The United States is preparing for the presidential elections 2024, but even then despite preparations, the country is still not ready to face the disinformation which will lie ahead.
According to the experts, fake news, conspiracy theories, and false propaganda will continue to propagate the event. These will lead to societal unrest and public commotion.
A Convergence of Challenges
The stakes are high for the upcoming election and even the US is still not yet ready for the disinformation that will erupt during the season.Jorge Franganillo from Unsplash
The convergence of events on both traditional and social media platforms, coupled with a global surge in elections, sets the stage for disinformation to thrive.
From the susceptibility of voters to disinformation from political figures like former President Donald Trump to the ubiquity of artificial intelligence technology, the election is primed for the manipulation of information, according to NBC.
While research suggests that disinformation has limited direct effects on voting choices, its spread by political elites, especially national candidates, can influence public opinion on critical issues.
False narratives can lead to severe consequences, such as inciting violence against democratic institutions or dissuading vaccination efforts.
Patchwork Solutions in a Complex Scenario
Addressing the enormity of the disinformation threat requires multifaceted solutions. Proposals include the revival of local news, the implementation of information literacy programs, and the enactment of legislation targeting social media platforms.
Repairing the information environment around elections demands a comprehensive approach beyond merely tackling disinformation.
Political Landscape and Disinformation Dynamics
The potential Republican presidential nominee, often synonymous with the former president, introduces a dynamic where disinformation has played a pivotal role in shaping narratives.
The persistent lie of a "stolen" election has fueled distrust in the electoral process, posing challenges for future elections.
While some disseminators of disinformation have faced consequences, including job loss and legal actions, new players in right-wing media indicate a continued willingness to contribute to misinformation.
The emergence of local hyperpartisan news organizations adds another layer, potentially providing fodder for larger national conspiracy theories.
Influence on Local Election Dynamics
Disinformation doesn't solely impact voters; it also infiltrates smaller spheres of influence, comprising state lawmakers, election officials, and poll workers.
Movements promoting election denialism and misinformation operate on the local level, shaping attitudes toward elections and influencing the democratic process.
The visible example of political extremism during the Capitol breach in 2021 serves as a stark reminder of the real-world consequences of disinformation. Threats of violence at state capitols and during protests in 2020 underscore an alarming trend that experts fear may persist.
Old Narratives, New Technologies
While the underlying falsehoods may remain consistent, the tools for manufacturing propaganda have evolved. Advances in artificial intelligence, including chatbots and deepfake technology, provide easy-to-use tools for media manipulation.
The World Economic Forum identifies misinformation and disinformation from AI as a top global risk.
Back in October, experts feared that deepfakes will heavily impact the 2024 US Presidential Election. This in turn, will give way for the AI misinformation to aggravate the political phenomenon in the country.
