The article discusses the growing threat of disinformation campaigns targeting local governments. It highlights how bad actors exploit the public’s trust in local officials and spread false narratives to sow discord and undermine democratic processes. Key points include: 1) Local governments are vulnerable due to limited resources and lack of preparedness against disinformation. 2) Disinformation tactics like doctored videos, conspiracy theories, and coordinated harassment aim to discredit officials and disrupt decision-making. 3) The consequences can be severe, leading to public distrust, policy paralysis, and even violence. 4) Recommendations include improving digital literacy, establishing response protocols, and fostering partnerships with tech companies and fact-checkers. 5) Ultimately, local governments must prioritize resilience against disinformation to protect democratic institutions and public trust.
Source: https://time.com/7020151/local-government-disinformation-essay/