Disinformation remains a major campaign issue as US elections approach

It is even less clear what impact disinformation can have on the outcome of an election, since party affiliation is the main factor determining an individual voter’s choice, Buhler added.

“It’s hard to say how many votes were influenced by disinformation or disinformation. But in a close election – which the 2024 elections are likely to be – in principle, even a small number of votes can determine the outcome,” he told CNA.

LIES CAN CAUSE CHAOS

Experts say that once misinformation becomes known (whether its purpose is to support a candidate or simply sow chaos), it can easily spread naturally.

“It’s likely that most people who spread misinformation do so unconsciously,” said Darren Linville, co-director of Clemson University’s Center for Media Forensics, adding that some may be trapped in an echo chamber.

“They do this because the message confirms their existing beliefs. This makes them feel good about their existing beliefs, and for these reasons they share them.”