Discussing Trump's social security cuts, mishaps, and Russian disinformation. Exploring his financial struggles, dangerous rhetoric, and contrasting it with Biden's policies. Analyzing Trump's controversial statements, media diversion, Elon Musk's interviews, and uncovering a Russian disinformation operation.
Russian disinformation campaigns aim to sow doubt in Western support for Ukraine through easily debunked fake news stories.
Addressing disinformation on platforms like YouTube requires swift action and better monitoring tools to combat false narratives.
Controversial rulings by Judge Eileen Canon, suspected of favoring Trump, have drawn criticism for lack of legal clarity.
Deep dives
Russian Disinformation Campaigns
Russia's disinformation campaigns, evolving from troll farms to now fake websites and news stories, aim to spread misinformation by planting seeds of doubt and disinterest in Western support for Ukraine. The focus is on blanketing disinformation rather than sophistication, with easily debunked stories being spread to influence political discourse and policies.
YouTube's Response to Disinformation
YouTube, owned by Google, faced criticism for hosting fake leaked audio content linking US officials to nefarious plots. While the content had low viewership, the challenge lies in addressing such disinformation swiftly. Researcher Darren Linville highlighted the need for better monitoring tools, as these campaigns exploit loopholes and push false narratives.
Judge Eileen Canon's Controversial Rulings
Judge Eileen Canon, suspected of favoring Trump, made perplexing rulings like allowing Trump's motion to dismiss a classified documents case. Despite acknowledging weak arguments, she denied the motion and advised Trump's team to refile later, drawing criticism for her decisions and lack of legal clarity.
Jared Kushner's Luxurious Deal in Serbia
Jared Kushner secured a 99-year lease at no cost to build a luxury hotel and complex in Serbia, a deal akin to one Trump aspired for in 2013. Teaming up with former Trump envoy Rick Grenell, Kushner's deal raises questions about favoritism and personal business dealings within the Trump circle.
Handling of Chinese Influence Operations
Apart from Russia, concerns about Chinese influence operations in US elections emerged, with a focus on influencing divisions and pushing the pro-China narrative. The evolving disinformation landscape requires vigilance to detect and counter foreign interference amidst growing political tensions.
This week on The New Abnormal, co-hosts Andy Levy and Danielle Moodiediscuss a recent interview in which Donald Trump discusses cutting social security. Then, Justin Baragona, senior media reporter for The Daily Beast, spills the tea on a weekend full of Trump mishaps. Plus! Shannon Vavra, national security reporter for The Daily Beast, explains both the laughable and alarming world of Russian disinformation.