A partnership between the Hauenstein Center for
Presidential Studies, WGVU and the Padnos/Sarosik Center for
Discourse has developed a website designed to combat misinformation
during this election season.
The new website — The
People’s Guide — was unveiled June 27 prior to the first of a series
of scheduled debates between President Joe Biden and former
president and presumed 2024 Republican presidential candidate Donald
Trump. The site contains interviews, videos and links to content
aimed at helping the electorate make informative decisions on topics
and candidates, said Megan Rydecki, director of the Hauenstein Center.
Megan Rydecki, director of the Hauenstein Center
Image credit - Amanda Pitts
“What we're really hoping with the website is to
provide a resource so that voters here in Michigan and beyond can
feel good about their participation, about their engagement and
about living their lives from now until Election Day,” Rydecki said.
“We know that the landscape is much trickier than it's
ever been, especially with the rise of misinformation. We have
already found some great resources analyzing articles and
information, trying to figure out whether or not it's true.”
Rydecki said that the site’s topics will include how
and where to gather helpful information, how to engage in civil
discourse and tips for assessing political debates.
Rydecki said the site’s content will include interviews
with GVSU experts for their insights and strategies on identifying
misinformation, as well as experts from around the country,
including Barbara McQuade, professor from practice at the University
of Michigan Law School and author of “Attack from Within: How Disinformation Is
Sabotaging America.”
“We're hoping to be very responsive to individuals who
engage because this is really about voters in our communities, how
we can best serve them and make sure we get them the information and
resources that they need,” she said. “What we're trying to do is
package it nicely and in a captivating way, so people have a
one-stop shop to find it and engage.”
Phil Lane, WGVU’s director of content, said voters can
expect the website to be updated continuously with new content to
help them find trusted sources on issues and candidates.
“WGVU is excited about providing vetted resources to
help the community navigate the election season with confidence,”
Lane said. “We hope that guide will be a trusted resource as people
educate themselves on how to vote.”
