In the current politically charged climate, it’s easy to dismiss those who propagate false information or subscribe to conspiracy theories. However, as the United States gears up for its third consecutive election where misinformation is expected to play a significant role, understanding the motivations of those who distrust the electoral process becomes crucial.
CNN’s Donie O’Sullivan and his team have produced an hour-long documentary, “MisinfoNation: The Trump Faithful,” which will be broadcast on “The Whole Story with Anderson Cooper” this Sunday at 8 p.m. ET. The documentary features candid conversations with individuals who have lost faith in the US electoral system, shedding light on the growing influence of fringe movements in the country.
From Fringe to Mainstream
O’Sullivan’s project aims to illustrate how mainstream American politics is increasingly influenced by what was once considered fringe elements – fringe platforms and personalities. These personalities may propagate falsehoods, but they are no longer confined to the fringes. Their influence is now mainstream and poses a significant threat to our democracy.
Understanding the Believers
O’Sullivan’s approach to interviewing these individuals is respectful and open-minded. He believes his role is not to change people’s minds but to understand their beliefs and the reasons behind them. He emphasizes the importance of treating everyone with respect, regardless of their beliefs.
Recent polls suggest that about a third of Americans believe that Joe Biden did not legitimately win the last election, and about a quarter believe that the FBI staged the January 6th events. These beliefs are held by ordinary people – people with jobs, families, and community involvement. Understanding why they subscribe to such theories is crucial.
Christian Nationalism and the Constitution
The documentary also explores the belief among Christian nationalists that the US is a Christian nation and that Christianity is woven into the Constitution and founding documents. However, many are surprised to learn that the word “God” does not appear in the Constitution. This exploration of Christian nationalism and its impact on democracy is a key aspect of the documentary.
The Rise of Fringe Social Media Platforms
After the January 6th events, many supporters of Trump were banned from major social media platforms, driving them to more extreme, fringe platforms. This shift has potentially radicalizing effects and presents a dilemma for mainstream platforms that enforce rules against sharing conspiracy theories.
The Hope for a Trump Pardon
Rachel Powell, a mother now serving time in federal prison for her actions on January 6th, is featured in the documentary. Powell holds onto the hope that a Trump reelection could lead to her pardon. Her story underscores the personal stakes of the upcoming election for many.
The documentary provides a deep dive into the complex web of misinformation and conspiracy theories surrounding US elections, offering viewers a chance to understand the beliefs and motivations of those who subscribe to these theories.