Summary

A national tool called the Electronic Registration Information Center helps states verify voter registrations, but a conspiracy theory spread online has inspired many state lawmakers to withdraw from the program. NPR’s Miles Parks speaks with Amna Nawaz about the potential damage to election safety. For a transcript of this story, click here . News wrap alternative : Check out recent segments from the NewsHour, and choose the story you’re most interested in watching! You can make a Google doc copy of discussion questions that work for any of the stories here.

Five Facts

1. When did Louisiana withdraw from ERIC?


2. According to journalist Miles Parks, why have local integrity groups popped up all over the country in recent years?


3. According to Parks, what false claims did far-right website Gateway Pundit make against ERIC?


4. Who played a large role in spreading anti-ERIC information and encouraging the public to lobby against ERIC?


5. According to Parks, what is the impact of states withdrawing from ERIC?

Focus Questions

What are some of the ways that media can be used to spread misinformation? How can we be more discerning consumers and use the media to learn more accurate information? News analysis : Why do you think this piece focuses so much on specific groups or individuals that spread misinformation? Alternative : See, Think, Wonder : What did you notice? What did the story make you think? What story would you want to find out more about? Where would you go to learn more?

For More

What students can do : What are some examples of misinformation that you've encountered? Find a particular statistic or news story and look into specific claims to investigate their validity. Not everything is as it seems! To learn more about navigating media and building your media literacy skills, explore our media literacy lesson plans .