With the November elections approaching, a recent poll reveals that a vast majority of Americans are deeply concerned about the deliberate spread of disinformation on Big Tech platforms. A national survey commissioned by Free Press found that 79 percent of respondents worry about false information online. As Donald Trump and Joe Biden gear up for the elections, 76 percent are concerned about misinformation regarding the presidential race and local elections.
The rise of online disinformation has eroded trust in traditional media, leading to challenges in accessing accurate information. Concerns about AI-generated deep fakes and privacy issues with tech companies are also prevalent. Despite this, majorities access news through platforms like Facebook and YouTube, impacting local news outlets.
The survey highlights the need for media reform to combat disinformation and improve access to diverse news sources. Policy interventions are crucial to protect consumers and ensure a more inclusive media landscape. As funding for internet subsidies expires, lower-income communities face significant economic risks without access to online resources.
This poll, which oversampled minority populations, emphasizes the urgent need for a just and inclusive media ecosystem to support a multiracial democracy. It calls for unity against divisive forces and authoritarianism to inspire the desired changes in media and tech.
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