Source: Timothy A. Clary / Getty
As we move closer to the 2024 presidential election, NewsOne returns with Episode 19 of The Black Ballot, titled, “Conspiracy Theories Attack Democracy.”
This episode revisits how U.S. presidents’ decisions have shaped African Americans’ lives, focusing on pivotal moments in political history. Reflecting on how the pandemic created a breeding ground for misinformation and intensified social movements.
COVID-19 and Leadership in Crisis
COVID-19 devastated the globe, forcing Americans to confront a new and uncertain reality. The episode critiques President Trump’s response, which included denying science and dismantling Obama’s pandemic response team early in his term. Many Americans were left questioning whether their lives were truly in safe hands. As stay-at-home orders kept people indoors, social media became an even more significant part of daily life, amplifying voices and anxieties across the nation.
BLM and Social Media Activism
With millions at home, the video of George Floyd’s death and the stories of other Black victims quickly went viral, igniting a surge of protests. Social media became a powerful tool for mobilization and accountability. Tamika D. Mallory comments on the challenges of the social media, noting, “I’ve seen smear campaigns against me that came from people who looked like me, and of course those of our opposition.” She expresses disappointment in how “even if it’s from a racist news outlets,” Black people will still reshare certain posts. This episode also touches on the negative narrative about BLM leaders shared online.
The movement’s leaders faced intense scrutiny and were often vilified, which eventually led to a decline in BLM’s active presence. Mallory observes that the movement is “not as active” as it once was, partly due to misinformation campaigns that shifted public opinion.
Conspiracy Theories and Misinformation
As isolation took hold, so did conspiracy theories. With endless time online, misinformation spread rapidly, fueled by groups like QAnon, who aligned themselves with Trump. This episode explores how these theories attacked the democratic process, creating distrust and division among Americans. Joe Biden emerged as a candidate vowing to restore “the Soul of America” and bring back stability, presenting a stark contrast to Trump’s chaotic influence.
Insights from Key Commentators
This episode includes commentary from experts who discuss the pandemic’s political impact. The rise of social media activism, and how conspiracy theories threaten democratic institutions. They reflect on the struggles for truth, leadership, and unity amid a landscape flooded with misinformation.
Stay tuned for Episode 19 of The Black Ballot as the series continues to delve into pivotal moments in African American political history and the ever-evolving challenges facing American democracy.
SEE ALSO:
‘The Black Ballot’ Episode 17: Trump’s 2016 Plot Twist
‘The Black Ballot’ Episode 16: BLM And The Twitter Megaphone
