust manufacturing or energy sectors tend to view Trump’s deregulations and economic policies more favorably. Urban regions heavily affected by tariff retaliations express stronger disapproval.

Key Issues for Trump

Economy and Inflation

A consistent theme favoring Trump centers on his administration keeping inflation low, implementing tax cuts, and maintaining a secure and prosperous economy. Many supporters tout the low inflation rates during his presidency, comparing them favorably to higher rates under the current administration.

Conversely, critics of Trump highlight issues such as the longer-term effects of his tax cuts. They argue cuts disproportionately favor the wealthy and increase the national deficit. Arguments against Trump often include supply chain and manufacturing issues during COVID.

Government Corruption

Many conversations express outrage and suspicion toward the federal agencies responsible for Trump's security. They are furious about the failure and neglect in protecting him during an attempted assassination.

People decry former Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle as a symbol of broader systemic issues in government agencies, celebrating her resignation. The public's reaction emphasizes questions about the integrity and competency of federal agencies, with comments frequently accusing them of corruption and ineptitude.

Numerous conversations also speculate about conspiracy theories, proposing the assassination attempt was an "inside job" or part of a larger "deep state" maneuver against Trump. These theories are fueled by inconsistent or false statements made by government officials, reinforcing the perception of a cover-up or evasion.

Online discussions about Vice President Kamala Harris and her role as “Border Czar” under President Joe Biden is notably critical and with widespread disapproval. The public prominently questions her efficacy and commitment to addressing the complex issues at the southern border, often emphasizing her lack of communication with top Border Patrol officials like Jason Owens and Raul Ortiz. This perceived neglect fuels a narrative of incompetence and inaction.

What People Are Saying

Top topics in these conversations include illegal immigration, crime rates associated with migrant populations, and the economic or social impacts of border policies. Words and phrases such as "illegal immigrants," "cartels," "border crisis," and "fentanyl deaths" frequently surface, underscoring the public's focus on security threats and their repercussions on American communities.

The narrative also revisits Harris's past comments from 2019, where she dismissed the idea of a border crisis. This exacerbates the current sentiment that she is detached from the reality on the ground.

The Trump campaign’s efforts to spotlight Harris's border record drive many recent conversations. Trump’s calls with influencers like Border Patrol Union Presidents Brandon Judd and Paul Perez reinforce the critique of Harris as Border Czar. Recent Trump PAC advertisements Biden-Harris border failures, highlighting comments from Harris supporting decriminalizing illegal immigration and abolishing ICE.

Media Try to Change the Narrative

Many Americans, who are already disillusioned with the mainstream media, are pointing out rushed attempts to change Harris’s border narrative. Outlets are now claiming that Biden never appointed Harris as “Border Czar,” despite the very same outlets reporting on in at the time.

CALLED IT. These pathetic Democrat hacks are the most predictably dishonest people on earth. https://t.co/hzft99D9Zg pic.twitter.com/iox1dlRgGR

— Sean Davis (@seanmdav) July 24, 2024

Axios in particular is facing severe backlash for retroactively correcting its own reporting calling Harris Border Czar. People rip Axios and other mainstream outlets attempting to walk back their own reporting in efforts to improve Harris’s image. Voters, especially on the right, accuse mainstream media of shaping politicized narrative and lying to Americans.

Journalists were calling Kamala the border czar until like five minutes ago. Don't let the media gaslight you. pic.twitter.com/oveoFcBn4G

— Bill D'Agostino (@Banned_Bill) July 24, 2024

Sentiment Trends

Voters mostly feel Harris’s tenure as a failure. They attribute severe consequences like increased crime, profit gains for cartels, and widespread fentanyl deaths to her Border Czar policies. The criticism intensifies with claims of Harris's policies harming Special Education services due to resource strains caused by illegal immigration.

If the critical sentiment towards Harris solidifies among undecided voters, it is likely to hurt her presidential campaign given border security is a high-priority issue.

On Monday, Kamala Harris made her first public appearance as the presumptive Democratic nominee for president after securing the delegates needed. It was also reported that she raised $81 million dollars within the first 24 hours of her campaign. However, some voice skepticism that reported “grassroots” enthusiasm is not being propped up by Democratic leaders and the media. MIG Reports data shows a sharp divide in public sentiment and reveals several key topics and trends.

The Establishment’s Candidate

Discussions focus on how rapidly Harris secured endorsements and delegates, emphasizing the notion of party machinery consolidating around her. Many discussions touch on swift leadership maneuvering to unite behind her campaign after President Biden's sudden exit.

People often bring up the fact that state Democratic Party delegations, such as those from California, New York, and Ohio, have unanimously endorsed her, propelling her closer to securing the nomination. Keywords like "Harris," "delegates," "endorsement," and "Democratic nomination" permeate discussion.

Some voters express frustration with the Democratic Party's internal dynamics. They accuse Party elites of unilaterally deciding the nominee and usurping the primary process. Views of "no primary votes necessary, just greed, corruption, and brute force," exacerbate the perception of a Democratic Party takeover by elites. Keywords like "elites," "donor money," "undemocratic," and "corrupt" highlight this unease with how the nomination is being orchestrated.

The lack of endorsement from former President Barack Obama and explicit support from other significant Democrats like Rep. Rashida Tlaib, who calls for an “open nominating convention,” inject complexities into the discourse. This suggests internal party contention and feeds speculation on Harris’s viability.

Sentiment Trends

There is excitement and enthusiasm among many Democrats who had begun to feel demoralized by Joe Biden’s prospect. Harris supporters interpret her fundraising success as a sign of strong voter enthusiasm. They highlight her historical candidacy, celebrating her potential to be the first biracial woman to lead a major-party ticket.

Endorsements from influential Democratic figures, such as Nancy Pelosi, and the swift backing by Democratic delegates, further boost positive sentiment.

On the other hand, there is significant skepticism and criticism. Detractors question her ability to win a general election against a formidable opponent like Donald Trump. Criticisms often focus on her past performance in the 2020 primaries, where she dropped out early, polling at just 3.4%. The backlash also stems from Harris's perceived alignment with the "establishment," causing some to feel disenfranchised by what they see as an undemocratic coronation process.

Vice President Kamala Harris's nomination as the presumptive Democratic candidate has stirred widespread and polarized discussions among undecided and Independent American voters. Online reflections show insights into what issues are resonating most strongly with the public and how their sentiments are moved by these political shifts.

Key Topics

Discussions regarding Harris's nomination include her qualifications, past political record, endorsements, her stance on international affairs concerning Israel, and her unserious public image. The former California Attorney General and current Vice President brings a complex political history that motivates both criticism and support.

The topics of her past prosecutorial record, her performance and dropping out of the 2020 Democratic primary, and her relationship with influential political figures like Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton, stir significant conversation.

Trending Topics

1. Trust and Credibility: Public discussions reveal a chronic struggle with trust in Harris's candidacy, driven by her past actions and perceived opportunistic alliances.
2. Democratic Process Integrity: Many conversations highlight a belief that the delegate-driven nomination process lacks true democratic spirit, raising fears about elitist overreach.
3. Foreign Policy and Ideological Stance: Harris’s international politics, particularly concerning Israel, exacerbates ideological divides within her own Party.

Sentiments diverge significantly based on these topics. For instance, Harris's prosecutorial record surfaces frequently, with some viewing her as experienced in law enforcement and others criticizing her for disproportionate incarceration rates among Black Americans. This discrepancy impacts voter sentiment broadly, influencing trust and support levels.

Anti-Israel and Pro-Palestine

One of the most contentious topics in the last few days has been Harris's refusal to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu. This brings accusations of a "pro-Hamas" and "pro-terrorist" position from the potential new president.

The public split on this subject profoundly impacts sentiment. Supporters defend her stance as a sign of a balanced, critical perspective on Middle Eastern politics. Critics use it as evidence of anti-Israel bias, shaking the confidence of pro-Israel voters and sparking fears about perceived Democratic Party radicalism.

Professional Politician

The Harris campaign's swift move to secure endorsements and delegates after Biden's withdrawal injects both hope and cynicism into the public dialogue. Supporters see this maneuver as a necessary consolidation to maintain Party unity and enhance election efficacy, thus lifting sentiment. Critics, however, perceive it as undemocratic and manipulative, undermining faith in the electoral process, thus decreasing sentiment. Pelosi's subsequent endorsement of Harris, however, served to fan growing flames of enthusiasm among Democratic voters.

Another pivotal topic concerns her failure to secure primary delegates in past races. This argument surfaces frequently among detractors, framing her as an untested candidate lacking broad voter support, which dampens her acceptance among undecided voters. Many also argue he ascent to the candidacy is an affront to every Democrat voter who cast votes for Joe Biden.

Establishment’s Pick

Notably, the initial lack of endorsement from figures like Barack Obama and Nancy Pelosi created an air of uncertainty in the immediate aftermath of Biden’s withdrawal. This image of Party disarray impacts voter sentiment variably. While some interpret it as a strategic move to prevent premature influence, others read it as a lack of full confidence, stirring unease. With

Financial backing and the role of influential figures like George Soros also come under scrutiny. Harris's significant war chest generates enthusiasm about her capacity to mount a robust campaign but also fuels skepticism about undue influence by wealthy donors and political elites, dampening trust among voters wary of corporate sway in politics.

Sentiment Trends

Increasing Sentiment

Expressions of Party unity, endorsements from key leaders like Pelosi and Obama affirming her leadership, and narratives highlighting her policy acumen and experience tend to increase sentiment. Positive engagement stems from the portrayal of Harris as a candidate capable of evolving and addressing deep-seated issues within the party and nationwide.

Decreasing Sentiment

Dialogues stressing undemocratic practices, her past prosecutorial record, perceived leftist radicalism, and negative comparisons with other potential candidates push sentiment down. These criticisms suggest reversing negative sentiment will require Harris addressing concerns about fairness, transparency, and her political record comprehensively.

With an apparent swell of support rising for the fledgling Kamala Harris presidential campaign, Americans may not be taking politics seriously. Following the first presidential debate, which was disastrous for Joe Biden, speculation grew about the possibility of Kamala Harris taking his place.

Kamala is a Political Meme

Previous MIG Reports analysis showed Harris surpassing Biden’s approval on several important issues, despite both battling negative sentiment. A wave of nakedly ironic support from Democratic voters embraced the Vice President’s meme potential, referencing coconut pills and the “khive.”

Now that Joe Biden has released an announcement of his plans to withdraw from the race, Democratic support for VP Harris seems to be surging. The ensuing dramatic and immediate shift in voter support and sentiment raises questions about how voters assign loyalty and make voting decisions.

The Kamala memes now include supporters, whether genuine or ironic, saying “Kamala is Brat,” referring to a meme where “brat” means not caring what haters say and having a relaxed demeanor. This appears to be an effort to rehabilitate Kamala's image as an awkward and cringeworthy public speaker. A viral meme video promoting “Brat Kamala" kicked off the enthusiasm.

why did I stay up till 3am making a von dutch brat coconut tree edit featuring kamala harris and why can’t I stop watching it on repeat pic.twitter.com/hqcmerD1Pb

— ryan (@ryanlong03) July 3, 2024

This was followed by gay supporters on Fire Island sporting brat Kamala midriff tops, CNN discussing brat Kamala, and even the official Kamala HQ X profile using brat font and colors as the header image.

BRAT Kamala shirts already on Fire Island. The gays move SO FAST pic.twitter.com/Zq3e9yctzv

— Michael Del Moro (@MikeDelMoro) July 21, 2024

CNN talks about Kamala Harris’ ‘brat’ themed campaign.

pic.twitter.com/lBjbVEtZNf

— Pop Base (@PopBase) July 22, 2024

Public interest appears more fixated on political drama, conspiracy theories, and memes rather than concrete policy positions or administrative decisions. Could the heightened and dramatic sequence of events, largely playing out on X, be driving a caricatured and meme-driven attitude toward American politics?

Democrats Turn on a Dime

Democrats who support Harris tend to emphasize unity and strategic continuity, endorsing Harris as a capable leader who can pick up where Biden leaves off. This, however, contradicts previous rampant ironic support many Democratic voters expressed toward VP Harris just weeks ago.

Overall American sentiment reveals an underlying tension within both parties. Across partisan lines, Americans largely view Harris as an extension of Joe Biden's leftwing policy record. However, there is an emphasis on her being "more liberal" and "less competent."

Those expressing enthusiastic support for her candidacy may view the progressive agenda as more important than candidate specifics. They laud her long political career, ignoring its past controversies like her track record as a tough-on-crime prosecutor.

Many also tout Hariss’s historic potential as the first female, AAPI, and black president of the United States. This support emphasis suggests the VP’s voter base places high priority identity politics as a critical driving factor in voting decisions.

• In the last two days, online mentions of both Joe Biden and Kamala Harris exploded, surpassing 40,000 for each one. Discussion volume for Kamala Harris also outpaced mentions of Joe Biden.
• Both Biden and Harris enjoyed a slight bump in sentiment, however neither crossed 50%.

Accusations Against Republicans

Democratic voters voice frustration, particularly toward Republican critiques of the Democratic nomination process. Commenters prepare for anticipated claims of unfairness from Republicans about Biden's endorsement and the highly irregular method of making Harris the Democratic candidate.

Progressives say previous Republican behaviors undercut their current arguments. They say things like, "Get ready for Republicans to all tell Democrats how unfair it is that our elected nominee isn't our elected nominee." This suggests a feeling of preemptive defense and a voter willingness to accept Democratic leadership decisions, despite previous contradictions.

Additionally, the anticipation of intensified challenges Harris will face due to "racism" and "misogyny" are taking center stage. Predicted to face unprecedented levels of racial and gender-based hostility, Democratic sentiment here shows willingness to prioritize identity politics over consistency. This anticipation of bias against Harris also ties into anxieties about how her leadership will be accepted across different societal strata.

A conspicuous trend is the polarized nature of the comments, absent of middle-ground perspectives. This polarization hints at an electorate either firmly in support of or staunchly against Kamala Harris, with few expressing nuanced or mixed views. The passionate language used in both supportive and critical comments suggests voters are highly engaged but also deeply divided.

Will Underlying Skepticism Bubble Up?

American voters' knowledge ranges considerably when it comes to policy specifics that Kamala Harris may promote. Conversation substance suggests many are likely uninformed about the granular details. Public discourse reveals a significant focus on high-profile, emotionally charged issues rather than on comprehensive policy analysis.

When Kamala Harris is mentioned, it often centers around her reactions to contentious topics like the bombing of Gaza and the associated humanitarian crises. Public discussions also frequently critique her past support for certain causes, such as fundraising efforts criticized for allegedly aiding violent groups. These conversations suggest progressives, despite vocal unity, may not truly support the policies of a potential Harris administration.

Conversely, critics voice concerns about Harris's capability to secure a victory in the presidential race, many drawing parallels to Hillary Clinton's 2016 campaign. Doubts about her leadership on issues like immigration are prevalent, with comments noting her lack of communication with key figures like the Border Patrol Chief. Criticism also touches on her perceived inability to garner wider appeal, with suggestions that she might struggle against entrenched societal biases and the strength of her Republican opponents.

Democratic Voters Fall in Line

The narrative of Biden being "pushed out" by his party or the “deep state” adds another layer of complexity. While some express sadness and nostalgia for Biden's tenure, the swift rallying behind Harris suggests the Democratic camp is willing to move according to leadership direction.

The conversation about voter engagement and mobilization is prevalent, with many emphasizing the need for unity and increased voter turnout to secure a victory for Harris. This sentiment is reinforced by calls to action from various factions within the Democratic Party and allied movements, showcasing a concerted effort to maintain momentum.

The discussions about Biden possibly being ousted by his Party seems to alarm a segment of Democrats. However, many who very recently expressed disgust at potential political maneuvers seem to be changing their tune. This includes Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez who livestreamed her criticisms of Party leaders for pressuring Joe Biden to withdraw—only to delete the video and tweet her support for Harris.

Kamala Harris will be the next President of the United States. I pledge my full support to ensure her victory in November.

Now more than ever, it is crucial that our party and country swiftly unite to defeat Donald Trump and the threat to American democracy.

Let’s get to work.

— Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (@AOC) July 22, 2024

Americans are reacting to Joe Biden’s tweet announcing his decision to drop out of the presidential election with strong emotions. There is an unusually chaotic and less patterned conversation landscape. MIG Reports data reveals two distinct patterns:

• United support among Democrats for the change in candidates.
• Frenetic and disjointed criticism of Harris’s candidacy, with diverging viewpoints and a visible lack of cohesive narrative.

Chaos

The complexity of public responses reveals disjointed and confused political strategies. Voters frequently discuss the Democratic Party's decisions, with terms like "identity politics,” “donor class,” and “disarray.” There is a sentiment among these voices that Biden's exit and Harris's candidacy are results of broader political maneuvering within the party. This view often comes with a mix of skepticism and resentment. This critical perspective underscores a belief in factionalism and party politics influencing key decisions, rather than a purely meritocratic consideration of Harris’s capabilities or votes cast by Americans.

Public sentiment towards Kamala Harris's candidacy is divided. While her Democratic voter base seems unified around her, critics remain vocal about their concerns. Supporters bring up her political history, lauding her as accomplished. However, they do not attach her previous unpopularity or the poor approval toward Joe Biden’s presidency to her current candidacy.

Online conversations have fewer clear themes and exhibit a heightened sense of chaos and urgency compared to more traditional discourses. This suggests a notable shift in the voter beliefs about the causes and implications of Joe Biden withdrawing.

This new, chaotic dynamic reveals a turbulent and uncertain political climate. This is only exacerbated by Biden's abrupt announcement of his withdrawal and the ensuing scramble for alignment and support within the Democratic Party.

Joe Biden

The top keywords emerging from these discussions center on "Biden," "Kamala," "Trump," "Hunter," "legacy," and "economy." Public sentiment around Joe Biden seems to polarize sharply into highly positive and highly negative views.

Positive sentiments highlight Biden's progressive accomplishments, his legacy as a pro-working-class president, and a belief in his deep empathy and character. People express profound gratitude for his efforts in establishing gun reform, boosting the economy, tackling climate change, and supporting unions.

Many echo Hunter Biden’s statement about his father’s unconditional love and commitment to public service. They underscore an emotional and personal connection to Biden's tenure. Supporters praise Biden for his significant achievements and transformative policies, stating their readiness to back Kamala Harris, who they believe will continue his progressive legacy.

Negative sentiments are often vehement, with accusations of incompetence, weakened borders, and economic mismanagement. Critics accuse Biden of being manipulated by his Party leaders and stress Kamala Harris’s perceived inadequacies. They voice frustrations over his legacy, including the immigration crisis and multiple foreign policy crises. Detractors emphasize a narrative of decline under Biden’s administration and project even more pessimism at the prospect of Harris taking the helm.

The reasons for sentiment trends are mostly rooted in partisan divisions. Supporters focus on Biden’s alleged policy successes and personal virtues, while critics latch onto recurring failures and controversies. The chaotic nature of these conversations indicates deep-seated political divides and a struggle for narrative control as voters grapple with the implications of Biden’s withdrawal and Harris’s ascent.

Kamala Harris

In the wake of President Biden's unexpected withdrawal announcement, online conversation among Americans is frenetic and impassioned. Discussion about Harris, like Biden, is less structured and more chaotic than usual.

Vote Blue No Matter Who

A predominant keyword emerging from the conversations is "KamalaHarris2024," often accompanied by hashtags like #VoteBlue, #HarrisForPresident, and #MadamePresident. Supporters express enthusiasm about her candidacy, citing her qualifications and historical significance as a leading advocate for marginalized groups, including the LGBTQ community.

Democrats use words like "champion," "equality," "proud," and "excited" with their endorsements. Sentiment among her supporters is optimistic and expresses a readiness to mobilize. This is supported by significant fundraising numbers following Biden's announcement. Despite receiving no votes in the Democratic primary during her previous run for president and her dismally low historical approval, Democratic voters seem to be rallying around Harris. This suggests a willingness to “vote blue no matter who.”

Detractors seem to be mostly on the right, focusing on her past controversies and perceived shortcomings. Top keywords in these opposing viewpoints include "Antifa," "BLM," "Willie Brown," and "criminal justice." These critics often allege her political career has been marked by opportunism and inconsistency.

People point to her tenure as California’s Attorney General where she faced criticism for her handling of wrongful convictions and her relationship with the former San Francisco Mayor Willie Brown. Words like “disappointed,” “backlash,” “controversy,” and “unprepared” are frequently used by those skeptical of her presidential ambitions. The sentiment here tends to emphasize distrust and discontent, driven by historical grievances and perceived failures in her political tenure.

Reports from Joe Biden’s X account announcing his sudden decision to drop out of the presidential race on Sunday sent shockwaves throughout social media. MIG Reports data shows initial reactions from Democratic voters are a complex and evolving mix of confusions and support for Kamala Harris. There is a mixture of anticipation, skepticism, and enthusiastic support.

Initial discussions reflect an uncertainty about her potential as a candidate but often tout her capabilities and political accomplishments. The news of Biden dropping out ignites a surge in sentiment and robust debates among Democratic voters.

Before the Withdrawal

Before Biden’s withdrawal, some Democrats viewed Kamala Harris as a capable yet underutilized political figure. They expressed frustration over trivial criticisms levied against her, such as mocking her laugh.

This reflects a genuine defense of her perceived strengths against what supporters see as baseless attacks. Public sentiment here is predominantly supportive, despite her historical unpopularity, with key topics revolving around her intelligence and capability, often drawing ironic comparisons to criticisms from political opponents.

After the Withdrawal

Upon Biden’s announced exit from the race, conversations rapidly shift toward the potential of a Harris-led ticket. There is an undercurrent of both excitement and practicality.

Strong endorsements surface, calling for a "damn PITBULL" by her side, indicative of a desire for a strong and assertive leadership style in her potential VP pick. Such terms signal a public leaning toward a more aggressive and dynamic campaign approach under her leadership.

Voter Enthusiasm Pushes Left

Following Biden's withdrawal announcement, Democratic voters express optimism about Harris's potential to lead and form effective political alliances. Discussions about possible running mates for Harris, such as Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez or Pete Buttigieg, suggest a forward-thinking and inclusive vision for the Democratic ticket. The public showcases a tendency toward innovative pairings, hoping to leverage Harris's strengths with widely recognized and charismatic figures to counter Republican opponents effectively.

Digging In

Critiques from political adversaries, however, fuel defensive and sometimes contentious reactions from Democratic voters who highlight Harris's prior endorsements and commend her political astuteness. The public often underscores her knack for tough debates. They claim J.D. Vance has revealed reluctance to face Harris in debates, attempting to underscore her competence and perceived intimidation factor among opponents.

The authenticity of the online voter discourse appears largely genuine, with spontaneous and unscripted expressions of both support and strategy for the upcoming election. The vernacular tone, use of humor, and references to political dynamics further corroborate the authenticity of the sentiment. Public conversations include strategic discussions about the Democratic National Convention and the anticipation of the final candidate selection, indicating an engaged and politically active base.

The leading keywords in discussions about Kamala Harris include:

• Smart
• Capable
• Tough
• Debating
• Pitbull
• Running mate

MIG Reports data shows reactions to Republican National Committee (RNC) speeches are shaping the landscape for the 2024 election. They are resonating significantly with the American people in several key areas like unity, the economy, and immigration.

However, there is also selective perception from both parties. Republicans and conservatives emphasize the policy points they agree with while Democrats and liberals nitpick issues like abortion. Regardless of the RNC platform and content, discussions are often driven by issues voters personally care about.

Many of the speeches given during the RNC highlight themes which are important for the potential trajectory of Donald Trump’s 2024 campaign. The central topics are immigration policies, economic strategies, national security, and cultural issues. Discussions on these topics will likely continue shaping the conversation until November.

Trump Speech Breakdown

A statistical breakdown of Trump’s speech highlights the topical themes he touched on by volume. The provides an understanding of what Americans heard and where Trump himself is placing platform emphasis.

Trump’s speech covered the following topics:

Election Campaign & Unity

• The campaign
• American unity
• Vision for the future

Personal Story & Assassination Attempt

• Trump’s personal narrative of the assassination attempt and its implications

Economic Policies

• Inflation
• Jobs
• Energy policies
• Economic relief

Immigration Policies

• Border security
• Immigration

International Policies

• International relations
• Wars
• Global stability

Social Policies

• Law and order
• Healthcare
• Education
• Social justice

An analytical breakdown of topic emphasis according to word count shows:

1. Election Campaign & Unity: 24.3%
2. Personal Story & Assassination Attempt: 23.0%
3. Economic Policies: 20.3%
4. Immigration Policies: 14.9%
5. International Policies: 9.5%
6. Social Policies: 8.1%

In contrast, a breakdown of Trump’s 2016 acceptance speech emphasized:

1. Introduction and Acceptance: 5%
2. Domestic Crisis and Safety: 20%
3. Immigration Policies: 17.5%
4. Economic Policies: 15%
5. International Policies: 15%
6. Social Policies and Justice: 12.5%
7. Anti-Corruption and Reform: 10%
8. Conclusion and Call to Action: 5%

The following breakdown depicts American discussion in response to the RNC throughout the week.

Immigration

American voter conversations indicate the Trump campaign’s talking points resonate heavily on promises of mass deportations. While many voters express hope for this, there was little explicit mention of deportation in RNC speeches. This suggests there is an organic campaign wish from the people.

The importance of a secure border is resonating powerfully with a certain segment of the electorate who are dissatisfied with the current state of immigration policy under the Biden administration. Discussions include policies like ending birthright citizenship and implementing a massive deportation operation. These align with concerns about national security and prevalent economic anxieties. These issues are not mentioned in reference to a specific RNC speaker but remain a high-volume discussion from Americans.

Discussions reveal a split in public opinion on immigration. Many Trump supporters praise his proposed measures as necessary for restoring law and order. Opponents criticize them as xenophobic and inhumane.

Economic Issues

Americans are saying Trump's platform suggests a continuation and amplification of his previous term’s policies. They highlight tax cuts, reducing regulation, and focusing on energy independence with an emphasis on fossil fuels over renewable sources.

While some praise these measures as advantageous for economic growth and beneficial for businesses, critics say they could increase income inequality and harm environmental progress. The call to restrict outsourcing and turn the United States into a manufacturing superpower is echoed in sentiments aiming to bring more jobs back domestically.

National Security

National security remains a significant aspect of RNC messaging and the Trump campaign’s strategy for 2024. The rhetoric around withdrawing from NATO, bolstering military capabilities, and ending foreign conflicts such as those in Ukraine aligns with Trump's America First ideology.

This strikes a strong chord with voters who are wary of prolonged overseas engagements. However, some voices warn that isolating the United States from global alliances and commitments could weaken international relations and security.

Cultural Issues

Cultural issues also featured in RNC speeches, generating commentary among American voters. The strong stances on hot-button topics like abortion, education, and LGBTQ rights are divisive across party lines.

Trump’s platform promises to ban critical race theory (CRT) from schools, return abortion laws to the states, and respect biological sex—especially in sports. These more conservative social stances resonate with a substantial conservative and Christian base.

However, opposition groups and many liberals consider these policies regressive and harmful to civil liberties and social inclusivity. This may be another example of selective perception among liberals. Many Democrats and leftists are focusing on issues like abortion and LGBTQ issues, despite a notable and purposeful absence from the 2024 RNC Platform.

Trending Sentiment

Sentiment on social media and in public discourse continues to be deeply polarized. Proponents of Trump’s policies express enthusiasm and hope for a return to what they view as stronger world leadership, a return to traditional values, and a secure nation.

Detractors express fear and concern about the potential for increasing division, loss of rights, and international isolation under another Trump administration. Discussions about economic promises, high stakes immigration reform, and broad cultural policy shifts highlight a nation deeply engaged and divided over its future path.

New Trump supporters articulate their beliefs with a fervent sense of disillusionment about their previous political affiliations—particularly those coming from the Democratic Party. Many cite personal experiences as transformative in their political realignment. One key source of resentment is betrayal voters felt from the Democratic National Committee (DNC) during Bernie Sanders' campaign. This, coupled with a broader disenchantment with Democratic policies, has frustrated some. This sense of betrayal is a recurrent theme in their narratives.

These Trump recruits frequently express feeling marginalized and alienated by the left's approach to social issues and cancel culture. They argue their dissenting opinions were met with hostility. Their disapproval extends to the mainstream media and social media platforms, which they believe perpetuate misinformation and exhibit bias against conservative viewpoints.

Discussion Trends

Economic concerns feature prominently in the discourse of disaffected voters. They describe rising costs of living, like increased gas and grocery prices. They attribute these economic hardships to current Democratic policies. Many specifically blame corporate greed for economic issues while questioning the governance of President Joe Biden. This contrasts with their perception of Donald Trump’s administration, which they believe fostered a stronger economy and greater national security.

There is an intense focus on issues like immigration and border security. Supporters highlight what they perceive as failures in vetting and securing borders, sharing personal anecdotes and stories from others about crimes committed by illegal immigrants. This narrative is infused with sentiments of fear and a desire for stronger, more assertive immigration policies.

The recent assassination attempt on Donald Trump is another central topic. Supporters express a strong sense of outrage and disbelief at the situation, coupled with gratitude that Trump survived. This event reinforces their belief that Trump is a target of unjust attacks and deepens their mistrust of federal agencies and the broader leftist agenda. They see Trump's survival as miraculous or even divine intervention, reinforcing their view of his importance on the political scene.

Sentiment Trends

Patriotism and nationalism are critical elements for new MAGA supporters. These voters often extol Trump's commitment to American values and traditions. They view his leadership as a bulwark against what they see as the moral and social decay propagated by leftist programs. This is often juxtaposed with disappointment in American institutions, which they believe have been compromised by liberal ideologies.

There is also a notable sentiment of relatability and personal identification with Trump. Supporters admire his brash, unfiltered style and perceive it as honest and refreshing. They appreciate his willingness to confront and dismantle the existing political establishment, which they believe is out of touch with the everyday American.

The rhetoric of distrust towards the government and mainstream media is omnipresent. New supporters frequently rebuke mainstream media and establishment news, often with strong negativity about deep-state collusions and manipulations within federal agencies. The involvement of high-ranking officials in events like the assassination attempt is seen through a lens of skepticism and distrust.