WIRED Politics Lab

Exploring campus protests over the war in Gaza, disinformation and foreign influence, crucial role of student journalists, Russia's disinformation tactics, conspiracy theories about Boy Scouts name change, TikTok trends shaping beliefs, and a teaser for the next episode on depleting vital resources.

Far-right militias are using Facebook to organize for the US election despite bans. The podcast explores Facebook's role, the rise of extremist groups, and their shift to social media. It delves into conspiracy theories around Walt Disney and JFK Jr., ending with a call to action for listeners.

Leah Feiger, Tori Elliott, and Makena Kelly discuss the potential ban on TikTok in the US. They cover topics like the legal battle over First Amendment rights, the uncertainty surrounding TikTok's future and potential buyers, the role of influencers in political campaigns, and the impact of TikTok ban on influencers. They also touch on controversial theories like alien bodies in Mexico.

Silicon Valley entrepreneur Nicole Shanahan joins the podcast to discuss RFK Jr.'s independent presidential campaign, his use of extreme conspiracies and online outreach tactics, his recent VP pick, media outreach, staff behind the campaign, and how his push for ballot access might impact the 2024 election.

Election deniers are mobilizing their supporters and rolling out new tech to disrupt the November election. These groups are already organizing on hyperlocal levels, and learning to monitor polling places, target election officials, and challenge voter rolls. And though their work was once fringe, it's become mainstreamed in the Republican Party. Today on WIRED Politics Lab, we focus on what these groups are doing, and what this means for voters and the election workers already facing threats and harassment.Be sure to subscribe to the WIRED Politics Lab newsletter here Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Politics has never been stranger – or more online. Each week on WIRED Politics Lab, our reporters guide you through the exciting, challenging and sometimes entertaining vortex of internet extremism, conspiracies, and disinformation. Expect in-depth analysis and conversations based on facts and research. Plus, we’ll give you information you can actually use to lift the fog of disinformation we find ourselves in today. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Politics has never been stranger – or more online. Each week on WIRED Politics Lab, our reporters guide you through the exciting, challenging and sometimes entertaining vortex of internet extremism, conspiracies, and disinformation. Expect in-depth analysis and conversations based on facts and research. Plus, we’ll give you information you can actually use to lift the fog of disinformation we find ourselves in today.You can subscribe to the Wired Politics newsletter here. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices