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How conspiracy theories took hold of America
Pandemic disruption, and the government’s history of secrecy and deception helped propel characters like Donald Trump and Robert F. Kennedy Jr to prominence.
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Vaccine signage behind Democrat Senator Ron Wyden during a confirmation hearing for President Donald Trump’s nominee for health secretary.
PHOTO: BLOOMBERG
F.D. Flam
Millions of Americans believe that invisible entities are driving their country’s politics – shadowy deep-state actors that are allegedly controlling events, hiding toxins in their food and water, and peddling dangerous – even deadly – vaccines. These conspiracy theories have helped propel people like US President Donald Trump and politician Robert F. Kennedy Jr to prominence with their promises to provide transparency and save us from these threats.
Polling data indeed shows that 41 per cent of Americans believe the deep state exists; more than half – 54 per cent – suspect multiple actors were involved in the assassination of then US President John F. Kennedy in 1963.
