Disinformation Crisis Grips America, Paralleling Major Societal Issues: New Report Reveals Disturbing Trends
Washington, D.C. – A groundbreaking new study reveals the alarming pervasiveness of disinformation in American society, with a staggering 70% of respondents ranking it as a major problem on par with critical issues such as illegal drug use, hunger/poverty, and excessive federal spending. The 5th edition of the Disinformation in Society Report, a collaborative effort between the Institute for Public Relations (IPR) and market research firm Leger, surveyed 2,000 U.S. adults to gauge public perception of false and misleading information, identify responsible parties, and explore potential solutions. The findings paint a stark picture of a nation grappling with an information crisis, highlighting a concerning trend of eroding trust in traditional institutions and a growing reliance on personalized information bubbles.
The report underscores a paradox in information consumption: While Americans express deep concerns about disinformation, they simultaneously exhibit a strong preference for news that aligns with their pre-existing beliefs. A significant 59% of respondents admitted to favoring information that confirms their perspectives, a phenomenon that contributes to the perpetuation of echo chambers and hinders productive discourse. This tendency raises critical questions about the efficacy of fact-checking and media literacy initiatives, as individuals may be predisposed to dismiss information that challenges their worldview.
Compounding the issue is the identification of major societal institutions as key culprits in the spread of disinformation. Facebook topped the list, with 74% of respondents holding the social media giant accountable. Following closely behind were the U.S. federal government (72%) and political activist groups (71%). This erosion of trust in established sources has profound implications for democratic processes and public discourse, creating an environment where manipulation and misinformation can thrive.
Interestingly, the report reveals that Americans place the highest level of trust in sources within their immediate social circles. Family members (82%), individuals perceived as similar to themselves (79%), and friends (75%) emerged as the most trusted sources of information. This finding highlights the growing influence of personal networks in shaping individual perceptions and underscores the need for media literacy efforts that empower individuals to critically evaluate information shared within these trusted circles.
Dr. Tina McCorkindale, president and CEO of IPR, emphasized the role of political affiliation in shaping information consumption patterns. "Political affiliation is a determining factor for what sources people trust and consume, and Americans are looking for stronger accountability across social media platforms, companies, government, and other institutions," she stated. The report’s findings underscore the urgent need for a multi-faceted approach to combating disinformation, one that addresses both individual biases and systemic issues contributing to the spread of false and misleading information.
New Government Relations Firm, NexusOne Consulting, Launches in Washington, D.C., Focusing on Emerging Technologies
Washington, D.C. – NexusOne Consulting, a newly established government relations firm, has opened its doors across from the White House, aiming to bridge the gap between emerging technologies and policymaking. The firm, founded by lawyer Jeff Ifrah, will focus on representing clients in the rapidly evolving sectors of artificial intelligence, cryptocurrency, and social media, navigating the complex regulatory landscape and advocating for policies that foster innovation and responsible development.
Ifrah, a seasoned legal expert known for his work in online gaming and sports betting regulation, has assembled a team with extensive experience in government and policy. Joining him are Jim Trusty, a former Trump Administration policy advisor, and Ross Branson, a former senior legislative affairs official at the Commerce Department during the Trump presidency. This combination of legal and policy expertise positions NexusOne to effectively represent clients at the intersection of technology and government.
Bolstering the firm’s credentials is a high-profile advisory board, which includes prominent figures such as William Bennett, former Secretary of Education under President Reagan; Mary Fallin, former governor of Oklahoma; and Andrew Graves, founder of Copenhaver Capital. This diverse group brings a wealth of experience and connections across various sectors, further enhancing NexusOne’s ability to navigate the complexities of Washington, D.C.
"We created NexusOne to ensure that companies at the frontier of innovation have a trusted, connected voice in Washington," Ifrah explained. The firm’s launch comes at a critical juncture, as policymakers grapple with the challenges and opportunities presented by rapidly advancing technologies. NexusOne aims to play a key role in shaping the regulatory environment for these industries, advocating for policies that balance innovation with consumer protection and responsible development.
In Memoriam: Jason Smith, VP of Marketing Communications at HSMAI, Passes Away
The hospitality industry mourns the loss of Jason Smith, Vice President of Marketing Communications at the Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI), who passed away recently. Smith, a dedicated and respected figure in the industry, joined HSMAI in 2001 and played a pivotal role in shaping the organization’s digital presence, public relations, and social media strategy.
Throughout his tenure at HSMAI, Smith demonstrated a deep commitment to advancing the field of hospitality sales and marketing. He oversaw the organization’s online communications, media relations, and social media engagement, contributing significantly to HSMAI’s growth and influence within the industry. His expertise and dedication earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues and peers alike.
Prior to joining HSMAI, Smith honed his communications skills at Gannett, where he worked as a writer and editor. He also served as managing editor at Enterprise Communications, further developing his expertise in crafting compelling narratives and managing complex communication strategies. His diverse background in journalism and corporate communications provided him with a unique perspective that he brought to his work at HSMAI.
In honor of Smith’s contributions to the hospitality industry and his dedication to HSMAI, his family has requested that donations be made to World Central Kitchen in lieu of flowers. World Central Kitchen, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing meals in the wake of natural disasters and humanitarian crises, reflects Smith’s compassionate nature and his commitment to making a positive impact on the world.
