We look back at some of the more questionable science-related claims from 2016 on topics such as climate change, Zika, GMOs, marijuana and the human mind.
FactChecking Science in 2016
Issues: climate change
Trump on Climate Change
President-elect Donald Trump told the New York Times he had an “open mind” about climate change, but he went on to repeat some of the same false and misleading claims that have been used by those who reject mainstream climate science.
Pence’s Stance on Climate Change
Tim Kaine has misrepresented Mike Pence’s current stance on climate change, making it a regular talking point in his campaign speeches.
The Candidates on Climate Change
We delve into the presidential candidates’ stances and claims on an issue that has received little attention in this campaign.
Video: FactChecking the First Debate
Several claims from the first presidential debate are highlighted in this video from FlackCheck.org, our sister site for political literacy.
FactChecking the First Debate
Trump, Clinton distort facts on jobs, taxes, trade and the Middle East.
Stein Over the Top on Sea Level Rise
Green party presidential candidate Jill Stein cherry-picked the findings of a disputed study when she claimed that global warming would cause sea levels to rise on average “not one yard but many yards” in as soon as 50 years.
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 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.
Palin ‘as Much a Scientist’ as Bill Nye?
Former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin falsely said she is “as much a scientist” as Bill Nye, best known for his children’s show, “Bill Nye the Science Guy.” Nye has multiple credentials that make him more of a scientist than Palin.