Scripps News Launches Disinformation Desk to Combat Misinformation in 2024 Election and Beyond
ATLANTA – In a bold move to address the growing threat of disinformation, Scripps News has announced the formation of a dedicated Disinformation Desk. This six-person team, set to launch in June 2024, will investigate and expose sources of misinformation, analyze its dissemination, and provide the public with tools to distinguish fact from fiction. The initiative underscores the increasing importance of media literacy in an era saturated with manipulated information and the rise of sophisticated technologies like generative AI that can further blur the lines between truth and falsehood.
The Disinformation Desk will be led by Liz Landers, a seasoned journalist formerly with Vice News, who brings a wealth of experience in political reporting. Joining her are Kadia Tubman, focusing on the media’s role in spreading disinformation; Nick Refuerzo, a producer, editor, and graphic artist; Cameron Couvillion, handling research and editorial production; Linda Pattillo, deputy managing editor for investigations and global affairs; and Steve Turnham, Scripps Washington bureau chief and managing editor.
This team assembles a diverse skillset crucial for tackling the multifaceted nature of disinformation. Landers’ political expertise will be invaluable in navigating the turbulent waters of election coverage, while Tubman’s focus on media analysis will shed light on how news outlets, social media platforms, and other information channels contribute to the spread of false narratives. Refuerzo’s visual communication skills will play a key role in making complex information accessible to a broad audience, while Couvillion and Pattillo’s investigative backgrounds will ensure the desk’s work is rigorously researched and fact-checked. Turnham’s leadership will provide the team with essential guidance and support within the broader Scripps News organization.
The Disinformation Desk’s mandate extends beyond the political arena. While the 2024 election will undoubtedly be a central focus, the team will also investigate disinformation in areas such as economics, social issues, national security, and international affairs. A particular concern is the rapid development and deployment of generative AI, which has the potential to create highly convincing yet entirely fabricated content, further complicating the public’s ability to discern truth from falsehood. This technology presents a significant challenge to news organizations and the public alike, requiring vigilance and sophisticated detection methods.
Christina Hartman, vice president and head of Scripps News, emphasized the Desk’s commitment to transparency and rigorous journalistic standards. The team will not only expose disinformation but also explain its methodologies, fact-checking processes, and the "guardrails" in place to ensure the accuracy and integrity of their work. This transparency is crucial for building public trust and empowering audiences to critically evaluate information they encounter. Hartman views the Disinformation Desk as a vital investment in investigative journalism, recognizing its critical role in combating the erosion of trust caused by deepfake technology and other forms of manipulated media.
The launch of the Disinformation Desk aligns with Scripps’ broader commitment to news literacy. The company is a co-founder and co-presenter of National News Literacy Week, a partnership with the News Literacy Project. This nonpartisan initiative aims to equip individuals with the critical thinking skills necessary to navigate the complex information landscape and make informed decisions. By combining investigative reporting with educational outreach, Scripps aims to empower the public to become more discerning consumers of information, fostering a more informed and resilient citizenry.
The establishment of this dedicated team marks a significant step in the fight against disinformation. By proactively investigating and exposing misinformation campaigns, analyzing their impact, and educating the public about media literacy, the Disinformation Desk aims to strengthen the foundations of a healthy democracy. As the 2024 election approaches and the information environment becomes increasingly complex, this initiative promises to play a vital role in upholding the truth and fostering informed public discourse. The Desk’s multidisciplinary approach, incorporating investigative journalism, media analysis, visual communication, and a commitment to transparency, positions it to effectively address the multifaceted challenges posed by disinformation in the digital age.