Member-only story
The Politics of Fear: How Right-Wing Media Leverages Immigration to Sway Votes
These narratives go beyond attracting viewers; they aim to shape public perception and advocate for stricter deportation measures, often underpinned by racial undertones.
The Politics of Fear: How Right-Wing Media Leverages Immigration to Sway Votes
Fear is a powerful tool in politics, capable of swaying public opinion, driving voter turnout, and legitimizing controversial policies. Immigration has long been a focal point for such tactics, with certain right-wing media outlets portraying it as a dire crisis. These narratives go beyond attracting viewers; they aim to shape public perception and advocate for stricter deportation measures, often underpinned by racial undertones.
Creating the Illusion of Crisis
Immigration is a multifaceted issue involving economic, social, and humanitarian considerations. Yet, some right-wing media outlets reduce this complexity to sensational headlines and dramatic soundbites. Phrases like “invasion,” “flood,” and “border chaos” are used to instill fear and urgency. This framing depicts migrants as criminals, freeloaders…