Corrections matter – but so does examining how misinformation enters mainstream reporting.
The @hamiltonspectator originally reported that I had used a sock puppet in “some interviews” circulating online and linked to an out-of-context clip rather than the full video.
In reality, I appeared once at @unclosetedcomedy, a queer comedy show hosted by @RaeLockdust. Rae surprised me with the puppet to bring levity to serious audience questions. It was not part of my campaign strategy, and I did not use it in multiple interviews.
That context matters. The clip had already been circulated by far-right and anti-LGBTQ accounts to ridicule me and misrepresent how I communicate. When established media repeats that framing, it gives misinformation more credibility during an election. My presence in this race challenges some people’s ideas about who is “allowed” to lead, which makes accurate reporting especially important.
@Mac_Christie wrote the original article. I was not contacted to verify the information or given an opportunity to comment. Two independent fact-checks including one from @afpfactcheck were overlooked.
Apparently the error – according to The Spec – was made in the editing process by Matthew Van Dongen. A phone call could have prevented the error.
I want to thank Matthew Van Dongen, who listened when I emailed, replaced the misleading link, corrected the reference to multiple interviews and ensured that a formal correction was added.
Journalism shapes what voters notice, believe and remember. Accountability means correcting the record and examining how unverified narratives – especially those targeting marginalized candidates – enter election coverage.
I appreciate that The Spectator corrected the article. Verification should happen before publication, not only after harm is done.
A free press is essential to democracy. So is an accurate and accountable one.