Recent news of airplane manufacturer Boeing’s guilty plea for conspiracy to defraud the U.S. government is enraging Americans. The plea, in connection with two deadly 737 Max crashes, resulted in fines and penalties which, most Americans, feel is a meager punishment.

Despite the rare moment when a corporate giant admits to criminal wrongdoing, the two catastrophic crashes in Indonesia and Ethiopia, which killed 346 people, are only a small part of why Boeing’s brand value continues to plummet.

American sentiment toward Boeing consists of anger and disappointment. Many perceive Boeing's agreement to pay a $243.6 million fine is outrageously lenient given the magnitude of the tragedy and the $24.8 billion victims’ families hoped for.

There is a significant outcry that the punishment does not fit the crime, particularly since no one is facing jail time. The company already faced $2.5 billion in penalties and payouts in 2021, but critics argue financial penalties alone are inadequate to hold the company accountable for the loss of human lives.

• With news of Boeing’s guilty plea, online mentions skyrocketed aspublic sentiment crashed down to 36%.
• Ongoing scandals and negative press coverage continue to erode public views of Boeing, which faces negativity more severe than American hatred of Mexican cartels.

Destroying Public Trust

American view of Boeing and consequently, air travel, has been severely compromised. Ongoing scandals, safety incidents, and rumors about the dead whistleblowers cast a long shadow over Boeing's reputation.

The aviation industry's overall safety and integrity now face heightened scrutiny. The idea of boarding a Boeing 737 Max or any aircraft manufactured by Boeing terrifies many travelers. Incidents like the recent aborted takeoff of an American Airlines Boeing 737 due to a blown tire amplify these concerns.

This incident occurred as the aircraft accelerated for takeoff, resulting in a catastrophic tire failure, which later caused a fire. The immediate danger of the situation was compounded by a delayed response from emergency trucks. This heightened concerns over the readiness and efficiency of ground support systems in handling such emergencies.

JUST IN: American Airlines flight 590 out of Tampa, Florida narrowly avoids disaster after multiple tires blow out during takeoff.

As the plane was picking up speed and seconds away from liftoff, the tires blew out.

The pilot slammed on the brakes as the plane barreled towards… pic.twitter.com/P5kZ3N6pUO

— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) July 10, 2024

The FAA's order to inspect 2,600 Boeing 737 planes over potential oxygen mask failures further erodes confidence in air travel, suggesting systemic quality control issues within the company. Many are also discussing recent news that Boeing’s Starliner capsule will be stuck in space, possibly until mid-August, due to technical issues.

Another recent incident where two planes nearly collided mid-air resurfaced fears about the impact of DEI initiatives in the aviation industry.

Remember when the FAA threw out over 700 qualified Air Traffic Controller applicants (who passed the test) just because they were white? https://t.co/KaECGX3uke

— Jesse Kelly (@JesseKellyDC) July 10, 2024

Vitriol Over Disproportionate Punishments

The juxtaposition of Boeing's insignificant penalties with other high-profile cases also fuels ideas of a two-tiered justice system. Americans increasingly believe corporate entities receive lenient treatment compared to individuals—especially for those who hold the "wrong" ideology.

Most people view Boeing's fine as a "sweetheart deal" that fails to hold anyone accountable to the victims' families. Critics argue this penalty amounts to a slap on the wrist for Boeing, a multi-billion-dollar corporation, and fails to deliver real justice or corrective pressure.

The sense of injustice is exacerbated by the fact that no individual executives face criminal charges or jail time. In contrast, some people point out Trump's fine of nearly $500 million including interest for his valuation of Mar-a-Lago.

They fined Donald Trump 2x more for accurately appraising the market value of his home than Boeing got fined for killing people. https://t.co/jhfbrI7DZy

— Sean Davis (@seanmdav) July 8, 2024

Many, especially on the right, view these disproportionate penalties as clear evidence of favoritism and politically motivated justice. These reactions frame the justice system as being unfairly weaponized against anyone who doesn’t align with the “Uniparty.”

Americans frequently talk online about censorship and the dangers of Big Tech and corporation gatekeeping. When they discuss these things a common subject, especially among right leaning voters, involves political discrimination.

One of the themes in online discussion includes credit card companies that track customer purchases and could potentially report certain purchases or even block usage. American reactions to this are deeply influenced by broader socio-political contexts, personal privacy concerns, and economic security apprehensions.

Americans Worry About Privacy

A huge concern for Americans across the political spectrum is privacy and surveillance. People express unease at the idea of Big Tech companies or other corporations having detailed records of their purchasing habits. This creates a sense of being constantly watched, which feels invasive to most citizens.

Many people also fear how their data might be used. There are worries around data marketing strategies or information being shared with third parties including government entities. Some see it as a breach of personal freedom, challenging the right to privacy in a digital age increasingly dominated by data capitalism.

Financial Surveillance and Censorship

Many Americans question whether they can trust banks or credit card companies. Discussions about the Canadian government shutting down trucker bank accounts during the protests of 2022 are frequently mentioned, especially among Republicans and conservatives. U.S. voters do not want to see similar political and financial discrimination emerge in America.

The potential for credit card companies to block usage based on political statements or purchase history adds a layer of anxiety. This is especially true considering how dependent modern society is on credit for daily expenses and emergency situations.

For those with precarious financial standings or who are living paycheck to paycheck, financial censorship could spell disaster. The power wielded by credit card companies—capable of determining a person’s financial solvency—fuels apprehension about corporate overreach and its implications on individual economic stability.

Regulation for Big Tech and Corporations

There are conversations about how to effectively implement regulation and accountability for credit card companies and other businesses. Voters call for greater transparency and oversight to prevent abuse of power.

There is also a vocal segment advocating for more stringent data regulations to ensure tracking and data collection are done ethically. Some want protective measures in place to prevent arbitrary withdrawal of services which customers cannot protest.

Most Americans are vocal about the need for stronger consumer protections. This includes calls for clearer guidelines on data usage and stricter penalties for companies that violate consumer trust. Different voter groups on both sides of the aisle discuss stricter regulations, although opinions about the method and degree of regulation differ.

Apprehension About Social Credit

Across the political spectrum, there is also considerable apprehension about a system that would evaluate personal behavior and use those evaluations to grant or restrict access to societal benefits or market participation.

This idea, often called a social credit score system, gets criticism as a dystopian measure that would bring unprecedented levels of government surveillance and control. Critics argue social credit would infringe on basic civil liberties like freedom of expression and privacy. They fear it would lead to an authoritarian state where compliance is coerced through the threat of social and economic penalties.

One of the main concerns Americans express is the potential for misuse and discrimination. There is a widespread belief that a social credit system would disproportionately affect marginalized groups, exacerbating existing prejudices.

Liberals tend to fear minorities and the underprivileged would face economic or racial discrimination. Those on the right tend to fear political discrimination and censorship of conservative beliefs.

The fear of constant monitoring and the subjective nature of what constitutes "good" or "bad" behavior exists for many groups and demographics. Depending on which groups a person identifies with, concerns emerge about outsiders setting social credit standards, leading to arbitrary and biased decision-making.

The idea that market participation could be contingent on adherence to specific behavioral norms is deeply unsettling for many Americans.

The Supreme Court's decision on June 28 to overturn the Chevron deference doctrine has led to heated debates and fluctuating sentiment. MIG Reports shows overall sentiment towards the Supreme Court seems has slightly decreased as many Americans express concerns about the implications on future judicial coherence and executive actions.

Critics argue this decision could destabilize established regulatory norms, while supporters believe it aligns with a more originalist interpretation of congressional intent.

Trending Discussions

Discourse around the Chevron deference decision has primarily focused on the implications for administrative law and environmental regulations. Many worry the decision could undermine the ability of federal agencies to enforce regulations effectively. They especially worry about environmental protection, labor standards, and public health.

The Chevron deference doctrine granted agencies leeway to interpret ambiguous statutes. This enabled them to issue and enforce more comprehensive rules based on their expertise. Removing this deference calls into question the future robustness of agency regulations.

Another prominent discussion trend revolves around the political ramifications. Trump's supporters see the decision as a win, aligning with their broader agenda of reducing what they consider to be the overreach of federal agencies. This ruling, in their view, empowers smaller government and state rights, integral to their ideological framework.

Impact on Voter Sentiments

Among Trump supporters, the reaction has been largely positive. They view the decision as a step towards reducing what they perceive as government overreach and an unelected bureaucracy. This group expresses increased support for the Supreme Court, seeing it as a corrective force against Executive Branch agencies' expansive interpretations of laws.

The decision aligns with their broader desire for a more limited government and a stricter adherence to constitutional principles. Consequently, this demographic is likely to feel more empowered and validated, potentially increasing voter turnout in support of candidates who promise to uphold similar judicial philosophies.

For undecided voters, the reaction has been mixed. Some are cautious of the decision’s implications on regulatory oversight and public safety, seeing the potential for diminished protections in daily life. This demographic is watching the aftermath closely, particularly in sectors like environmental protection and consumer rights. They hope to see how the ruling will translate into real-world impacts before solidifying their stance.

Potential support movement from Biden to Trump due to this decision is likely minimal. Biden supporters underscore the importance of maintaining robust regulatory mechanisms to ensure public welfare and environmental health.

However, frustrations with administrative sluggishness and bureaucratic inefficiencies could push some voters to reconsider. Especially if they perceive the Supreme Court’s decision as a much-needed disruption to an inefficient system.

Crypto news recently surfaced that on-chain transactions show a wallet linked to the U.S. government transferred 3,940 bitcoins to the popular crypto exchange Coinbase. This is generating a lot of discussion online and speculation about whether the United States plans to sell large amounts of Bitcoin.

Some crypto investors speculate the transfer may indicate the government plans to liquidate assets, possibly to stabilize the market or address financial needs. This possibility generates significant controversy since the U.S. government still holds a massive reserve of approximately 213,546 Bitcoin, currently valued at around $12.9 billion. Some fear that, if the U.S. government floods the market with its Bitcoin holdings, it will drive the price down dramatically.

Why the U.S. Government Holds Bitcoin

The U.S. government holds Bitcoin primarily through seizures from criminal investigations involving activities like drug trafficking, money laundering, and cybercrime. Government agencies confiscate assets during enforcement actions or obtain crypto through asset surrender. At times, the U.S. Marshals Service has auctioned seized bitcoin, converting it to cash for various government functions.

Voter perception of the government's bitcoin holdings is mixed. Some Americans appreciate it as a sign of effective law enforcement against cybercriminals, while others may view it as draconian and unjustified for the government to benefit from digital assets it is hostile to.

Many people call for greater transparency in how these assets are managed and how the proceeds are utilized. Some also argue confiscated crypto should be burned or left dormant like confiscated drugs.

The Crypto Regulation Fight

The transfer has also sparked a broader debate on the regulatory and financial implications of government agencies using crypto exchanges. Investors are questioning whether this could lead to market volatility and how it reflects the government's stance on cryptocurrencies. Especially when many crypto holders feel perpetually frustrated at the lack of regulatory clarity in the United States.

The involvement of Coinbase, a major exchange currently in legal battles with the SEC, adds another layer of intrigue. Many crypto voters view the U.S. government as highly hypocritical for going after Coinbase on legal grounds, while at the same time utilizing its services.

A Reuters report stated, “The SEC sued Coinbase in June, saying the firm facilitated trading of at least 13 crypto tokens that should have been registered as securities and was operating illegally as a national securities exchange, broker and clearing agency without registering with the regulator.”

There is also ongoing legal action with Coinbase suing the SEC and FDIC for not honoring FOIA requests. The contentious and complicated relationship between the U.S. government and crypto exchanges like Coinbase seems to make Crypto users increasingly irate about government hypocrisy.

Reactions to Government Use of Bitcoin

At the same time, many in the crypto community see the government's accumulated Bitcoin as a testament to its resilience and increasing legitimacy. The fact that the government holds significant amounts of crypto, even if obtained through confiscations, indirectly validates the value and importance of digital currencies.

For some, government use of crypto tokens is a step towards broader acceptance and integration of cryptocurrencies within traditional financial and regulatory frameworks. It gives some hope that Bitcoin might someday be recognized not just as an asset, but as a potential medium for various financial transactions, including tax payments.

However, the majority of American crypto holders view Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies as tools to undermine what they perceive as a corrupt or inefficient fiat-based financial system. They tend to view the government's possession of Bitcoin as ironic and hypocritical. It raises concerns about potential misuse or mismanagement of crypto markets and encourages national governments to continue targeting crypto holders as perceived threats.

Americans are reacting to California providing plastic straws in free drug kits for addicts, despite banning them in general use over environmental impact claims. This contradiction is generating public reactions of ridicule and disgust.

Many people are pointing out the inconsistency in policy implementation. Critics say banning plastic straws for environmental reasons while supplying them freely to drug addicts reveals a lack of conviction in California's environmental priorities. This contradictory stance also leads some to believe California’s stated reasons for its policies are disingenuous and politically motivated.

A viral video showing what is provided in California’s free drug kits elicited reactions of disbelief and anger. Many people criticize programs that claim to make drug use “safer” or that safe use fights addiction. They say these programs simply enable addicts at the taxpayer’s expense. All the while, the state penalizes average citizens for the alleged environmental impact of drinking out of plastic straws.

To fight climate change California Democrats took away plastic straws…

But to fight drug addiction they give free drug kits with plastic straws.

Make it make fvcking sense.
pic.twitter.com/u38JdT4DRy

— I Meme Therefore I Am 🇺🇸 (@ImMeme0) May 17, 2024

Arguments About Hypocritical Policies

Some voices support the state including plastic straws in “safe drug kits.” They claim it is a pragmatic approach to harm reduction. Advocates argue providing these kits, which aim to minimize health risks for drug users, is a necessary public health measure. They claim the immediate health benefits outweigh any environmental concerns, stressing the primary goal is to save lives and reduce the spread of diseases.

These discussions also bleed into broader debates about the effectiveness of California's environmental policies and governance. Some are skeptical about the long-term impact of banning plastic straws, viewing it as a superficial and performative measure.

There are also some who support climate initiatives who say there are more important systemic environmental issues to address. They argue for a more comprehensive approach to tackling plastic pollution and climate change rather than focusing on smaller, symbolic actions.

Criticisms About Government Spending

When voters learn of plastic straws being provided free in drug kits, many react with anger at tax dollar spending and misplaced government priorities. Critics say taxpayer dollars could be better used elsewhere, criticizing such a controversial use of resources. Many suggest the funds and efforts invested in harm reduction are ineffective and patronizing to citizens in need of help.

Progressive voters who support the harm reduction approach highlight their belief that marginalized communities are disproportionately affected by drug use. They claim these groups need compassionate and immediate care. They also advocate for integrating harm reduction efforts with environmental policies, which can lead to more holistic and equitable outcomes.

Resistance to “Harm Reduction” and Regulations

Right leaning and conservative voters are more likely to criticize government spending on supposed “harm reduction” initiatives. Often the same voters who criticize environmental plastic straw bans, this group views public funding for drug kits as a heinous perpetuation of the drug addiction epidemic—especially in blue cities and states.

Many argue the government should focus on addressing core issues underlying drug addiction like border security or comprehensive rehabilitation programs. They say facilitating safer ways to consume drugs is only detrimental. This viewpoint asserts harm reduction enables and legitimizes drug use rather than helping Americans to overcome it.

These Americans also tend to view the larger straw ban as an overreach, questioning the government's role in regulating everyday items and behaviors. They see a sharp hypocrisy in government facilitation for drug addicts but restrictions on all other citizens when it comes to straw use.