Avoiding Sanewashing in Coverage of President Donald Trump

Thursday, 12 September 2024, 10:00

President Donald Trump has often utilized sanewashing, making radical statements seem mainstream. This article explores how to avoid falling into this trap. Discover techniques and practices that can help reporters eschew sanewashing while covering political discourse effectively. Learn how to enhance the integrity of reporting by addressing these challenges head-on.
Poynter
Avoiding Sanewashing in Coverage of President Donald Trump

Avoiding Sanewashing in Political Coverage

President Donald Trump has gained notoriety for using tactics of sanewashing—the act of packaging extreme rhetoric to make it more palatable. In an era where sensationalism often prevails, it’s vital for reporters to remain vigilant. Here are key strategies reporters can utilize:

  • Fact-Check Statements: Always verify the accuracy of claims made.
  • Provide Context: Offer background information that explains the implications of statements.
  • Avoid Normalization: Steer clear of framing radical views as typical behavior.

With these methods, journalists can maintain accountability in their reporting and ensure integrity.


This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.


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