This shift has led to accusations of performative activism, where the appearance of caring about social justice outweighs the actual implementation of effective policies.
This focus on optics, critics argue, is exemplified by the Biden administration’s handling of the border crisis.
The administration’s “open door” policies have been blamed for creating a surge in illegal immigration.
Instead of taking responsibility, Biden has shifted blame to Congress, demanding new laws to address the problem. This strategy of creating a crisis and then positioning oneself as the solution is seen as manipulative and cynical, designed to appeal to voters’ emotions rather than offering genuine solutions.
Critics also point out how such tactics divert attention from real-life issues facing ordinary families—such as the skyrocketing hospital costs in border communities, the strain on emergency prenatal care facilities, and the lack of affordable private health insurance options in underserved states.
These financial and health-related burdens weigh heavily on citizens—especially those caught in politically turbulent areas.
