Fact Check: Did CNN Only Live Stream One Full Trump Rally in 2024?
What We Know
The claim that CNN only live streamed one Trump rally in 2024 is circulating widely, particularly in the context of the July 13 rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, which was marked by an assassination attempt on Trump. Proponents of the claim argue that CNN's choice to cover this specific rally indicates a deliberate decision to focus on it, suggesting that it was the only rally they covered all year (source-3). However, CNN has provided live coverage of multiple Trump rallies throughout 2024, including significant events leading up to the Republican National Convention (source-6).
On July 13, 2024, CNN did indeed live stream the rally where the assassination attempt occurred, which led to extensive coverage of the incident and its aftermath (source-2). Additionally, CNN's political analysts promoted the rally on social media, confirming that it was part of their live coverage strategy (source-3).
Analysis
The assertion that CNN only live streamed one Trump rally in 2024 lacks substantiation. Several credible sources indicate that CNN has aired multiple Trump rallies this year. For instance, CNN provided live coverage of Trump's rally in Butler, PA, but they also covered other rallies, including events in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and New York City (source-4, source-7).
The claim appears to stem from a misinterpretation or selective reporting of CNN's coverage, possibly fueled by the sensational nature of the assassination attempt. While it is true that the Butler rally received heightened attention due to the violent incident, this does not negate the fact that CNN has covered other Trump rallies throughout the year (source-6).
In evaluating the reliability of the sources, CNN is a well-established news organization with a long history of covering political events, including rallies. The claims made by social media users and less formal platforms lack the rigorous fact-checking and editorial standards that reputable news organizations maintain, making them less reliable.
Conclusion
Verdict: False. The claim that CNN only live streamed one full Trump rally in 2024 is incorrect. CNN has covered multiple Trump rallies throughout the year, including the notable Butler rally on July 13, which was marked by an assassination attempt. The assertion appears to be based on selective reporting and misinformation rather than factual evidence.
Sources
- CNN Trump rally shooting live coverage July 13, 2024
- July 13, 2024, coverage of the Trump assassination attempt
- FACT-CHECK: Did CNN Only Livestream One Trump Rally All Year ...
- October 27, 2024, presidential campaign news
- Trump appeared to be heckled at his California rally. Hear ...
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- Trump speaks at first rally since assassination attempt
- CNN Live