Few rights are more important than the right to vote. But year after year, misinformation and disinformation have played a larger role in disrupting elections and causing confusion. As the 2022 midterm elections approach, voters need to be aware of the havoc that falsehoods, hoaxes, and conspiracy theories can wreak and their potential to derail our democratic processes.
In the links below, we explore what’s being done and what still needs to be addressed to ensure the integrity of our elections— and that voters are well-informed before they submit their ballots.
Misinformation May Only Worsen for Black Voters in Lead-Up to Election, Experts Warn
NLP: “This report—as well as this one about Latino voters— shares a variety of examples of how communities of color are being targeted with conspiracy theories, misleading information, and distortions to cause confusion about issues and candidates.”
Election 2022: Be Informed, Not Misled
NLP: “Misinformation surrounding our electoral processes has created an existential threat to our democracy. But news literacy plays a crucial role in preparing us to be well-informed voters by helping us develop the skills needed to recognize false information about elections, candidates, and issues. And it empowers us to find authoritative and trustworthy sources. Resources on this page include upcoming webinars, PSA videos, an infographic, and more links to trustworthy sources of information on this topic.”
News Literacy Project
The News Literacy Project, a nonpartisan education nonprofit, is building a national movement to advance the practice of news literacy throughout American society, creating better informed, more engaged and more empowered individuals—and ultimately a stronger democracy. Learn more about its work at newslit.org.