Misinformation and Free Speech
Description
Seventy percent of Americans view false information online as a major threat, with a 19-point partisan gap between Democrats and Republicans on this concern. Many Americans feel the country has overstepped in limiting free speech, creating tension between combating misinformation and protecting expression.
Centercratic Position:
Combat disinformation through media literacy education, platform transparency requirements, and foreign interference prevention. Protect First Amendment rights while holding platforms accountable for algorithmic amplification of harmful content. Support independent fact-checking without government censorship.
Republican Position:
Emphasize free speech protections and concerns about overreach in limiting speech, with lower concern about online misinformation as a threat.
Democratic Position:
Prioritize combating misinformation as a major threat (with 19-point partisan gap from Republicans), support platform regulation.
Applicable Principles
Our nine founding principles are the foundation for everything we propose. The principles highlighted below are the ones that speak most directly to this issue.
Principle 1
Safeguard Our Democratic System
Govern through compromise, not domination. Reject extreme tactics by special interests and defend the Constitution for everyone.
Principle 2
Limit Terms for Accountability
Impose term limits on public office to prevent
entrenchment and ensure representatives remain accountable to voters.
Principle 3
Protect Election Integrity
Guarantee transparent, fair, and nonpartisan elections. Uphold certified results and let voters decide outcomes through lawful processes.
Principle 4
One Law
for All
for All
The law applies equally to all.
Independent courts ensure fair process and protect basic rights.
Principle 5
Debate with Facts and Dignity
Conduct fact-based debates with respect. Acknowledge disagreements. Prohibit
personal attacks and bad-faith tactics.
Principle 6
Seek Unity Through Broad Support
Build policies that earn broad, lasting support.
Where consensus is out of reach, respect that
communities will find their own path.
Principle 7
Govern with a Balanced Approach
Reject both government overreach and government
absence. Provide essential services, measure
results, end what fails, and enforce fiscal discipline.
Principle 8
Defend
Our Freedom
Our Freedom
Unite with allies to deter
aggression and defend free
nations against military,
cyber, and economic threats.
Principle 9
Exemplify Global Leadership
Demonstrate American and democratic values through dignified, restrained, and humane leadership at home and abroad.
Everything we do flows from our nine core principles
Please visit Our Principles page to learn more.