For four long years, a column was being written in the press, a persistent narrative that followed President Joe Biden through his term in office. Every time Biden faced tough questions or criticism, he would pause, take a deep breath, and yell back, branding the conversation as either "misinformation" or "disinformation." It became almost a hallmark of his response—deflecting any criticism by labeling it as part of some broader, nefarious campaign to distort the truth.
This strategy came full circle the day Biden signed his name to a critical decision: his reelection announcement for 2024. By deciding to run again, Biden’s reelection bid felt like the culmination of a column that had been continuously drafted, edited, and critiqued. His familiar refrain against “misinformation” became, in essence, the core message of his defense—any challenge to his policies or leadership was dismissed as an attack not based on facts but on falsehoods.
But the story didn’t end there.
When Biden endorsed his Vice President, Kamala Harris, as the Democratic candidate for 2024, the narrative shifted to her. Harris, since her nomination, has found herself unable or unwilling to offer straightforward answers to critical questions—questions that every Presidential candidate must face. Whether it was about the economy, healthcare, or foreign policy, her responses seemed evasive, as though her playbook, too, relied heavily on calling out "misinformation" rather than addressing the substance of the issue.
And now, with the country facing new challenges—a hurricane, perhaps, or other crises—the administration has found a convenient scapegoat. Any question raised about their performance, any criticism aimed at them, is thrown back with the familiar accusation: misinformation, disinformation. For the past four years, this deflection has been a constant, a way to shut down opposition and shift blame.
When mistakes were made, the administration appeared quick to find others to fault while simultaneously taking credit for anything perceived as a success. The narrative of accountability seemed inverted; the people were expected to shoulder the blame, to accept errors, while the administration held itself as the arbiter of truth, infallible in their own eyes.
In truth, it is not the responsibility of the American people to prove they are not spreading misinformation or disinformation. It is the job of those in power—those who serve in the highest offices—to give the correct information, to lead with transparency, and to ensure that the people they govern have access to accurate, timely, and honest answers. The burden of proof does not lie with the citizens; it lies with the government.
But sadly, from this administration, clarity has been hard to come by. The lack of straightforward communication and accountability leaves many feeling disillusioned. And as the 2024 campaign ramps up, it’s clear that the blame for the country's shortcomings is expected to fall on everyone but those who lead it. The mistakes, the missteps—they seem to be someone else’s problem. Yet, in the end, it is the people who bear the consequences.
As the election draws closer, one can only wonder: will the cycle of misinformation and deflection finally end? Or will it continue to shape the political landscape for another four years?
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