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What one campaign rally in Michigan reveals about young voters right now
Attendees didn't fit neatly into any ideological box.
Sam Wilson banks nearly $23K in Q1, brings fundraising to $38K in Clearwater City Council bid
'This campaign is about bringing common sense back to Clearwater.'
What one campaign rally in Michigan reveals about young voters ahead of midterm elections
Jay Collins blames campaign woes on 'suppression polling'
He also says Byron Donalds isn't leading the race.
A GOP-aligned group is using Klan imagery to target Black voters
Polling and early voting so far suggest a close contest - prompting both sides of the redistricting campaign to pour in tens of millions of dollars.
What one campaign rally in Michigan reveals about young voters ahead of the midterm elections
Many young voters say politics isn’t delivering and they want candidates who offer something new, not just opposition
How IBM’s Masters campaign marks a shift in its sports strategy
At the Masters this week, IBM is showing off a shift in its sports sponsorship strategy.
On Social Media, Democratic Politicians Are Letting the F-Word Fly
In person, on social media and in campaign ads, Democratic politicians are swearing with glee. It is usually aimed at President Trump.
Cash expects a tough match in Italy
Bologna have become a familiar face for the Aston Villa faithful in recent times. Not only did the sides play eachother in the group stage of the Europa League earlier this season, but they also met in last season's Champions League campaign. Unai Emery's side came out on top on both occaisions, but Villa defender Matty Cash is not expecting an easy ride.
Hector Mujica: Why I'm taking the fight to Florida's 28th Congressional District
Senate bid ends as campaign shifts focus to winnable House race
Business Insider wins Digiday Video and TV award for Best Multi-Platform Video Campaign
Business Insider has been named the winner of Digiday's Best Multi-Platform Video Campaign for our work with the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Card.
Teddy bears to ticker tape: UVA Center for Politics opens new space
The expanded facility opens Friday with an exhibit of historical campaign memorabilia, from Washington to Trump.
Jacksonville Bold for 4.8.26: Learning from mistakes
Republicans regroup for Jacksonville Mayor race as campaign season intensifies.
Chris Collins puts more than $900K toward CD 19 campaign
The former New York Congressman put substantial skin the game.
Bruce Blakeman sues state board over denying him public campaign matching funds
The state Public Campaign Finance Board recently voted 4-3 on a resolution that disqualifies Blakeman from the program over a technicality.
Half of US States Are Now in Revolt Over Money in Politics
Idaho became the 25th state Wednesday to formally urge Congress to propose a constitutional amendment that allows federal and state legislative bodies to have greater authority over the flow of money in US politics.
Where's the business exodus from NYC Mamdani critics promised?
New data offers a promising sign for Zohran Mamdani, a democratic socialist who proposed various tax hikes during his New York City mayoral campaign.
After Emily Gregory nod, 22 more Palm Beach County leaders back David Jolly for Governor
Jolly’s campaign says the growing list of local endorsements reflects a broader coalition taking shape in a county seen as key to any statewide victory.
Swalwell campaign rejects 'outrageous' allegations of sexual misconduct as Dem activists issue viral warning
Rep. Eric Swalwell denied alleged misconduct claims from Cheyenne Hunt as California governor's race heats up ahead of the May primary election.
Sen. Elissa Slotkin sits down with Trump voters in Iowa while campaigning for Democrats
Michigan U.S. Sen. Elissa Slotkin is in Iowa to support Democratic congressional candidates and gather insights on how Democrats could win over President Donald Trump’s supporters
Swalwell campaign denies online claims that congressman behaved inappropriately with staffers
A spokesman for Rep. Eric Swalwell, a leading Democratic gubernatorial candidate, on Tuesday denounced online claims that the congressman had inappropriate relationships with young congressional staffers.
Ferguson’s failure to fill WA campaign oversight panel spurs recall bid
Two of the commission’s five seats have been vacant for months. Leaving them open for that long violates state law, according to the recall petition.
Yarbrough speaks with Lone Star Politics after opponent in TX-32 ends campaign for GOP nomination
After businessman and pastor Ryan Binkley ends his campaign for the GOP nomination in the 32nd Congressional District, Trump-endorsed Jace Yarbrough will take on the Democrat in the November election. The newly-drawn district was designed to favor Republicans by state lawmakers. Yarbrough takes questions from Lone Star Politics about his conservative views and his priorities if elected to office.
Michael Ferguson launches campaign to flip open coastal Broward House seat blue
The Lauderdale-by-the-Sea resident points to his legal career and local ties as central to his campaign.
Richard Lamondin pivots from congressional run to SD 38 challenge, drawing early party support
After months engaging voters in CD 27, Richard Lamondin is redirecting his campaign to a closely watched Miami-Dade Senate seat.
Democrats see gas prices as potent line of attack on campaign trail
Republicans won in 2024 by promising to cut the cost of living, but now high gas prices caused by the Iran war are frustrating voters.
AI design platform Picsart launches a creator monetization program
The program invites creators to create original content with Picsart tools for a specific campaign, share it on their social channels, and earn revenue based on how their audience engages.
World Health Day 2026
World Health Day 2026 promotes One Health and scientific collaboration. Join #TogetherForScience to advance global health research and science partnerships.
World Health Day 2026
World Health Day 2026 promotes One Health and scientific collaboration. Join #TogetherForScience to advance global health research and science partnerships.
World Health Day 2026: Together for health. Stand with science
On World Health Day 2026, celebrated on 7 April, WHO unites and mobilizes the world under the theme “Together for health. Stand with science.” celebrating the power of scientific collaboration to protect the health of people, animals, plants, and the planet. The year‑long campaign spotlights both scientific achievements and the multilateral cooperation needed to turn evidence into action.
San Diego Politics Show: CA-48 candidate Marni von Wilpert
The latest episode of the San Diego Politics welcomed Councilwoman Marni von Wilpert on to discuss her 48th Congressional District campaign.
San Antonio Express-News: Rep. Gonzales allegedly sent lewd texts to campaign staffer in 2020
Texas Republican Rep. Tony Gonzales is facing new allegations he sent a former campaign staffer lewd texts, just weeks after revelations of his affair with another former employee rocked and ultimately ended his reelection bid.
World Health Day 2026: PAHO/WHO calls for renewed commitment to science to drive better health for all
6 April 2026, Geneva / Washington, DC-- The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) call on people everywhere to renew their commitment to science as the foundation for better health, under the World Health Day 2026 theme: “Together for health. Stand with science.” The campaign marks the anniversary of WHO’s founding on 7 April, launching a year-long public health campaign.
Join our Twitch Tiny Takeover
We are about to launch a Tiny Takeover campaign on Twitch! This special event has something for everyone, whether you’re streaming or watching!
Public health takes center stage in US midterm campaigns: ‘It’s already been politicized’
Some candidates are making public health a central part of their midterm campaigns amid Trump’s war on science
CNN will host a California gubernatorial primary debate on May 5
CNN will host a California gubernatorial primary debate next month, a potential inflection point in a crowded campaign that Democrats are concerned could provide an opening for Republicans.
Windass lauded after 'top-class' strike
Phil Parkinson lauded the quality of Josh Windass after the forward's "top-class" goal in Wrexham's 2-2 draw with West Bromwich Albion. The 32-year-old netted his 12th goal of the campaign across all competitions as the Red Dragons came from 2-0 down to earn a point against the Baggies at The Hawthorns on Friday. "He's a player who can produce big moments and he's done that with a brilliant finish," Parkinson said of Windass.
Platner using trivia games, happy hours to power Senate campaign
Democrat Graham Platner is attracting support for his Maine Senate campaign from voters willing to forgive his past transgressions and embrace his populist message.
NASA astronauts on the way to the Moon capture Earth using iPhone 17 Pro Max
The next Apple Shot on iPhone ad campaign is writing itself: the four NASA astronauts currently on the Artemis ||...
Billionaire candidate for California governor catching heat for past business interests, wealth
Hedge fund founder Tom Steyer, among the top Democrats running for governor who has spent more than $100 million of his money on his campaign, faces questions about how he made his wealth.
Billionaire candidate for California governor catching heat for past business interests, wealth
Hedge fund founder Tom Steyer, among the top Democrats running for governor who has spent more than $100 million of his money on his campaign, faces questions about how he made his wealth.
Lori Berman, Fentrice Driskell lead flood of Dems endorsing Samuel Vilchez Santiago in HD 43
'This level of support shows just how serious and strong our campaign is.'
Warriors' Draymond Green reveals 'ideal' outcome for upcoming free agency
It remains to be seen what the future holds from Draymond Green beyond the current campaign, but the veteran forward has an idea of how he would like it to go. Green recently laid out his “ideal” scenario for his NBA future, which would entail him declining his $27 million player option for the 2026-27 season in favor of a new extension to close out his career in Golden State. “Rich [Paul] and I discussed it a couple months ago briefly,” Green said.
WHO calls for action: “Together for health. Stand with science.” to mark World Health Day
The World Health Organization (WHO) today calls on people everywhere to renew their commitment to working together and supporting science as the twin engines driving better health, under the World Health Day 2026 theme: “Together for health. Stand with science.” The campaign marks the anniversary of WHO’s founding on 7 April 1948, launching a year-long public health campaign.
WHO calls for action: “Together for health. Stand with science.” to mark World Health Day
The World Health Organization (WHO) today calls on people everywhere to renew their commitment to working together and supporting science as the twin engines driving better health, under the World Health Day 2026 theme: “Together for health. Stand with science.” The campaign marks the anniversary of WHO’s founding on 7 April 1948, launching a year-long public health campaign.
How Graham Platner is using trivia games and happy hours to help power his Maine Senate campaign
Democrat Graham Platner is attracting support for his Maine Senate campaign from voters willing to forgive his past transgressions and embrace his populist message
How Graham Platner is using trivia games and happy hours to help power his Maine Senate campaign
a p n military-and-defense tattoos-and-piercings politics elections u-s-news general-news washington-news | NewsRadio 1080 KRLD
How Graham Platner is using trivia games and happy hours to help power his Maine Senate campaign
Democrat Graham Platner is attracting support for his Maine Senate campaign from voters willing to forgive his past transgressions and embrace his populist message.
How Graham Platner is using trivia games and happy hours to help power his Maine Senate campaign
a p n military-and-defense tattoos-and-piercings politics elections u-s-news general-news washington-news | WBBM Newsradio 780 AM & 105.9 FM
Can Hawaiʻi Deliver All Of America From Citizens United?
A state Senate bill proposes a novel approach that one legal expert says would make the controversial national campaign finance law irrelevant in the islands.
Trump is trying to build a massive voter database. Election officials are afraid of what he’ll do with it
The Trump administration is intensifying its campaign against alleged voter fraud, taking new steps toward building a national citizen database and ramping up its hunt for suspected noncitizen voters — all under the banner of “election integrity.”
4 Monmouth, 3 Ocean County towns among New Jersey's most healthy towns
New Jersey's Mayors Wellness Campaign named 45 'Healthy Towns' for 2025, including seven in Monmouth and Ocean counties.
Orange County lawyer to fill Meyer’s empty N.C. Senate seat
Jonah Garson is a Chapel Hill native and part of the state Democratic Party leadership.
Bill Sniffin: Crazy Politics In Wyoming? Yes, I Have Had A Little Experience
Columnist Bill Sniffin writes, "I’ve watched statewide campaigns here for 56 years as a journalist and participated in two: my own run in 2002 and another…
Times Opinion: Big money in politics makes progress in Tennessee impossible
Take a look at governmental policy and the public's broad position on any given issue, and you'll see a glaring disconnect.
Can Kennedy lineage and hype over 'Love Story' help send JFK's grandson to Congress?
As a Kennedy scion, Jack Schlossberg had a lot of hype behind him when he launched his congressional campaign in New York City late last year
Julia Letlow faces more questions about past DEI comments in Louisiana Senate campaign
Can U.S. Sen. Bill Cassidy raise enough questions about U.S. Rep. Julia Letlow’s conservative credentials?
Colo Colo face Concepción to defend top spot
Colo Colo comes into the Liga de Primera in great form, where it will resume action this Sunday against Deportes Concepción. El Cacique will resume its campaign with five wins and two losses, which...
Cuba begins releasing prisoners under scrutiny of rights groups, U.S. govt
Cuba began releasing prisoners from its jails on Friday just hours after its communist-run government announced a sweeping amnesty coinciding with the most intense pressure campaign applied by the U.S.
Community Rallies for Penn State Health Children’s Week, April 6-12
April 6 marks the start of the eighth annual Penn State Health Children’s Week, a fundraising campaign benefiting the Children’s Miracle Network’s Patient Assistance Endowment at Penn State Health…
Trapanovski question mark as injury ends 'difficult campaign'
Dundee United manager Jim Goodwin has lamented the loss of "one of the best wingers in the league" for the rest of the season, leaving a question mark over the North Macedonia international's future at Tannadice. Goodwin confirmed Kristijan Trapanovski "underwent some surgery" on Wednesday on a knee injury the 26-year-old sustained in last month's Scottish Cup defeat away to Falkirk. Trapanovski, who has two caps for his country, is out of contract this summer having signed a two-year deal when arriving from Shkupi in his homeland in 2024.
Wealthy Donors Are Hiding Political Money in Secretive Nonprofits
Using philanthropy for campaign donations is illegal. But an exception for some nonprofits has allowed Democratic billionaires like Bill Gates and Michael Bloomberg to remain anonymous when they want to play politics.
Matsui, Vang clash over health care, campaign finance, Gaza in packed forum
Mai Vang said Rep. Doris Matsui does not support Medicare For All. Matsui said she’s not adverse to it.
Mass. Senate proposes $1M to revive cannabis health awareness effort
Funding would restart a long-mandated public education campaign, though it remains below requests and is not yet guaranteed.
Kat Abughazaleh expands political network, keeps campaign office open as mutual aid hub after primary loss
On Thursday, Abughazaleh announced in a video that she will help campaigns "integrate mutual aid and direct action into their races," and she plans to help races across the country, "especially in the Midwest."
Sydney Gruters raises $100K in first 5 hours on campaign trail
She also landed an endorsement from Rick Scott.
EXCLUSIVE: RI Political Shake-up — Ken Block Launches Campaign for…
Rhode Island's political landscape is getting a reset.
High Seas Treaty must stop the lobbyists and bring the science
Campaigners warn fishing industry lobbyists are attempting to rewrite the High Seas Treaty in their favour — with days left of UN ocean talks.
Trump says Iran ‘no longer a threat’ after 32 days — outlines next phase of US war
Trump declares Iran "no longer a threat" after a 32-day military campaign, claiming nuclear sites were destroyed by B-2 bombers and warning of more strikes.
Watch new MacBook Neo ads starring Little Finder Guy
Apple is doubling down on the adorable mini-Finder character it created for the MacBook Neo campaign. Watch the ads here.
Stephen Lewis, Leftist Canadian Politician and AIDS Activist, Dies at 88
Part of a political dynasty, he led Ontario’s main progressive party, became Canada’s U.N. ambassador and campaigned against the spread of AIDS in Africa.
The New Ideas Conundrum in Health Policy
In a new column, President and CEO Dr. Drew Altman writes about the "conundrum of health policy ideas" facing Democrats searching for new proposals because of competing, and complex, priorities: rebuilding Medicaid and the ACA after trillion-dollar cuts, reconstructing federal health agencies, and tackling underlying health care costs, when candidates want simple ideas they can campaign on and voters want their costs to come down.
Microsoft Warns of WhatsApp-Delivered VBS Malware Hijacking Windows via UAC Bypass
WhatsApp VBS campaign began February 2026, abusing AWS and UAC bypass to gain persistent remote access.
NC’s Thom Tillis drops the filter as he prepares to leave the Senate
Has Sen. Thom Tillis changed since bowing out of his reelection campaign? His fellow senators don’t think so.
Is e.l.f. Beauty (ELF) Turning Entertainment Marketing Into a Durable Brand Moat?
e.l.f. Beauty recently premiered “Vanity Vandals,” a true crime-inspired mockumentary from its e.l.f. Cosmetics brand at TCL Chinese Theatre, supported by limited-time product bundles and a community contest to deepen consumer engagement. The campaign underscores how e.l.f. is using entertainment-style content to reinforce its cultural relevance and strengthen its connection with highly engaged beauty fans. We’ll now examine how this entertainment-led community campaign could influence...
Bruce Blakeman denied public campaign matching funds in race for N.Y. governor
The state Public Campaign Finance Board on Tuesday voted 4-3 on a resolution that disqualifies Blakeman from the program over a technicality.
Geico plans to stake its claim in women’s sports, starting with March Madness
Geico CMO Arianna Orpello shares her plans to cement the brand in women's sports, starting with a March Madness campaign.
Politics in an Attention Economy | Nonprofit Quarterly | Civic News. Empowering Nonprofits. Advancing Justice.
Politicians and campaigns today must break through our algorithmic attention economy by using storytelling to connect with voters, draw in unlikely supporters, and help people imagine a better future.
Myth-busting virtual care’s most common misconceptions
For patients who've never tried virtual care, there can be a lot of misconceptions. Sanford answered some common questions to debunk myths.
Behind the scenes and in front of cameras, Hegseth serving as top cheerleader for military power in Iran war
In the immediate lead-up to the first bombs being dropped on Iran last month, President Donald Trump met with a small group of advisers to discuss options. He made it clear that he wanted to launch a military campaign alongside Israel, multiple sources familiar with the matter told CNN.
Democrats want to ‘weaponize the political system’ against their opponents: Former Trump campaign advisor
‘My View with Lara Trump’ host Lara Trump and former Trump campaign senior advisor Jason Miller discuss ‘No Kings’ anti-Trump protests across the U.S. on ‘The Bottom Line.’
Cardi B and Steph Curry earn Webby Award nominations, along with Sydney Sweeney's bathwater
This year’s Webby Award nominations highlight the internet’s wildest hits, from celebrity campaigns to strange viral products.
‘I’m not done’: Jon Maples launches new HD 87 bid, will retool strategy for November race
Maples promised a top-to-bottom campaign review, saying no question is off the table in fine-tuning his General Election strategy.
NHL, ESPN, TNT Sports and Sportsnet debut joint marketing creative ahead of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs
The NHL and its broadcast partners are bringing fans closer to the intensity of playoff hockey with a new marketing campaign.
May elections come at time of war on two fronts, Starmer says
At campaign launch, PM acknowledges concern over events in Ukraine and Iran as well as over rising cost of living
IGAPA Highlights Key Trends in Government Relations and Political Campaigns at Washington, D.C. Forum
The 11th International Government Relations (GR) & Political Campaigns Forum, organized by IGAPA (International Government Affairs Professional Association), a leading global network of public affairs professionals, convened policymakers, political strategists, consultants, and thought leaders from more than 10 countries to address pressing challenges in governance, elections, and public trust.
This week on The V: Faith, politics and unfinished business
Panel examines faith in campaigns, Tuberville lawsuit, IVF debate and legislative priorities as Alabama's legislative session nears its end.
Sensodyne India rolls out 'Know Your Dental Age' Campaign - An Oral Health Awareness initiative supported by Ministry of Health & Family Welfare and Indian Dental Association
Sensodyne, Haleon's leading oral care brand, is strengthening its commitment to better oral health in India with the launch of its 'Know Your Dental Age' initiative, placing the concept of Dental Age at the forefront of proactive care. India continues to face a significant oral health gap, with 9 in 10 people experiencing dental issues and most seeking treatment only when symptoms become severe. To drive early awareness and encourage preventive habits, Sensodyne has partnered with the Indian Den
New ad blitz shows how tariffs hurt small businesses
The campaign is targeting Atlanta, Chicago, Detroit, Nashville and Newark because they are located in states hit hardest by tariffs.
The most successful health campaign in modern history
How one number explains how we’re winning the 60-year war on smoking.
Trump officials cite white supremacists in bid to end birthright citizenship
The administration builds its arguments on an 1800s campaign, led in part by a Confederate officer, that scholars say was steeped in anti-Black and anti-Chinese racism.
Starmer to say Iran war means Labour’s values needed more than ever at local elections campaign launch
UK PM to chair meeting in Downing Street on how government responds to economic consequences of Iran war later on Monday
Marc Skinner: Man United’s thoughts on coach’s performance revealed
Manchester United Women’s season has begun to unravel somewhat.Historic runThe Red Devils have made history in their first ever Champions League campaign.They impressively won four matches out of si...
Who slept worst last night: James Vowles
More problems struck Williams at the Japanese Grand Prix, as its poor 2026 F1 campaign continues
Rahm Emanuel participates in Stand Up New Hampshire town hall at NH Institute of Politics
In a one-on-one interview with News 9, Emanuel said he wants to hear from as many Americans as possible before deciding whether to launch a campaign.
Navigating the social media minefield
Scientists and researchers seeking to announce promising findings, exchange ideas or contribute to policy discussions outside of academic circles may find social media an expedient tool.But increasingly, scientists and other professionals are discovering that online platforms can be a double-edged sword: while sharing their work and expertise is crucial for visibility and meeting funder expectations, it also exposes them to baseless criticism and even accusations of spreading false information."It is getting harder and harder for scientists, and researchers in general, to convey their findings without facing attacks on their legitimacy and accuracy of their research," says Valère Ndior, a professor of public law at the University of Western Brittany in Brest, France, who has spent more than a decade studying misinformation on social media. Researchers attempting to challenge deceptive online information may themselves be accused of political bias or not being objective in their research, he explains, adding that some scientists disengage because they feel overwhelmed and unable to sustain meaningful dialogue. "It is quite sad to see in some instances that researchers end up leaving social media altogether because they feel like the pressure is getting too intense or feel threatened," he says.Ndior, a past president of the Francophone Network of International Law, is also involved in European efforts to make science and research findings more accessible to the public. As an ambassador for the Science Comes to Town (SCTT) project, he has participated in recent discussions on public perceptions of science and online misinformation. The European Commission-funded initiative connects Brest and two other cities — Kiel in Germany and Split in Croatia — and aims to strengthen ties between communities, universities and research institutions to promote science awareness and cooperation across Europe.Coordinated campaigns around contentious topicsNdior draws a clear distinction between critical thinking and thoughtless criticism. Yet he sees online discussions being increasingly shaped by suspicious behaviour and coordinated information campaigns — including "raids" aimed at dominating discussions and "astroturfing," where small groups act as larger movements to sway debates. Tracking these patterns has become harder because some platforms have restricted data or charge for it, despite provisions of the European Union's Digital Securities Act aimed at ensuring researchers can have access to such data. According to Ndior, "platforms became more reluctant from the moment access to data became a legal requirement rather than a voluntary initiative."Unfounded claims and scepticism about science existed long before Internet chat groups. But the noticeable rise in online hostility has intensified around contentious topics, such as the coronavirus pandemic and climate change, alongside the weakening of gatekeepers to moderate content.For Ndior, dubious claims about pandemic countermeasures and vaccine safety highlighted the struggle between "balancing freedom of expression and the protection of public health and order." Efforts to remove social media content deemed false or risky for public health triggered accusations of censorship and the silencing of legitimate discussion, and in some cases, legal challenges.Concerns about attacks on the credibility of scientists and researchers have generated a flurry of academic papers in recent years and prompted professional communities to address ways to counter online attacks. Such unease extends to the generation that has grown up with digital media. Ndior points out that his students, some of whom research artificial intelligence regulation, hate speech, online surveillance and other controversial topics, hesitate to share their work or viewpoints online. "Many of them don't want to expose themselves too much because they don't feel ready to be faced with the backlash of other people criticising their research," he explains.Safer harbours for engagementLegal challenges against false or defamatory posts are not necessarily a solution — especially given the trans-jurisdictional nature of the Internet. Lawsuits also take time and money, and if they fail, can be counterproductive. Instead, Ndior advises scientists and researchers to be selective in how and where they communicate. Professional online platforms and moderated discussion spaces offer a better environment for engagement. He also highlights the value of more traditional formats, such as radio interviews and in-person discussions at schools, libraries and science fairs, which encourage dialogue with the public. "Personal contact makes a big difference," he says, while acknowledging that these approaches lack the global reach of social media.Ndior’s interest in digital law and online misinformation stems from his time as a doctoral student in international law in the early days of social media. He began analysing posts from governments and heads of state to determine if they could be considered official and thus used as evidence in litigation. His work attracted media attention and led to conference and speaking invitations. "This was not part of my plan," he says, "but this is what happens as a researcher — your interest is sparked by a certain event or phenomenon, and it suddenly becomes your focus."Ndior believes SCTT provides "a double benefit" for researchers, enabling them to connect with peers and interact with the public. "There is a wide community of people who are not in academia who are critical thinkers looking for opportunities to ask questions, to get information and contribute their ideas,” he says. "I really value that kind of feedback."Science|Business, which connects policymakers, academics and industry through its news reporting, analysis and events, is an SCTT partner.
Navigating the social media minefield
Scientists and researchers seeking to announce promising findings, exchange ideas or contribute to policy discussions outside of academic circles may find social media an expedient tool.But increasingly, scientists and other professionals are discovering that online platforms can be a double-edged sword: while sharing their work and expertise is crucial for visibility and meeting funder expectations, it also exposes them to baseless criticism and even accusations of spreading false information."It is getting harder and harder for scientists, and researchers in general, to convey their findings without facing attacks on their legitimacy and accuracy of their research," says Valère Ndior, a professor of public law at the University of Western Brittany in Brest, France, who has spent more than a decade studying misinformation on social media. Researchers attempting to challenge deceptive online information may themselves be accused of political bias or not being objective in their research, he explains, adding that some scientists disengage because they feel overwhelmed and unable to sustain meaningful dialogue. "It is quite sad to see in some instances that researchers end up leaving social media altogether because they feel like the pressure is getting too intense or feel threatened," he says.Ndior, a past president of the Francophone Network of International Law, is also involved in European efforts to make science and research findings more accessible to the public. As an ambassador for the Science Comes to Town (SCTT) project, he has participated in recent discussions on public perceptions of science and online misinformation. The European Commission-funded initiative connects Brest and two other cities — Kiel in Germany and Split in Croatia — and aims to strengthen ties between communities, universities and research institutions to promote science awareness and cooperation across Europe.Coordinated campaigns around contentious topicsNdior draws a clear distinction between critical thinking and thoughtless criticism. Yet he sees online discussions being increasingly shaped by suspicious behaviour and coordinated information campaigns — including "raids" aimed at dominating discussions and "astroturfing," where small groups act as larger movements to sway debates. Tracking these patterns has become harder because some platforms have restricted data or charge for it, despite provisions of the European Union's Digital Securities Act aimed at ensuring researchers can have access to such data. According to Ndior, "platforms became more reluctant from the moment access to data became a legal requirement rather than a voluntary initiative."Unfounded claims and scepticism about science existed long before Internet chat groups. But the noticeable rise in online hostility has intensified around contentious topics, such as the coronavirus pandemic and climate change, alongside the weakening of gatekeepers to moderate content.For Ndior, dubious claims about pandemic countermeasures and vaccine safety highlighted the struggle between "balancing freedom of expression and the protection of public health and order." Efforts to remove social media content deemed false or risky for public health triggered accusations of censorship and the silencing of legitimate discussion, and in some cases, legal challenges.Concerns about attacks on the credibility of scientists and researchers have generated a flurry of academic papers in recent years and prompted professional communities to address ways to counter online attacks. Such unease extends to the generation that has grown up with digital media. Ndior points out that his students, some of whom research artificial intelligence regulation, hate speech, online surveillance and other controversial topics, hesitate to share their work or viewpoints online. "Many of them don't want to expose themselves too much because they don't feel ready to be faced with the backlash of other people criticising their research," he explains.Safer harbours for engagementLegal challenges against false or defamatory posts are not necessarily a solution — especially given the trans-jurisdictional nature of the Internet. Lawsuits also take time and money, and if they fail, can be counterproductive. Instead, Ndior advises scientists and researchers to be selective in how and where they communicate. Professional online platforms and moderated discussion spaces offer a better environment for engagement. He also highlights the value of more traditional formats, such as radio interviews and in-person discussions at schools, libraries and science fairs, which encourage dialogue with the public. "Personal contact makes a big difference," he says, while acknowledging that these approaches lack the global reach of social media.Ndior’s interest in digital law and online misinformation stems from his time as a doctoral student in international law in the early days of social media. He began analysing posts from governments and heads of state to determine if they could be considered official and thus used as evidence in litigation. His work attracted media attention and led to conference and speaking invitations. "This was not part of my plan," he says, "but this is what happens as a researcher — your interest is sparked by a certain event or phenomenon, and it suddenly becomes your focus."Ndior believes SCTT provides "a double benefit" for researchers, enabling them to connect with peers and interact with the public. "There is a wide community of people who are not in academia who are critical thinkers looking for opportunities to ask questions, to get information and contribute their ideas,” he says. "I really value that kind of feedback."Science|Business, which connects policymakers, academics and industry through its news reporting, analysis and events, is an SCTT partner.
Ed Pope launches campaign to succeed Vern Buchanan in CD 16
The Navy veteran and long-time law enforcement officer said he's ready to serve in a new capacity.