An in-depth look at the science behind the test and what the results do — and don’t — show.
The Facts on Elizabeth Warren’s DNA Test
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.
Trump Wrong on Climate Change, Again
In two recent interviews, President Donald Trump said he is not convinced that climate change is due to human activity, and he suggested that any changes will reverse themselves — two ideas that lack scientific backing.
How Potent Is Methane?
Two federal agencies this month took steps that would allow the oil and gas industry to release more methane, a greenhouse gas, into the environment. Critics warned that methane is more potent than carbon dioxide at trapping the Earth’s heat, but some gave wildly divergent figures to describe how much more potent.
Trump Again Overblows Risks of Wind Power
In an Aug. 30 rally in Evansville, Indiana, President Donald Trump made three unsubstantiated claims about wind turbines, which he calls “windmills.”
Did the EPA Just Approve Use of Asbestos in the U.S.?
Q. Did the Environmental Protection Agency change its rules to allow companies to use asbestos in manufacturing?
A. No. Asbestos is already allowed in numerous products. A proposed EPA rule would prohibit the use of asbestos in certain products unless granted EPA approval.
Scientist Schools Congressmen on Climate
During a recent hearing on the role of innovation in addressing climate change, several Republicans made faulty claims about the climate, past and present.
Debate Over EPA’s ‘Transparency’ Rule
The EPA proposed a rule to only use scientific studies with “publicly available” data when it develops regulations. This has sparked a debate in Congress on whether the proposal would prevent the EPA from considering studies that analyze private health information.
Did the Polio Vaccine Cause Cancer?
Q: Did people develop cancer because of the polio vaccine?
A: There are no known cases, and it’s very unlikely. In the 1950s and 1960s, people did receive polio vaccines contaminated with a virus that causes cancer in rodents. But research suggests this virus doesn’t cause cancer in humans.
Pruitt’s Tall Tale on Toxic Cleanups
In recent interviews, Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Scott Pruitt made two false claims about his agency’s record on removing toxic sites from the Superfund National Priorities List.
SciCheck Featured on Undark’s Podcast
SciCheck writer Vanessa Schipani recently appeared on Undark magazine’s podcast to discuss her recent article on the effect of media violence on children.