Two words made a huge impact on where we are as a divided nation: "Fake News." [View all]
Millions no longer trust viable news sources and instead embrace what their peers recommend or looks attractive. This strategy is not unique, is modeled after other previous autocrats, and has proven to be quite effective. The message is so tried and true that other autocratic leaders across the globe have been copying the resurrection by the one that made it popular again in the greatest democracy in the world. Accusations, actual charges, counts of impeachment, sexual assault suits, Covid, were all hoaxes and "fake news." Masks and vaccinations make you "look weak" and are dismissed openly, while embraced secretly. Military service is for "losers and suckers". It's OK not to disclose or pay taxes as an "elected" official and it's fine and dandy to mock, abuse, ridicule and threaten anyone who doesn't agree with the autocratic cult. "Lock her up," "Lock them up" all fire the bellies of the red meat "base". It's even OK to say elections are "rigged" and the outcome must be fraudulent. Based on what? Nothing. It's the huckster, con-artist carnival barker that has the biggest megaphone and today the message is amplified in seconds around the world.
Two words resonate with millions and you don't have to offer evidence or prove a damn thing. So easy. So effective. No soul or humanity required. Putin must be thrilled and Roy Cohn would be very proud.
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