The Michael Steele Podcast
The Calculated Lies of Donald Trump (Quick Take)
Oct 27, 2024
In a riveting discussion, Bill Adair, a Duke professor and founder of PolitiFact, examines the alarming rise of political lying and why it’s more prevalent among Republicans. He shares insights on the ethical dilemmas he faced as RNC Chairman regarding the birther movement. Adair also differentiates between calculated and impulsive lies, shedding light on the role of social media in spreading misinformation. The conversation underscores the media's struggle to hold politicians accountable, a critical issue for today's democracy.
15:46
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Quick takeaways
- Political figures often embrace calculated lies to resonate with specific voter biases, perpetuating a cycle of misinformation and distrust.
- The media needs to actively confront political dishonesty to restore accountability, especially in the age of social media-driven misinformation.
Deep dives
The Allure of Political Lies
The tendency for political figures to embrace calculated lies is highlighted as a significant issue in modern politics. An example is provided of a conversation where a politician chose to perpetuate falsehoods about Barack Obama's citizenship despite being advised against it due to its racist nature. This choice underscores the idea that such lies resonate with certain voter segments because they confirm pre-existing biases and beliefs. The discussion illustrates how these deceptive narratives become appealing to those who want to believe in them, leading to a cycle of misinformation.
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