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Brett Kavanaugh and the Information Terrorists Trying to Reshape America
Article

Brett Kavanaugh and the Information Terrorists Trying to Reshape America

Wired, 2018

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Editorial Rating

8

Qualities

  • Controversial
  • Innovative
  • Background

Recommendation

Discussion about fake news and the spread of disinformation is often very technology-centric, with the human element receiving short shrift. As Molly McKew argues in Wired, however, the powerful impact of right-wing conspiracy theories on American politics in recent years is not due to bots and trolls alone. Her compelling essay explains how seemingly outlandish conspiracy theories manage to gain traction among millions of Americans, and how a group of well-organized fringe activists has succeeded in captivating the political discourse. 

Summary

When US Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh’s accuser, Christine Blasey Ford, came forward with her claim of attempted rape, the disinformation apparatus that came to Kavanaugh’s defense was already in place. Far-right bloggers painted Ford as a left-wing activist and spun conspiracy theories that the CIA or George Soros had orchestrated the allegation. Other Kavanaugh defenders alleged that Ford was out for revenge or personal profit. The right-wing campaign successfully paved the way for Kavanaugh’s testimony, in which he accused the left of trying to destroy his reputation. Kavanaugh and his defenders all expounded on a ...

About the Author

Molly McKew is a foreign policy and strategy consultant, and an expert on information warfare.