Full breakdown:
This CTV News piece deploys victimization propaganda laced with appeal to emotion (pathos), a classic tactic to stoke national resentment against U.S. border enforcement.
Here’s the breakdown, sharp and evidence-based:
• One-sided sob story: The article fixates on 20-year-old Julia’s “bewilderment,” her mother’s “abuse of power” quip, and the “jarring” ordeal of a wholesome family visit derailed.   No CBP statement, no official reasoning beyond a checklist note—just the Canadian family’s tear-jerking quotes. This cherry-picks sympathy while omitting why she raised red flags: unemployed, on a school break till spring, no job/school proof, planning six weeks in Florida with grandparents.   Under U.S. law (INA § 212(a)(7)(A)), visitors must prove non-immigrant intent; weak ties to Canada (no job, no classes) scream potential overstay risk. CBP isn’t obligated to admit anyone—entry is a privilege, not a right. 
• Emotional framing over facts: Headlines scream “abuse of power” and “denied entry to visit grandparents,” evoking a bullied innocent.  It buries the lawyer’s admission of “more questioning” lately, hinting at broader scrutiny post-2024 election without naming Trump-era policies.  Pure fearmongering for Canadians: pack invitations, tickets, or else!
• Nationalist undertone: As a Canadian outlet, it subtly fans anti-U.S. grievance—“some politics play out at the border”—while ignoring CBSA does the exact same to Americans.   Reddit threads nail it: this ain’t absurd; it’s routine for ticking immigrant-intent boxes. 
Witty aside: If this is “abuse,” then every denied tourist visa worldwide is a human rights crisis. CTV’s real goal? Clicks via outrage, not journalism. Pro tip for Julia: Next time, bring enrollment proof and a job offer letter—borders aren’t suggestions.