SEEDS OF DISTRUST
Seeds of Distrust: This series examining powerful individuals and organizations working to undermine democracy is a collaboration between reporters and editors at the Arizona Center for Investigative Reporting, Lighthouse Reports, palabra, Puente News Collaborative, and the Texas Observer.
Border911: The misinformation network profiting off the false invasion narrative
Border 911: A network of dark money and charity organizations led by former intelligence officers and ex-feds has been spreading propaganda, laying the groundwork for presidential election challenges–and profiting from border disinformation.
A lawman’s change of heart
Iconic Texas Sheriff Arvin West was a leading voice against migrants crossing the U.S.-Mexico border. He pushed strict measures favored by former President Donald Trump. But West says his perspective is aligned with what he sees as the reality of the border, his weariness of divisive politics, and the wishes of neighbors who’ve voted him into office.
The Border Propagandist
Jaeson Jones, a confidante of incoming federal border czar Tom Homan, is helping lay the groundwork for mass deportations and conflict with Mexico.
Arizona Center for Investigative Reporting: Brandon Quester & Maria Polletta
Lighthouse Reports: Melissa del Bosque, Jack Sapoch, Monica Camacho, Charlotte Alfred, Justin Casimir Braun, Daniel Howden, Ariadne Papagapitos
Palabra: Valeria Fernandez, Joshua Phillips, Yunuen Bonaparte
Puente News Collaborative: Alfredo Corchado
Texas Observer: Lise Olsen, Gus Bova, Francesca D’Annunzio, Ivan Flores