FactCheck.org’s SciCheck writer, Vanessa Schipani, spoke with WHYY radio host Dave Heller about topics she has covered in recent articles.
SciCheck Speaks with WHYY
SciCheck
FactCheck.org’s SciCheck feature focuses exclusively on false and misleading scientific claims that are made by partisans to influence public policy. It was launched in January 2015 with a grant from the Stanton Foundation. The foundation was founded by the late Frank Stanton, president of CBS for 25 years, from 1946 to 1971.
Debate Over Gay Blood Donations
Days after the mass shooting at a gay nightclub in Orlando, House members and the White House made seemingly contradictory claims concerning the Federal Drug Administration’s blood donation policy for gay and bisexual men. Both have scientific evidence to back up their claims.
Video: Trump’s Drought Claims
This week CNN’s Jake Tapper takes a look at Donald Trump’s misleading claims about California’s drought and water management issues.
Trump’s Dubious Drought Claims
Donald Trump suggests “there is no drought” in California because the state has “plenty of water.” He promises “to start opening up the water,” and he says he’ll “get it done quick.” But there is a drought, and we explain why there is no “quick” solution.
Trump’s Hot Air on Wind Energy
Trump said wind farms in the U.S. “kill more than 1 million birds a year.” Reliable data are scarce, but current estimates range from 20,000 to 573,000 bird deaths per year. Trump also falsely claimed shooting an eagle leads to five years in prison.
All Wet on Water Quality Data
During a recent congressional hearing, Rep. Steve King of Iowa underestimated what scientists know about the relationship between farming practices and water quality.
Trump on Hairspray and Ozone
For at least five years, Donald Trump has been making false claims about hairspray and its impact on the ozone layer.
What Zika Means for Americans
During floor addresses urging Congress to act on President Obama’s $1.9 billion request for emergency funds to combat the Zika virus, a number of senators made claims that were either misleading or lacked context.
Video: Clinton on Marijuana Research
This week, CNN’s Jake Tapper, with the help of FactCheck.org, fact-checks Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton’s claim that “you can’t do any research about” marijuana because it’s a Schedule I drug. That’s false.
False Claims About Flint Water
A Michigan health official told Congress that his department’s “initial analysis” showed blood lead levels in Flint children in the summer of 2014 were “within range of years before.” That’s false.