Unveiling the Truth: Why Trump Supporters Trust OAN Despite Frequent Fact-Checking
Introduction
Why do Trump supporters continue to trust One America News Network (OAN), a channel frequently subjected to fact-checking, despite these frequent corrections? This article explores the dynamics behind this phenomenon, delving into the nature of fact-checking and the role of trusted sources in forming opinions.
Understanding Fact-Checking
Fact-checking is vital in today’s media landscape; relying solely on what appears on our screens without verification can lead to misinformation. However, who are the fact-checkers themselves, and are they always accurate?
The Reliability of Fact-Checkers
When it comes to fact-checking, Facebook serves as a prominent example. If Facebook disagrees with your facts, they label them as false. But there is a crucial question: Who fact-checks the fact-checkers? This chain of verification highlights the ongoing need for individuals to be their own fact-checkers and not solely rely on external sources.
Personal Experiences: The Case of My In-Laws
During a dinner conversation with my in-laws, it became apparent how crucial it is to question the sources of information. My father-in-law, a staunch fan of OAN, became visibly upset when I pointed out that his preferred channel was one of the worst in terms of providing factual news. I underscored that true news is based on facts, not opinions, and the news channels often focus on opinionated talk shows and infomercials rather than actual news.
The Importance of Knowledge: News vs. Opinion
News is straightforward; it informs. But opinionated news channels often present a skewed version of the truth intended to sway viewers' opinions. If a tree falls in someone's yard, that is news. However, if someone's opinion is that this policy will hurt the American people, it is not news; it is opinion. Similarly, labeling someone as a liberal socialist who wants to take guns and turn kids gay is not news but propaganda.
Fact-Checking OAN and Other Networks
It is important to note that while OAN may be one of the worst, other networks like CNN, MSNBC, and Fox are not exempt from bias. Bias in a news channel can manifest in various ways: what is covered and how it is described. Terms like "riot," "peaceful protest," and "insurrection" can significantly alter the perception of an event. Additionally, a high number of corrections and walkbacks, especially in the context of Donald Trump, suggests a pattern of spreading misinformation.
Examples of Misinformation: The Michael Flynn Case
Consider the infamous Michael Flynn story. Originally, reports suggested he was going to cooperate with the FBI regarding contacts between Donald Trump and the Russians. However, it turned out this cooperation occurred during the incoming administration, not during the pre-election campaign. This example is just one of many where anonymous sources provided misleading information, leading to a generalized distrust in news sources.
The Myth of Trump’s Unconditional Support
There is a common belief that Trump supporters would never doubt his statements, no matter how damaging. However, an oft-repeated example involves the scenario of Trump shooting someone in the middle of Fifth Avenue. Supporters would reportedly say he didn’t lose his supporters because they wouldn't believe it; they would wait for a retraction or a justification. While this is a fictional scenario, it illustrates a general pattern of ignoring negative information when it comes to Trump.
Conclusion
Forming an informed opinion requires vigilance and a critical mindset. While certain channels like OAN may be more prone to spreading misinformation, it is essential to be your own fact-checker and not simply accept information at face value. Media literacy is a crucial skill in today’s digital age, and it empowers individuals to discern true news from biased or false reports.