Changes

The motive of fake news is to either manipulate public opinion or to profit from advertising displayed on the fake news sites. The fake news can originate as a [[hoax]], as a tactical ploy by a political operative, as attempts to boost an audience using "click bait", or as mistaken reporting resulting from [[bias]].

The motive of fake news is to either manipulate public opinion or to profit from advertising displayed on the fake news sites. The fake news can originate as a [[hoax]], as a tactical ploy by a political operative, as attempts to boost an audience using "click bait", or as mistaken reporting resulting from [[bias]].

Fake news websites lack known publishers hindering lawsuits against them for [[libel]] or [[slander]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.cnn.com/2016/12/05/opinions/suing-fake-news-not-so-fast-callan/index.html|title=Sue over fake news? Not so fast|last=Callan|first=Paul|website=CNN|accessdate=April 6, 2017}}</ref> In many cases, the fake news websites resolve to IP addresses located outside the United States.

Fake news websites lack known publishers hindering lawsuits against them for [[libel]] or [[slander]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.cnn.com/2016/12/05/opinions/suing-fake-news-not-so-fast-callan/index.html|title=Sue over fake news? Not so fast|last=Callan|first=Paul|website=CNN|accessdate=April 6, 2017}}</ref> In many cases, the fake news websites resolve to IP addresses located outside the United States.

Previously [[liberals]], the [[mainstream media]], and [[social media]] had misapplied the term "fake news" to make the false accusation that [[Alternative Media|alternative news]] sources are "deliberately lying" to their readers, listeners, and viewers, and that these "lies" helped elect [[Donald Trump]] [[President of the United States]]. The liberal-pushed "fake news" accusations are a form of [[conspiracy theory]]. However, the [[mainstream media]] itself publishes and promotes fake news stories from appearing in its nightly network newscasts, on its cable news channels, in its newspapers and on its websites (including Facebook).<ref name="Tech Crunch">{{cite web|url=https://techcrunch.com/2017/02/14/facebook-fake-news-code-media/|title=Facebook is still figuring out how to tackle fake news|date=Feb 14, 2017|accessdate=June 29, 2017|work=Tech Crunch}}</ref><ref name="Barron">{{cite news|url=http://ajr.org/2015/04/03/news-sites-fall-for-fake-news|title=Even News Sites Fall for Fake News|first=Rachel|last=Barron|date=April 3, 2017|accessdate=June 29, 2017|work=American Journalism Review}}</ref>

Previously [[liberals]], the [[mainstream media]], and [[social media]] had misapplied the term "fake news" to make the false accusation that [[Alternative Media|alternative news]] sources are "deliberately lying" to their readers, listeners, and viewers, and that these "lies" helped elect [[Donald Trump]] [[President of the United States]]. The liberal-pushed "fake news" accusations are a form of [[conspiracy theory]]. However, the [[mainstream media]] itself publishes and promotes fake news stories from appearing in its nightly network newscasts, on its cable news channels, in its newspapers and on its websites (including Facebook).<ref name="Tech Crunch">{{cite web|url=https://techcrunch.com/2017/02/14/facebook-fake-news-code-media/|title=Facebook is still figuring out how to tackle fake news|date=Feb 14, 2017|accessdate=June 29, 2017|work=Tech Crunch}}</ref><ref name="Barron">{{cite news|url=http://ajr.org/2015/04/03/news-sites-fall-for-fake-news|title=Even News Sites Fall for Fake News|first=Rachel|last=Barron|date=April 3, 2017|accessdate=June 29, 2017|work=American Journalism Review}}</ref>

Cybersecurity experts began using the term "fake news" to describe social media postings that attempted to spread false information regardless of the political ramifications of its content.

Cybersecurity experts began using the term "fake news" to describe social media postings that attempted to spread false information regardless of the political ramifications of its content.

The widespread public use of the phrase by non-experts probably originated on November 14, 2016 in an announcement by [[Google]].  They said their advertising service was being pulled from sites whose purpose was to present as news what was solely designed to attract attention rather than conducted in a factual manner by a responsible party.<ref>Nicas, Jack (November 14, 2016). [http://www.wsj.com/articles/google-to-bar-fake-news-websites-from-using-its-ad-selling-software-1479164646 "Google to bar fake-news websites from using its ad-selling software"]. ''Wall Street Journal''.</ref>  Fake news is also a form of "click bait".  A photo would appear in an ad implying that there was a news story about the death of a celebrity, and computer users would click on the link to be taken to a website that carried heavy advertising, but no news story about the death of the living celebrity.

The widespread public use of the phrase by non-experts probably originated on November 14, 2016 in an announcement by [[Google]].  They said their advertising service was being pulled from sites whose purpose was to present as news what was solely designed to attract attention rather than conducted in a factual manner by a responsible party.<ref>Nicas, Jack (November 14, 2016). [https://www.wsj.com/articles/google-to-bar-fake-news-websites-from-using-its-ad-selling-software-1479164646 "Google to bar fake-news websites from using its ad-selling software"]. ''Wall Street Journal''.</ref>  Fake news is also a form of "click bait".  A photo would appear in an ad implying that there was a news story about the death of a celebrity, and computer users would click on the link to be taken to a website that carried heavy advertising, but no news story about the death of the living celebrity.

[[Barack Hussein Obama]] was a firm believer in projecting what was news and what was fake news. He would famously deride publicly against the reporting of "[[Fox News]], [[Rush Limbaugh]] and talk radio." [[Bill Clinton]] engaged in similar behavior during an interview with [[Chris Wallace]] shortly after the airing of the edited version of The Path to 9/11.

[[Barack Hussein Obama]] was a firm believer in projecting what was news and what was fake news. He would famously deride publicly against the reporting of "[[Fox News]], [[Rush Limbaugh]] and talk radio." [[Bill Clinton]] engaged in similar behavior during an interview with [[Chris Wallace]] shortly after the airing of the edited version of The Path to 9/11.

Fake news is frequently used by radical Islamic terrorists to recruit new adherents.  The terrorists will either create or embellish fake news accounts of anti-Islamic acts to radicalize members in target populations. For example, terrorists would spread news accounts of people urinating on the Koran at U.S. military prisons.  Another fake news item was that a U.S. company was hiring mercenaries to kill ISIS militants.<ref name=snopes/> Again, the emotional impact of the fake news assured that it would spread quickly through social media.

Fake news is frequently used by radical Islamic terrorists to recruit new adherents.  The terrorists will either create or embellish fake news accounts of anti-Islamic acts to radicalize members in target populations. For example, terrorists would spread news accounts of people urinating on the Koran at U.S. military prisons.  Another fake news item was that a U.S. company was hiring mercenaries to kill ISIS militants.<ref name=snopes/> Again, the emotional impact of the fake news assured that it would spread quickly through social media.

According to FBI cyber experts, during the 2016 presidential election, Russians used armies of Twitter bots to spread fake news using accounts that seem to be Midwestern swing-voter Republicans.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.npr.org/sections/alltechconsidered/2017/04/03/522503844/how-russian-twitter-bots-pumped-out-fake-news-during-the-2016-election|title=How Russian Twitter Bots Pumped Out Fake News During The 2016 Election|date=April 3, 2017|work=NPR|accessdate=April 4, 2017}}</ref> Leading up to the March 15, 2017 election in the Netherlands, Russia was found to use social media to spread "fake news" to influence public opinion.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.politico.eu/article/russia-spread-fake-news-during-dutch-election-report-putin/|title=Russia spread fake news during Dutch election: report|date=April 4, 2017|work=Politico|accessdate=April 4, 2017}}</ref>

According to FBI cyber experts, during the 2016 presidential election, Russians used armies of Twitter bots to spread fake news using accounts that seem to be Midwestern swing-voter Republicans.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.npr.org/sections/alltechconsidered/2017/04/03/522503844/how-russian-twitter-bots-pumped-out-fake-news-during-the-2016-election|title=How Russian Twitter Bots Pumped Out Fake News During The 2016 Election|date=April 3, 2017|work=NPR|accessdate=April 4, 2017}}</ref> Leading up to the March 15, 2017 election in the Netherlands, Russia was found to use social media to spread "fake news" to influence public opinion.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.politico.eu/article/russia-spread-fake-news-during-dutch-election-report-putin/|title=Russia spread fake news during Dutch election: report|date=April 4, 2017|work=Politico|accessdate=April 4, 2017}}</ref>

One possible example of fake news was the announcement by the [[mainstream media]] that [[Fidel Castro]] died at age 90 on November 25, 2016.<ref>http://www.cnn.com/2016/11/26/americas/fidel-castro-obit/</ref> In fact, the [[Obama Administration]] and major news outlets were likely aware that Castro had died of a terminal illness many years earlier.  Indeed, [[Obama]] did not even mention, let alone visit, Castro during Obama's visit to Cuba in March 2016, and neither the president, vice-president, or other high-ranking elected official of the United States attended Castro's "funeral".

One possible example of fake news was the announcement by the [[mainstream media]] that [[Fidel Castro]] died at age 90 on November 25, 2016.<ref>https://www.cnn.com/2016/11/26/americas/fidel-castro-obit/</ref> In fact, the [[Obama Administration]] and major news outlets were likely aware that Castro had died of a terminal illness many years earlier.  Indeed, [[Obama]] did not even mention, let alone visit, Castro during Obama's visit to Cuba in March 2016, and neither the president, vice-president, or other high-ranking elected official of the United States attended Castro's "funeral".

One fake news item from ''Freedom Daily'' in February 2017 was: "BREAKING: Federal Judge Just Officially Ruled CNN Is FAKE NEWS And Forces SHOCKING Punishment On Them!" However, this was a mis-reporting of a Georgia federal district court judge denying CNN's motion for summary judgment in a defamation action filed by a hospital executive against CNN.  No "shocking punishment" was involved and the case will go to trial on the merits.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.snopes.com/cnn-fake-news/|title=Did a Judge Rule That CNN Is 'Fake News'?|date=Feb 17, 2017|accessdate=April 5, 2017|work=Snopes}}</ref>

One fake news item from ''Freedom Daily'' in February 2017 was: "BREAKING: Federal Judge Just Officially Ruled CNN Is FAKE NEWS And Forces SHOCKING Punishment On Them!" However, this was a mis-reporting of a Georgia federal district court judge denying CNN's motion for summary judgment in a defamation action filed by a hospital executive against CNN.  No "shocking punishment" was involved and the case will go to trial on the merits.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.snopes.com/cnn-fake-news/|title=Did a Judge Rule That CNN Is 'Fake News'?|date=Feb 17, 2017|accessdate=April 5, 2017|work=Snopes}}</ref>

A poorly-sourced February 4 ''Washington Post'' article claimed a feud existed between DHS Secretary [[John F. Kelly]] and [[Steve Bannon]], when in fact, none existed. The article's author was forced to admit his error.<ref>Hayward, John (February 8, 2017). [http://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2017/02/08/fake-news-dhs-secretary-calls-wapo-john-kelly-steve-bannon-feud-a-fantasy-story/ Fake News: DHS Secretary Calls WaPo ‘John Kelly-Steve Bannon Feud’ a ‘Fantasy Story’]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved May 18, 2017.</ref> In June 2017, the [[Associated Press]] reported, and later corrected, a story that EPA Administrator [[Scott Pruitt]] met with Dow Chemical CEO Andrew Liveris – something which did not actually happen.<ref>Boyle, Matthew (June 30, 2017). [http://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2017/06/30/fake-news-associated-press-engulfed-in-cnn-level-scandal-as-it-covers-up-invention-of-imaginary-pruitt-meeting/ Fake News: Associated Press Engulfed in CNN-Level Scandal as It Covers Up Invention of Imaginary Pruitt Meeting]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved July 1, 2017.</ref>

A poorly-sourced February 4 ''Washington Post'' article claimed a feud existed between DHS Secretary [[John F. Kelly]] and [[Steve Bannon]], when in fact, none existed. The article's author was forced to admit his error.<ref>Hayward, John (February 8, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2017/02/08/fake-news-dhs-secretary-calls-wapo-john-kelly-steve-bannon-feud-a-fantasy-story/ Fake News: DHS Secretary Calls WaPo ‘John Kelly-Steve Bannon Feud’ a ‘Fantasy Story’]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved May 18, 2017.</ref> In June 2017, the [[Associated Press]] reported, and later corrected, a story that EPA Administrator [[Scott Pruitt]] met with Dow Chemical CEO Andrew Liveris – something which did not actually happen.<ref>Boyle, Matthew (June 30, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2017/06/30/fake-news-associated-press-engulfed-in-cnn-level-scandal-as-it-covers-up-invention-of-imaginary-pruitt-meeting/ Fake News: Associated Press Engulfed in CNN-Level Scandal as It Covers Up Invention of Imaginary Pruitt Meeting]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved July 1, 2017.</ref>

In November 2017, ''The Washington Post'' claimed that the conservative [[Breitbart News]] created the nickname "Mr. Perfect" when referring to [[Jared Kushner]], while in reality, Kushner's own companies created the nickname to promote themselves in China.<ref>Mason, Ian (November 27, 2017). [http://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2017/11/27/wapo-forgets-kushners-came-up-with-mr-perfect-on-their-own/ WaPo Forgets Kushners Came Up with ‘Mr. Perfect’ on Their Own]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved November 27, 2017.</ref> Also in November 2017, [[MSNBC]]'s ''Morning Joe'' show was caught broadcasting a pre-taped post-Thanksgiving show while pretending on air to be broadcasting live.<ref>Rodriguez, Katherine (November 26, 2017). [http://www.breitbart.com/big-journalism/2017/11/26/fake-news-morning-joe-caught-pretending-pre-taped-day-thanksgiving-show-live/ Fake News: Morning Joe Caught Pretending Pre-Taped Day After Thanksgiving Show Was Live]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved November 27, 2017.</ref>

In November 2017, ''The Washington Post'' claimed that the conservative [[Breitbart News]] created the nickname "Mr. Perfect" when referring to [[Jared Kushner]], while in reality, Kushner's own companies created the nickname to promote themselves in China.<ref>Mason, Ian (November 27, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2017/11/27/wapo-forgets-kushners-came-up-with-mr-perfect-on-their-own/ WaPo Forgets Kushners Came Up with ‘Mr. Perfect’ on Their Own]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved November 27, 2017.</ref> Also in November 2017, [[MSNBC]]'s ''Morning Joe'' show was caught broadcasting a pre-taped post-Thanksgiving show while pretending on air to be broadcasting live.<ref>Rodriguez, Katherine (November 26, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/big-journalism/2017/11/26/fake-news-morning-joe-caught-pretending-pre-taped-day-thanksgiving-show-live/ Fake News: Morning Joe Caught Pretending Pre-Taped Day After Thanksgiving Show Was Live]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved November 27, 2017.</ref>

In April 2018, the Associated Press and ''The Washington Post'' falsely claimed that the NRA decided to ban concealed carry at an upcoming speech by Vice President [[Mike Pence]] at its convention, when it was actually the Secret Service that forced the organization to do so.<ref>Multiple references:

In April 2018, the Associated Press and ''The Washington Post'' falsely claimed that the NRA decided to ban concealed carry at an upcoming speech by Vice President [[Mike Pence]] at its convention, when it was actually the Secret Service that forced the organization to do so.<ref>Multiple references:

*Hawkins, Awr (April 30, 2018). [http://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2018/04/30/fake-news-ap-wapo-claim-nra-bans-guns-at-mike-pence-speech/ Fake News: AP, WaPo Claim NRA Bans Guns at Mike Pence Speech]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved April 30, 2018.

*Hawkins, Awr (April 30, 2018). [https://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2018/04/30/fake-news-ap-wapo-claim-nra-bans-guns-at-mike-pence-speech/ Fake News: AP, WaPo Claim NRA Bans Guns at Mike Pence Speech]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved April 30, 2018.

*Adelmann, Bob (May 1, 2018). [https://www.thenewamerican.com/usnews/item/28948-more-fake-news-nra-bans-guns-at-its-own-convention More Fake News: NRA Bans Guns at Its Own Convention!] ''The New American''. Retrieved May 1, 2018.

*Adelmann, Bob (May 1, 2018). [https://www.thenewamerican.com/usnews/item/28948-more-fake-news-nra-bans-guns-at-its-own-convention More Fake News: NRA Bans Guns at Its Own Convention!] ''The New American''. Retrieved May 1, 2018.

*Richardson, Bradford (April 30, 2018). [https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2018/apr/30/associated-press-issues-correction-report-nra-bann/ AP issues correction on report that NRA banned guns for Mike Pence speech]. ''The Washington Times''. Retrieved April 30, 2018.

*Richardson, Bradford (April 30, 2018). [https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2018/apr/30/associated-press-issues-correction-report-nra-bann/ AP issues correction on report that NRA banned guns for Mike Pence speech]. ''The Washington Times''. Retrieved April 30, 2018.

*Concha, Joe (April 30, 2018). [http://thehill.com/homenews/media/385563-ap-corrects-earlier-report-that-nra-banned-guns-at-pence-speech AP corrects earlier report that NRA banned guns at Pence speech]. ''The Hill''. Retrieved April 30, 2018.</ref>

*Concha, Joe (April 30, 2018). [https://thehill.com/homenews/media/385563-ap-corrects-earlier-report-that-nra-banned-guns-at-pence-speech AP corrects earlier report that NRA banned guns at Pence speech]. ''The Hill''. Retrieved April 30, 2018.</ref>

=== CNN and fake news ===

=== CNN and fake news ===

</ref> President [[Donald Trump]] publicly says CNN produces "fake news" and he also told a CNN reporter that CNN produces "very fake news".<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G-7nkj26edA Trump to CNN: "Very Fake News"]</ref>  Subsequently, CNN has been derided as being "FNN: Fake News Network".<ref>[http://insider.foxnews.com/2017/06/27/president-trump-blasts-cnn-retracted-russia-story-fake-news  'Fake News Network': Trump Blasts CNN for Retracted Russia Story], Fox News Network</ref>

</ref> President [[Donald Trump]] publicly says CNN produces "fake news" and he also told a CNN reporter that CNN produces "very fake news".<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G-7nkj26edA Trump to CNN: "Very Fake News"]</ref>  Subsequently, CNN has been derided as being "FNN: Fake News Network".<ref>[http://insider.foxnews.com/2017/06/27/president-trump-blasts-cnn-retracted-russia-story-fake-news  'Fake News Network': Trump Blasts CNN for Retracted Russia Story], Fox News Network</ref>

In May 2017, a CNN program claimed that [[Islam]] "has always been part of the American fabric" even as far back as the American Revolution, despite the apparent contradiction with the historical record.<ref>Pollak, Joel B. (May 29, 2017). [http://www.breitbart.com/big-journalism/2017/05/29/cnns-crusade-declare-islam-part-americas-founding/ CNN’s W. Kamau Bell: Islam Part of America’s Founding]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved May 29, 2017.</ref>

In May 2017, a CNN program claimed that [[Islam]] "has always been part of the American fabric" even as far back as the American Revolution, despite the apparent contradiction with the historical record.<ref>Pollak, Joel B. (May 29, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/big-journalism/2017/05/29/cnns-crusade-declare-islam-part-americas-founding/ CNN’s W. Kamau Bell: Islam Part of America’s Founding]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved May 29, 2017.</ref>

On March 28, 2018, CNN anchor Chris Cuomo falsely claimed that "no one [is] calling for Second Amendment repeal", even though, former Supreme Court Justice [[John Paul Stevens]], among other left-wingers, had very recently and notably called for just that.<ref>Multiple references:

On March 28, 2018, CNN anchor Chris Cuomo falsely claimed that "no one [is] calling for Second Amendment repeal", even though, former Supreme Court Justice [[John Paul Stevens]], among other left-wingers, had very recently and notably called for just that.<ref>Multiple references:

*Nolte, John (March 28, 2018). [http://www.breitbart.com/big-journalism/2018/03/28/fake-news-cnns-cuomo-says-no-one-calling-for-2nd-amendment-repeal-they-are/ Fake News: CNN’s Cuomo Says ‘No One Calling for 2nd Amendment Repeal’ (They Are)]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved March 28, 2018.

*Nolte, John (March 28, 2018). [https://www.breitbart.com/big-journalism/2018/03/28/fake-news-cnns-cuomo-says-no-one-calling-for-2nd-amendment-repeal-they-are/ Fake News: CNN’s Cuomo Says ‘No One Calling for 2nd Amendment Repeal’ (They Are)]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved March 28, 2018.

*Kugle, Andrew (March 28, 2018). [http://freebeacon.com/issues/cnns-cuomo-no-one-calling-repeal-second-amendment/ CNN’s Cuomo: No One Is Calling for Repeal of Second Amendment]. ''The Washington Free Beacon''. Retrieved March 28, 2018.

*Kugle, Andrew (March 28, 2018). [https://freebeacon.com/issues/cnns-cuomo-no-one-calling-repeal-second-amendment/ CNN’s Cuomo: No One Is Calling for Repeal of Second Amendment]. ''The Washington Free Beacon''. Retrieved March 28, 2018.

*Adams, Becket (March 28, 2018). [https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/opinion/cnn-host-apparently-unaware-that-several-people-have-called-for-the-repeal-of-the-second-amendment CNN host apparently unaware that people have indeed called for the repeal of the Second Amendment]. ''Washington Examiner''. Retrieved March 28, 2018.</ref>

*Adams, Becket (March 28, 2018). [https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/opinion/cnn-host-apparently-unaware-that-several-people-have-called-for-the-repeal-of-the-second-amendment CNN host apparently unaware that people have indeed called for the repeal of the Second Amendment]. ''Washington Examiner''. Retrieved March 28, 2018.</ref>

A topic of fake news stories after the 2016 election was whether there was violence between Trump supporters and opponents.  After the 2016 election, several violent and disturbing anti-Trump attacks occurred throughout the nation against Trump supporters or supposed Trump supporters. Despite these attacks, liberals and leftists only focused on alleged "attacks" by Trump supporters against minorities and others (the leftist narrative, although being blatantly false and one-sided, fits their manufactured narrative that Trump supporters are "racist" and "evil" and that leftists are "tolerant" and "forgiving"). Fox News found that despite the number of real anti-Trump attacks which went largely unreported, several of the "pro-Trump" attacks were hoaxes.<ref>[http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2017/01/05/facebook-live-attack-latest-in-string-anti-trump-assaults.html Facebook Live attack the latest in string of anti-Trump assaults]. ''Fox News''. January 5, 2017. Retrieved January 8, 2017.</ref>

A topic of fake news stories after the 2016 election was whether there was violence between Trump supporters and opponents.  After the 2016 election, several violent and disturbing anti-Trump attacks occurred throughout the nation against Trump supporters or supposed Trump supporters. Despite these attacks, liberals and leftists only focused on alleged "attacks" by Trump supporters against minorities and others (the leftist narrative, although being blatantly false and one-sided, fits their manufactured narrative that Trump supporters are "racist" and "evil" and that leftists are "tolerant" and "forgiving"). Fox News found that despite the number of real anti-Trump attacks which went largely unreported, several of the "pro-Trump" attacks were hoaxes.<ref>[http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2017/01/05/facebook-live-attack-latest-in-string-anti-trump-assaults.html Facebook Live attack the latest in string of anti-Trump assaults]. ''Fox News''. January 5, 2017. Retrieved January 8, 2017.</ref>

One widely shared fake story, spread by the mainstream media, that Trump's election had led to a rise in anti-Semitism by white supremcists—it turned out that bomb threats at a synagogue were actually carried out by "an African-American left-wing journalist" and a "Jewish teenager in Israel, with dual citizenship in the U.S."<ref>Pollak, Joel (March 29, 2017). [http://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2017/03/29/fake-news-donald-trump-antisemitism-vindicated/ Donald Trump Vindicated: Antisemitism Surge ‘Fake News’]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved March 29, 2017.</ref>

One widely shared fake story, spread by the mainstream media, that Trump's election had led to a rise in anti-Semitism by white supremcists—it turned out that bomb threats at a synagogue were actually carried out by "an African-American left-wing journalist" and a "Jewish teenager in Israel, with dual citizenship in the U.S."<ref>Pollak, Joel (March 29, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2017/03/29/fake-news-donald-trump-antisemitism-vindicated/ Donald Trump Vindicated: Antisemitism Surge ‘Fake News’]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved March 29, 2017.</ref>

Following the 2016 election in which Trump won, [[liberals]], the [[mainstream media]], and [[social media]] had misapplied the term "fake news" to make the false accusation that [[Alternative Media|alternative news]] and Russian sources are "deliberately lying" to their readers, listeners, and viewers, and that these "lies" helped elect [[Donald Trump]] [[President of the United States]]. The liberal-pushed "fake news" accusations are a form of [[conspiracy theory]]. However, the [[mainstream media]]  itself publishes and promotes fake news stories,<ref>Heinlein, Peter (May 30, 2017). [https://www.voanews.com/a/donald-trump-frustrated-fake-news-overlooks-accomplishments/3878266.html Trump Frustrated by 'Fake News' That Overlooks His Accomplishments]. ''Voice of America''. Retrieved June 26, 2017.</ref> from appearing in its nightly network newscasts, on its cable news channels, in its newspapers and on its websites (including Facebook). The MSM has allegedly been adopting safeguards to prevent itself from reporting fake news stories,<ref name="Tech Crunch"/><ref name="Barron"/> but it has been unsuccessful based on more recent examples.

Following the 2016 election in which Trump won, [[liberals]], the [[mainstream media]], and [[social media]] had misapplied the term "fake news" to make the false accusation that [[Alternative Media|alternative news]] and Russian sources are "deliberately lying" to their readers, listeners, and viewers, and that these "lies" helped elect [[Donald Trump]] [[President of the United States]]. The liberal-pushed "fake news" accusations are a form of [[conspiracy theory]]. However, the [[mainstream media]]  itself publishes and promotes fake news stories,<ref>Heinlein, Peter (May 30, 2017). [https://www.voanews.com/a/donald-trump-frustrated-fake-news-overlooks-accomplishments/3878266.html Trump Frustrated by 'Fake News' That Overlooks His Accomplishments]. ''Voice of America''. Retrieved June 26, 2017.</ref> from appearing in its nightly network newscasts, on its cable news channels, in its newspapers and on its websites (including Facebook). The MSM has allegedly been adopting safeguards to prevent itself from reporting fake news stories,<ref name="Tech Crunch"/><ref name="Barron"/> but it has been unsuccessful based on more recent examples.

====Presidency====

====Presidency====

At his first press conference as president-elect, [[Donald Trump]] described [[CNN]] as "fake news."  Since becoming president, Trump has accused major news organizations with "fake news" and "very fake news."  On February 17, 2017, Trump tweeted:<ref>Greenwood, Mark (February 17, 2017). [http://thehill.com/homenews/administration/320168-trump-the-media-is-the-enemy-of-the-american-people Trump tweets: The media is the 'enemy of the American people']. ''The Hill''. Retrieved February 27, 2017.</ref>

At his first press conference as president-elect, [[Donald Trump]] described [[CNN]] as "fake news."  Since becoming president, Trump has accused major news organizations with "fake news" and "very fake news."  On February 17, 2017, Trump tweeted:<ref>Greenwood, Mark (February 17, 2017). [https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/320168-trump-the-media-is-the-enemy-of-the-american-people Trump tweets: The media is the 'enemy of the American people']. ''The Hill''. Retrieved February 27, 2017.</ref>

{{cquote|The FAKE NEWS media (failing @nytimes, @NBCNews, @ABC, @CBS, @CNN) is not my enemy, it is the enemy of the American People!}}

{{cquote|The FAKE NEWS media (failing @nytimes, @NBCNews, @ABC, @CBS, @CNN) is not my enemy, it is the enemy of the American People!}}

On November 27, 2017, President Trump tweeted:<ref>Spiering, Charlie (November 27, 2017). [http://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2017/11/27/trump-proposes-fake-news-trophy-tv-networks-cnn/ Donald Trump Proposes ‘Fake News Trophy’ for TV Networks and CNN]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved November 28, 2017.</ref><ref>Fabian, Jordan (November 27, 2017). [http://thehill.com/homenews/administration/361932-trump-media-should-compete-for-fake-news-trophy Trump: Media should compete for 'FAKE NEWS TROPHY']. ''The Hill''. Retrieved November 28, 2017.</ref>

On November 27, 2017, President Trump tweeted:<ref>Spiering, Charlie (November 27, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2017/11/27/trump-proposes-fake-news-trophy-tv-networks-cnn/ Donald Trump Proposes ‘Fake News Trophy’ for TV Networks and CNN]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved November 28, 2017.</ref><ref>Fabian, Jordan (November 27, 2017). [https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/361932-trump-media-should-compete-for-fake-news-trophy Trump: Media should compete for 'FAKE NEWS TROPHY']. ''The Hill''. Retrieved November 28, 2017.</ref>

{{cquote|We should have a contest as to which of the Networks, plus CNN and not including Fox, is the most dishonest, corrupt and/or distorted in its political coverage of your favorite President (me). They are all bad. Winner to receive the FAKE NEWS TROPHY!}}

{{cquote|We should have a contest as to which of the Networks, plus CNN and not including Fox, is the most dishonest, corrupt and/or distorted in its political coverage of your favorite President (me). They are all bad. Winner to receive the FAKE NEWS TROPHY!}}

''The Washington Post'' reported in June 2017 of a meeting held between President Trump and [[Federal Communications Commission]] Chairman [[Ajit Pai]] that never occurred.<ref>Moran, Sean (June 23, 2017). [http://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2017/06/23/fake-news-washington-post-invents-meeting-between-fcc-chair-ajit-pai-and-president-trump/ Fake News: Washington Post Invents Meeting Between FCC Chair Ajit Pai and President Trump]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved June 24, 2017.</ref>

''The Washington Post'' reported in June 2017 of a meeting held between President Trump and [[Federal Communications Commission]] Chairman [[Ajit Pai]] that never occurred.<ref>Moran, Sean (June 23, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2017/06/23/fake-news-washington-post-invents-meeting-between-fcc-chair-ajit-pai-and-president-trump/ Fake News: Washington Post Invents Meeting Between FCC Chair Ajit Pai and President Trump]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved June 24, 2017.</ref>

Also in June 2017, ''The New York Times'' falsely stated that 17 U.S. intelligence agencies agreed with an assessment that Russia made hacks into the 2016 presidential election – the actual number was four, with one dissenting from the report's conclusions.<ref>Mason, Ian (June 30, 2017). [http://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2017/06/30/nyt-turns-out-17-intelligence-agencies-was-fake-news/ New York Times: Turns Out ‘17 Intelligence Agencies’ Was Fake News]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved July 1, 2017.</ref> The Associated Press reported, and retracted, the same falsehood.<ref>Klein, Aaron (July 1, 2017). [http://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2017/07/01/fake-news-associated-press-clarifies-17-intel-agencies-did-not-assess-alleged-russia-interference/ Fake News: Associated Press Clarifies 17 U.S. Intel Agencies Did Not Assess Russia ‘Interference’]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved July 1, 2017.</ref> Obama Administration [[Director of National Intelligence]] confirmed that "the report itself makes it clear that it was the three agencies plus the Office of the Director of National Intelligence that put this intelligence community assessment together."<ref>Poor, Jeff (July 7, 2017). [http://www.breitbart.com/video/2017/07/07/fmr-obama-dni-clapper-3-4-intelligence-agencies-agreed-russian-interference-wasnt-17/ Fmr Obama DNI Clapper: Only 3 or 4 Intelligence Agencies Agreed on Russian Interference — ‘It Wasn’t 17’]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved July 7, 2017.</ref>

Also in June 2017, ''The New York Times'' falsely stated that 17 U.S. intelligence agencies agreed with an assessment that Russia made hacks into the 2016 presidential election – the actual number was four, with one dissenting from the report's conclusions.<ref>Mason, Ian (June 30, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2017/06/30/nyt-turns-out-17-intelligence-agencies-was-fake-news/ New York Times: Turns Out ‘17 Intelligence Agencies’ Was Fake News]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved July 1, 2017.</ref> The Associated Press reported, and retracted, the same falsehood.<ref>Klein, Aaron (July 1, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2017/07/01/fake-news-associated-press-clarifies-17-intel-agencies-did-not-assess-alleged-russia-interference/ Fake News: Associated Press Clarifies 17 U.S. Intel Agencies Did Not Assess Russia ‘Interference’]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved July 1, 2017.</ref> Obama Administration [[Director of National Intelligence]] confirmed that "the report itself makes it clear that it was the three agencies plus the Office of the Director of National Intelligence that put this intelligence community assessment together."<ref>Poor, Jeff (July 7, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/video/2017/07/07/fmr-obama-dni-clapper-3-4-intelligence-agencies-agreed-russian-interference-wasnt-17/ Fmr Obama DNI Clapper: Only 3 or 4 Intelligence Agencies Agreed on Russian Interference — ‘It Wasn’t 17’]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved July 7, 2017.</ref>

In May 2018, left-wing activists and some members of the mainstream media, such as New York Times Magazine editor-in-chief Jake Silverstein and NPR, shared pictures of detained illegal immigrant children sleeping in cages and blamed the Trump Administration for it despite those pictures having been taken during the Obama Administration.<ref>Multiple references:

In May 2018, left-wing activists and some members of the mainstream media, such as New York Times Magazine editor-in-chief Jake Silverstein and NPR, shared pictures of detained illegal immigrant children sleeping in cages and blamed the Trump Administration for it despite those pictures having been taken during the Obama Administration.<ref>Multiple references:

*Flood, Brian (May 29, 2018). [http://www.foxnews.com/entertainment/2018/05/29/embarrassment-for-new-york-times-as-top-editor-falls-for-old-photo-amid-weekend-misleading-anti-trump-tweets.html Embarrassment for New York Times as top editor falls for old photo amid weekend of misleading anti-Trump tweets]. ''Fox News''. Retrieved May 29, 2018.

*Flood, Brian (May 29, 2018). [http://www.foxnews.com/entertainment/2018/05/29/embarrassment-for-new-york-times-as-top-editor-falls-for-old-photo-amid-weekend-misleading-anti-trump-tweets.html Embarrassment for New York Times as top editor falls for old photo amid weekend of misleading anti-Trump tweets]. ''Fox News''. Retrieved May 29, 2018.

*Starr, Penny (May 30, 2018). [http://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2018/05/30/aclu-npr-use-2014-claims-to-trash-trump-policy/ ACLU, NPR Use 2014 Immigration Claims to Trash Trump Policy]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved May 30, 2018.

*Starr, Penny (May 30, 2018). [https://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2018/05/30/aclu-npr-use-2014-claims-to-trash-trump-policy/ ACLU, NPR Use 2014 Immigration Claims to Trash Trump Policy]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved May 30, 2018.

*Mikelionis, Lukas (May 28, 2018). [http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2018/05/28/former-obama-official-liberal-activists-share-2014-photos-from-detention-facility-as-swipe-at-trump.html Former Obama official, liberal activists share 2014 photos from detention facility as swipe at Trump]. ''Fox News''. Retrieved May 29, 2018.

*Mikelionis, Lukas (May 28, 2018). [http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2018/05/28/former-obama-official-liberal-activists-share-2014-photos-from-detention-facility-as-swipe-at-trump.html Former Obama official, liberal activists share 2014 photos from detention facility as swipe at Trump]. ''Fox News''. Retrieved May 29, 2018.

*Spiering, Charlie (May 29, 2018). [http://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2018/05/29/donald-trump-rips-democrats-for-tweeting-border-pictures-from-2014/ Donald Trump Rips Democrats for Tweeting Border Pictures from 2014]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved May 29, 2018.</ref> An Associated Press report discussing alleged abuse at an illegal immigrant detention center left out the fact that Obama was president when the abuse happened.<ref>Scarry, Eddie (June 21, 2018). [https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/ap-report-on-alleged-illegal-immigrant-abuse-at-detention-centers-omits-obama-was-president-at-time AP report on alleged illegal immigrant abuse at detention centers omits Obama was president at time]. ''Washington Examiner''. Retrieved June 21, 2018.</ref> Other media sources have published fake news about President Trump's immigration policies.<ref>Binder, John (June 1, 2018). [http://www.breitbart.com/big-journalism/2018/06/01/establishment-media-issues-four-corrections-after-falsely-claiming-trump-separating-families-at-border/ Establishment Media Issues Four Corrections After Falsely Claiming Trump Separating Families at Border]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved June 2, 2018.</ref><ref>Nolte, John (July 9, 2018). [https://www.breitbart.com/big-journalism/2018/07/09/associated-press-becomes-fake-news-factory-with-immigration-lies/ Associated Press Becomes Fake News Factory with Immigration Lies]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved July 9, 2018.</ref>

*Spiering, Charlie (May 29, 2018). [https://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2018/05/29/donald-trump-rips-democrats-for-tweeting-border-pictures-from-2014/ Donald Trump Rips Democrats for Tweeting Border Pictures from 2014]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved May 29, 2018.</ref> An Associated Press report discussing alleged abuse at an illegal immigrant detention center left out the fact that Obama was president when the abuse happened.<ref>Scarry, Eddie (June 21, 2018). [https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/ap-report-on-alleged-illegal-immigrant-abuse-at-detention-centers-omits-obama-was-president-at-time AP report on alleged illegal immigrant abuse at detention centers omits Obama was president at time]. ''Washington Examiner''. Retrieved June 21, 2018.</ref> Other media sources have published fake news about President Trump's immigration policies.<ref>Binder, John (June 1, 2018). [https://www.breitbart.com/big-journalism/2018/06/01/establishment-media-issues-four-corrections-after-falsely-claiming-trump-separating-families-at-border/ Establishment Media Issues Four Corrections After Falsely Claiming Trump Separating Families at Border]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved June 2, 2018.</ref><ref>Nolte, John (July 9, 2018). [https://www.breitbart.com/big-journalism/2018/07/09/associated-press-becomes-fake-news-factory-with-immigration-lies/ Associated Press Becomes Fake News Factory with Immigration Lies]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved July 9, 2018.</ref>

====Russia investigation and James Comey hearing====

====Russia investigation and James Comey hearing====

[[File:DgKWrfIVMAANg8k.jpeg|right|300px|thumb]]

[[File:DgKWrfIVMAANg8k.jpeg|right|300px|thumb]]

Former FBI Director [[James Comey]], during his testimony to Congress, debunked two fake news stories on ''The New York Times''<ref>Scarborough, Rowan (June 8, 2017). [http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2017/jun/8/james-comey-debunks-new-york-times-story-fueled-un/ James Comey debunks New York Times story that fueled unproven Trump-Russia collusion]. ''The Washington Times''. Retrieved June 9, 2017.</ref> and CNN,<ref>Pollak, Joel B. (June 7, 2017). [http://www.breitbart.com/big-journalism/2017/06/07/james-comey-testimony-proves-trump-right-cnn-wrong/ James Comey Testimony Proves Trump Right, CNN Wrong]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved June 9, 2017.</ref> respectively.

Former FBI Director [[James Comey]], during his testimony to Congress, debunked two fake news stories on ''The New York Times''<ref>Scarborough, Rowan (June 8, 2017). [https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2017/jun/8/james-comey-debunks-new-york-times-story-fueled-un/ James Comey debunks New York Times story that fueled unproven Trump-Russia collusion]. ''The Washington Times''. Retrieved June 9, 2017.</ref> and CNN,<ref>Pollak, Joel B. (June 7, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/big-journalism/2017/06/07/james-comey-testimony-proves-trump-right-cnn-wrong/ James Comey Testimony Proves Trump Right, CNN Wrong]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved June 9, 2017.</ref> respectively.

After several inaccuracies and flaws were found in a [[CNN]] article that attacked Trump and his allies over a Russia fund, CNN retracted the article.<ref>Boyle, Matthew (June 23, 2017). [http://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2017/06/23/very-fake-news-after-breitbart-investigation-cnn-retracts-conspiracy-theory-hit-piece-attacking-trump-associates-over-russian-fund/ Very Fake News: After Breitbart Investigation, CNN Retracts Conspiracy Theory Hit Piece Attacking Trump, Associates Over Russian Fund]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved June 24, 2017.</ref><ref>Boyle, Matthew (June 24, 2017). [http://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2017/06/24/cnn-under-fire-very-fake-news-network-hit-from-all-sides-as-breitbart-investigation-forces-rare-retraction/ CNN Under Fire: ‘Very Fake News’ Network Hit from All Sides as Breitbart Investigation Forces Rare Retraction]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved June 25, 2017.</ref> Three CNN employees resigned due to the resulting scandal.<ref>Boyle, Matthew (June 26, 2017). [http://www.breitbart.com/big-journalism/2017/06/26/three-employees-resign-from-cnn-amid-very-fake-news-scandal/ Three Employees Resign from CNN Amid Very Fake News Scandal]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved June 27, 2017.</ref><ref>Adams, Becket (June 26, 2017). [http://www.washingtonexaminer.com/three-cnn-staffers-quit-over-retracted-story/article/2627155 Three CNN staffers quit over retracted story]. ''Washington Examiner''. Retrieved June 27, 2017.</ref>

After several inaccuracies and flaws were found in a [[CNN]] article that attacked Trump and his allies over a Russia fund, CNN retracted the article.<ref>Boyle, Matthew (June 23, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2017/06/23/very-fake-news-after-breitbart-investigation-cnn-retracts-conspiracy-theory-hit-piece-attacking-trump-associates-over-russian-fund/ Very Fake News: After Breitbart Investigation, CNN Retracts Conspiracy Theory Hit Piece Attacking Trump, Associates Over Russian Fund]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved June 24, 2017.</ref><ref>Boyle, Matthew (June 24, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2017/06/24/cnn-under-fire-very-fake-news-network-hit-from-all-sides-as-breitbart-investigation-forces-rare-retraction/ CNN Under Fire: ‘Very Fake News’ Network Hit from All Sides as Breitbart Investigation Forces Rare Retraction]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved June 25, 2017.</ref> Three CNN employees resigned due to the resulting scandal.<ref>Boyle, Matthew (June 26, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/big-journalism/2017/06/26/three-employees-resign-from-cnn-amid-very-fake-news-scandal/ Three Employees Resign from CNN Amid Very Fake News Scandal]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved June 27, 2017.</ref><ref>Adams, Becket (June 26, 2017). [http://www.washingtonexaminer.com/three-cnn-staffers-quit-over-retracted-story/article/2627155 Three CNN staffers quit over retracted story]. ''Washington Examiner''. Retrieved June 27, 2017.</ref>

ABC News ran a banner headline claiming [[Paul Manafort]] pled guilty to five counts of [[manslaughter]].

ABC News ran a banner headline claiming [[Paul Manafort]] pled guilty to five counts of [[manslaughter]].

*Munro, Neil (August 30, 2018). [https://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2018/08/30/state-dept-slams-wapo-claim-texas-latinos-are-being-denied-passports/ State Dept. Slams WaPo Claim Texas Latinos Are Being Denied Passports]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved September 18, 2018.

*Munro, Neil (August 30, 2018). [https://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2018/08/30/state-dept-slams-wapo-claim-texas-latinos-are-being-denied-passports/ State Dept. Slams WaPo Claim Texas Latinos Are Being Denied Passports]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved September 18, 2018.

*Munro, Neil (September 17, 2018). [https://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2018/09/17/huffpo-whacks-washpo-for-claiming-trump-blocks-latino-passports/ Washington Post Busted for Fake News of Trump Admin ‘Denying Passports’ to Latinos]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved September 18, 2018.

*Munro, Neil (September 17, 2018). [https://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2018/09/17/huffpo-whacks-washpo-for-claiming-trump-blocks-latino-passports/ Washington Post Busted for Fake News of Trump Admin ‘Denying Passports’ to Latinos]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved September 18, 2018.

*Adams, Becket (September 17, 2018). [https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/opinion/the-washington-posts-scoop-on-trump-revoking-visas-at-the-border-it-was-a-pile-of-garbage The Washington Post's 'scoop' on Trump revoking visas at the border — it was a pile of garbage]. ''Washington Examiner''. Retrieved September 18, 2018.</ref><ref name="NYTWaPoFake">Stoltzfoos, Rachel (September 18, 2018). [http://thefederalist.com/2018/09/18/legacy-outlets-add-two-botched-hit-pieces-pile-stinky-reporting-trump/ Legacy Outlets Add Two More Botched Hit Pieces To A Pile Of Stinky Reporting On Trump]. ''The Federalist''. Retrieved September 18, 2018.</ref> and ''The New York Times'' falsely reported in September 2018 that UN Ambassador [[Nikki Haley]] spent $53,000 on curtains when they actually were approved during the Obama Administration.<ref name="NYTWaPoFake"/><ref>Multiple references:

*Adams, Becket (September 17, 2018). [https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/opinion/the-washington-posts-scoop-on-trump-revoking-visas-at-the-border-it-was-a-pile-of-garbage The Washington Post's 'scoop' on Trump revoking visas at the border — it was a pile of garbage]. ''Washington Examiner''. Retrieved September 18, 2018.</ref><ref name="NYTWaPoFake">Stoltzfoos, Rachel (September 18, 2018). [https://thefederalist.com/2018/09/18/legacy-outlets-add-two-botched-hit-pieces-pile-stinky-reporting-trump/ Legacy Outlets Add Two More Botched Hit Pieces To A Pile Of Stinky Reporting On Trump]. ''The Federalist''. Retrieved September 18, 2018.</ref> and ''The New York Times'' falsely reported in September 2018 that UN Ambassador [[Nikki Haley]] spent $53,000 on curtains when they actually were approved during the Obama Administration.<ref name="NYTWaPoFake"/><ref>Multiple references:

*Flood, Brian (September 14, 2018). [http://www.foxnews.com/entertainment/2018/09/14/new-york-times-admits-creating-unfair-impression-about-nikki-haleys-53g-curtains-that-were-okd-by-obama-administration.html New York Times admits creating 'unfair impression' about Nikki Haley's $53G curtains that were OK'd by Obama administration]. ''Fox News''. Retrieved September 18, 2018.

*Flood, Brian (September 14, 2018). [http://www.foxnews.com/entertainment/2018/09/14/new-york-times-admits-creating-unfair-impression-about-nikki-haleys-53g-curtains-that-were-okd-by-obama-administration.html New York Times admits creating 'unfair impression' about Nikki Haley's $53G curtains that were OK'd by Obama administration]. ''Fox News''. Retrieved September 18, 2018.

*Nolte, John (September 14, 2018). [https://www.breitbart.com/big-journalism/2018/09/14/new-york-times-spreads-fake-news-about-nikki-haleys-52701-curtains/ New York Times Spreads Fake News About Nikki Haley’s $52,701 Curtains]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved September 18, 2018.</ref>

*Nolte, John (September 14, 2018). [https://www.breitbart.com/big-journalism/2018/09/14/new-york-times-spreads-fake-news-about-nikki-haleys-52701-curtains/ New York Times Spreads Fake News About Nikki Haley’s $52,701 Curtains]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved September 18, 2018.</ref>

The election results prompted German Chancellor [[Angela Merkel]], who represents a, [[establishment]]-[[globalist]] political party, to caution against "fake news" circulated in [[Social media]]:{{cquote|Something has changed — as globalization has marched on, debate is taking place in a completely new media environment. Opinions aren’t formed the way they were 25 years ago ... Today we have fake sites, bots, trolls — things that regenerate themselves, reinforcing opinions with certain algorithms, and we have to learn to deal with them. I believe we should not underestimate what is happening in the context of the Internet and with digitalization; this is part of our reality ... We have regulations that allow for our press freedom, including the requirement for due diligence from journalists. Today we have many that experience a media that is based on very different foundations and is much less regulated.<ref name=Merkel/>}}

The election results prompted German Chancellor [[Angela Merkel]], who represents a, [[establishment]]-[[globalist]] political party, to caution against "fake news" circulated in [[Social media]]:{{cquote|Something has changed — as globalization has marched on, debate is taking place in a completely new media environment. Opinions aren’t formed the way they were 25 years ago ... Today we have fake sites, bots, trolls — things that regenerate themselves, reinforcing opinions with certain algorithms, and we have to learn to deal with them. I believe we should not underestimate what is happening in the context of the Internet and with digitalization; this is part of our reality ... We have regulations that allow for our press freedom, including the requirement for due diligence from journalists. Today we have many that experience a media that is based on very different foundations and is much less regulated.<ref name=Merkel/>}}

[[Facebook]] has also responded to the alleged problem by developing a system wherein readers can flag a post they find suspicious.  Once flagged the post will be reviewed by a [[mainstream media]] representative, who decides whether the news is "real" or "fake."<ref>http://www.wsj.com/articles/facebooks-fake-fix-for-fake-news-1481932361</ref>

[[Facebook]] has also responded to the alleged problem by developing a system wherein readers can flag a post they find suspicious.  Once flagged the post will be reviewed by a [[mainstream media]] representative, who decides whether the news is "real" or "fake."<ref>https://www.wsj.com/articles/facebooks-fake-fix-for-fake-news-1481932361</ref>

On January 14, 2016, the Snopes website, itself considered a fake news site by some experts, published its "Snopes’ Field Guide to Fake News Sites and Hoax Purveyors"<ref name=snopes>{{cite web|title=Snopes’ Field Guide to Fake News Sites and Hoax Purveyors|date=January 14, 2016|url=http://www.snopes.com/2016/01/14/fake-news-sites/|accessdate=April 4, 2017}}</ref>

On January 14, 2016, the Snopes website, itself considered a fake news site by some experts, published its "Snopes’ Field Guide to Fake News Sites and Hoax Purveyors"<ref name=snopes>{{cite web|title=Snopes’ Field Guide to Fake News Sites and Hoax Purveyors|date=January 14, 2016|url=http://www.snopes.com/2016/01/14/fake-news-sites/|accessdate=April 4, 2017}}</ref>

In 2018, the [[European Commission]] proposed the creation of an "independent fact-checking network" that would fight what it views as "fake news." However, this network, if created, would be funded by left-wing organizations connected to [[George Soros]].<ref>Tomlinson, Chris (April 28, 2018). [http://www.breitbart.com/london/2018/04/28/european-union-advocates-independent-fact-checkers-combat-fake-news/ European Union Advocates For Soros-Funded ‘Independent Fact Checkers’ to Combat ‘Fake News’]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved April 28, 2018.</ref>

In 2018, the [[European Commission]] proposed the creation of an "independent fact-checking network" that would fight what it views as "fake news." However, this network, if created, would be funded by left-wing organizations connected to [[George Soros]].<ref>Tomlinson, Chris (April 28, 2018). [https://www.breitbart.com/london/2018/04/28/european-union-advocates-independent-fact-checkers-combat-fake-news/ European Union Advocates For Soros-Funded ‘Independent Fact Checkers’ to Combat ‘Fake News’]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved April 28, 2018.</ref>

==Conservative responses==

==Conservative responses==

According to a 2017 Poynter Media Trust Survey, 44% of Americans believe the media creates "fake news" stories against Trump to make him look bad.<ref>Richardson, Bradford (December 28, 2017). [https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2017/dec/28/fake-news-half-all-americans-believe-media-make-an/ ‘Fake News’: Half of all Americans believe the media make up anti-Trump stories]. ''The Washington Times''. Retrieved December 29, 2017.</ref> A Monmouth University poll released in April 2018 found that 77% of Americans believe the mainstream media reports fake news.<ref>Multiple references:

According to a 2017 Poynter Media Trust Survey, 44% of Americans believe the media creates "fake news" stories against Trump to make him look bad.<ref>Richardson, Bradford (December 28, 2017). [https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2017/dec/28/fake-news-half-all-americans-believe-media-make-an/ ‘Fake News’: Half of all Americans believe the media make up anti-Trump stories]. ''The Washington Times''. Retrieved December 29, 2017.</ref> A Monmouth University poll released in April 2018 found that 77% of Americans believe the mainstream media reports fake news.<ref>Multiple references:

*Manchester, Julia (April 2, 2018). [http://thehill.com/homenews/media/381225-more-than-3-in-4-believe-traditional-media-outlets-report-fake-news-poll More than 3 in 4 believe traditional media reports ‘fake news’: poll]. ''The Hill''. Retrieved April 2, 2018.

*Manchester, Julia (April 2, 2018). [https://thehill.com/homenews/media/381225-more-than-3-in-4-believe-traditional-media-outlets-report-fake-news-poll More than 3 in 4 believe traditional media reports ‘fake news’: poll]. ''The Hill''. Retrieved April 2, 2018.

*Persons, Sally (April 2, 2018). [https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2018/apr/2/over-70-percent-of-americans-see-media-as-fake-new/ Over 70 percent of Americans see media as ‘fake news,’ a Monmouth University poll shows]. ''The Washington Times''. Retrieved April 2, 2018.

*Persons, Sally (April 2, 2018). [https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2018/apr/2/over-70-percent-of-americans-see-media-as-fake-new/ Over 70 percent of Americans see media as ‘fake news,’ a Monmouth University poll shows]. ''The Washington Times''. Retrieved April 2, 2018.

*Church, Nate (April 2, 2018). [http://www.breitbart.com/big-journalism/2018/04/02/poll-77-percent-believe-traditional-media-guilty-of-fake-news/ Poll: 77 Percent Believe Traditional Media Guilty of Fake News]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved April 2, 2018.

*Church, Nate (April 2, 2018). [https://www.breitbart.com/big-journalism/2018/04/02/poll-77-percent-believe-traditional-media-guilty-of-fake-news/ Poll: 77 Percent Believe Traditional Media Guilty of Fake News]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved April 2, 2018.

*Lima, Cristiano (April 2, 2018). [https://www.politico.com/story/2018/04/02/poll-fake-news-494421 Poll: 77 percent say major news outlets report 'fake news']. ''Politico''. Retrieved April 2, 2018.

*Lima, Cristiano (April 2, 2018). [https://www.politico.com/story/2018/04/02/poll-fake-news-494421 Poll: 77 percent say major news outlets report 'fake news']. ''Politico''. Retrieved April 2, 2018.

*Byas, Steve (April 4, 2018). [https://www.thenewamerican.com/usnews/item/28659-poll-public-believes-media-reports-fake-news-to-advance-their-own-agenda Poll: Public Convinced That Media Reports Fake News to Advance Their Own Agenda]. ''The New American''. Retrieved April 4, 2018.</ref>

*Byas, Steve (April 4, 2018). [https://www.thenewamerican.com/usnews/item/28659-poll-public-believes-media-reports-fake-news-to-advance-their-own-agenda Poll: Public Convinced That Media Reports Fake News to Advance Their Own Agenda]. ''The New American''. Retrieved April 4, 2018.</ref>

==Attempts at censorship==

==Attempts at censorship==

[[Melissa Zimdars]], a far-Left professor had compiled a list of supposedly "fake and misleading" news websites that was heavily promoted in the Mainstream Media,<ref>[http://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2016/11/breaking-media-list-fake-news-websites-includes-breitbart-infowars-zerohedge-twitchy-blaze/ BREAKING: Liberals Create List of "Fake" News Websites Including: Breitbart, Infowars, Zerohedge, Twitchy, The Blaze]</ref> including [[Breitbart]], [[Infowars]], Twitchy, [[The Blaze]], and Bizpac Review. Even liberals, such as Will Oremus on [[Slate.com]], criticized the list and the term itself for being far too broad, unfairly targeting numerous sites, and being an overreaction.<ref>Oremus, Will (December 6, 2016). [http://www.slate.com/articles/technology/technology/2016/12/stop_calling_everything_fake_news.html Stop Calling Everything “Fake News”]. ''Slate.com''. Retrieved December 8, 2016.</ref> Zimdars later removed her "Fake News" list, claiming she had been "harassed" and "doxed".<ref>[https://inews.co.uk/essentials/news/technology/melissa-zimdars-removes-fake-news-list-claiming-harassed-doxed/ Dr Melissa Zimdars removes fake news list and claims she was ‘harassed’]</ref>

[[Melissa Zimdars]], a far-Left professor had compiled a list of supposedly "fake and misleading" news websites that was heavily promoted in the Mainstream Media,<ref>[https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2016/11/breaking-media-list-fake-news-websites-includes-breitbart-infowars-zerohedge-twitchy-blaze/ BREAKING: Liberals Create List of "Fake" News Websites Including: Breitbart, Infowars, Zerohedge, Twitchy, The Blaze]</ref> including [[Breitbart]], [[Infowars]], Twitchy, [[The Blaze]], and Bizpac Review. Even liberals, such as Will Oremus on [[Slate.com]], criticized the list and the term itself for being far too broad, unfairly targeting numerous sites, and being an overreaction.<ref>Oremus, Will (December 6, 2016). [http://www.slate.com/articles/technology/technology/2016/12/stop_calling_everything_fake_news.html Stop Calling Everything “Fake News”]. ''Slate.com''. Retrieved December 8, 2016.</ref> Zimdars later removed her "Fake News" list, claiming she had been "harassed" and "doxed".<ref>[https://inews.co.uk/essentials/news/technology/melissa-zimdars-removes-fake-news-list-claiming-harassed-doxed/ Dr Melissa Zimdars removes fake news list and claims she was ‘harassed’]</ref>

A 2017 Yale University study found that flagging news stories as "fake news" is ineffective due to the general mistrust of the media by Americans that already exists.<ref>Church, Nate (September 12, 2017). [http://www.breitbart.com/tech/2017/09/12/study-flagging-stories-as-fake-news-ineffective-people-no-longer-trust-media/ Study: Flagging Stories as ‘Fake News’ Ineffective; People No Longer Trust Media]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved September 13, 2017.</ref>

A 2017 Yale University study found that flagging news stories as "fake news" is ineffective due to the general mistrust of the media by Americans that already exists.<ref>Church, Nate (September 12, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/tech/2017/09/12/study-flagging-stories-as-fake-news-ineffective-people-no-longer-trust-media/ Study: Flagging Stories as ‘Fake News’ Ineffective; People No Longer Trust Media]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved September 13, 2017.</ref>

==Hypocrisy==

==Hypocrisy==

*[https://www.forbes.com/sites/mikeperlis/2017/03/09/fake-news-its-just-so-un-civil/ Forbes: Fake News Is So Un-civil]

*[https://www.forbes.com/sites/mikeperlis/2017/03/09/fake-news-its-just-so-un-civil/ Forbes: Fake News Is So Un-civil]

*[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0jh8qDR9Zm4 Fake News], by Bill Whittle

*[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0jh8qDR9Zm4 Fake News], by Bill Whittle

*[http://www.breitbart.com/milo/2017/02/02/fake-news-cnn-ties-milo-to-white-nationalists-despite-explicit-rejection-of-racism/ FAKE NEWS: CNN Ties MILO to White Nationalists Despite Explicit Rejection of Racism] at Breitbart News Network

*[https://www.breitbart.com/milo/2017/02/02/fake-news-cnn-ties-milo-to-white-nationalists-despite-explicit-rejection-of-racism/ FAKE NEWS: CNN Ties MILO to White Nationalists Despite Explicit Rejection of Racism] at Breitbart News Network

*[http://www.fakehatecrimes.org/ Fakehatecrimes.org]. A database of reported instances of fake hate crimes.

*[http://www.fakehatecrimes.org/ Fakehatecrimes.org]. A database of reported instances of fake hate crimes.

*[http://www.snopes.com/2016/01/21/6-quick-ways-spot-fake-news/ 6 Quick Ways to Spot Fake News]

*[http://www.snopes.com/2016/01/21/6-quick-ways-spot-fake-news/ 6 Quick Ways to Spot Fake News]