Trumpism has fostered an environment where basic facts are increasingly rejected by some of its adherents.

Some Trump officials seem surprised that many Americans’ reaction to the shooting is that it must be fake or part of a government conspiracy. Trump himself has spent years spreading disinformation and lies. He’s helped create an atmosphere in which basic facts are rejected. Even his own nominees refuse to say publicly that he lost the 2020 election. Denying reality is a key part of Trumpism.

Some Trump officials seem surprised that many Americans’ reaction to the shooting is that it must be fake or part of a government conspiracy. Trump himself has spent years spreading disinformation and lies. He’s helped create an atmosphere in which basic facts are rejected. Even his own nominees refuse to say publicly that he lost the 2020 election. Denying reality is a key part of Trumpism.