The foundation of mass power is in shaping and controlling the narrative. Define what is important, add characters, villains and heroes to your story, mix in some fear and anger. This will then will be what people will think about, what they talk about, what they argue about and what they fight about.
What they think about the chosen topics, their opinions about them, is important, but it's much less important than simply having people focused on what you want them focused on. One reason for this is that it prevents discussion and debate on issues you'd prefer people not be aware of or focus on. People can only focus on a few things at a time.
We are still talking about COVID 24/7. Obscure things like transgender issues and deliciously divisive topics like racism swallow up huge chunks of media coverage, legislative agendas and individual's minds.
Define the issues, step back and watch all the drama and fighting. Victory is yours.
The only way out of this trap is to define for yourself what's important to you and to focus on that.