America Hijacked: How They Took Our Reality

Fox News. Talk radio. Sinclair. This episode breaks down how decades of right-wing media didn’t just divide America — it reprogrammed it. Let’s unpack it.

Welcome to this episode of Bigger Table, where host Abby Englewood delves into the powerful forces reshaping American society through media manipulation. We begin with an exploration of Fox News' impact on politics and culture, tracing its rise since 1996. Uncover how its strategy of repeated disinformation has not only dominated cable news but also influenced national sentiment, contributing to pivotal moments like the Iraq War and the 2020 election fallout.

Next, we examine Sinclair Broadcasting Group, illustrating how trusted local news can mask right-wing propaganda. By owning nearly 200 stations across the U.S., Sinclair reaches 40% of households, embedding their partisan narratives into the fabric of American news consumption, shifting perceptions on issues from misinformation about vaccines to critical race theory.

The conversation turns to the historical roots sown by talk radio pioneers like Rush Limbaugh, who carved a path for current talk radio giants. This segment dives into how radio broadcasts amplified anger and division, creating what is known today as the 'angry uncle effect', which reverberates in political discourse.

Discover the devastating effects of iconic disinformation moments perpetuated by Fox News, from the fabricated 'Bowling Green Massacre' to the baseless COVID vaccine fears. Each story illustrates how far-reaching these falsehoods have been in shaping public opinion and policy.

Finally, we discuss solutions on how to rebuild trust and truth in media by turning off biased outlets, supporting grounded journalism, and fostering media literacy. Join us as we explore steps towards a collective understanding and a mission to build a bigger table — a symbol of inclusivity and shared reality.