"BREAKING: Pete Buttigieg reveals that he is HIV-positive," the post read. This false claim amplified by MAGA pundits exemplifies the use of misinformation to target political figures.
Tim Miller, a gay contributor to The Bulwark, expressed concern about this disinformation in a post on X, sharing that a MAGA commentator had credulously spread the claim about Buttigieg, generating 500,000 views. Miller noted, "Pretty concerning view into MAGA info space pre-election," highlighting how disinformation is being weaponized.
Another reacted to the false information with sympathy, saying, "I make fun of him but it must be an absolutely horrible feeling to realize you have HIV heartbreaking. If he was my son I would be devastated." This quote underscores the emotional responses that misinformation can evoke.
Miller also identified another example of disinformation: an AI-generated image of Trump amid Hurricane Helene, pointing out how disinformation spreads even amongst close circles, questioning the reliability of media in the process.
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