This article challenges the notion that today’s political divide is simply about Democrats versus Republicans or right versus wrong. Instead, it emphasizes that the real issue is distinguishing truth from lies. It explores several key issues—such as the economy, immigration, climate change, women’s rights, COVID-19, healthcare, the 2020 election, January 6, and gun control— where some Republican beliefs diverge from the facts. The piece encourages readers to consider the consequences of discovering that what they believed to be true might not be, urging a commitment to truth for the sake of our society’s future.

LAKE GENEVA, WI - It’s essential to step back from the idea that our divisions are just about Democrats versus Republicans or even right versus wrong. The real issue at hand is distinguishing truth from lies. In today’s political climate, there are several beliefs held by some Republicans about critical issues like the economy, immigration, climate change, women’s rights, COVID-19, healthcare, the 2020 election, January 6, and gun control that don’t align with the facts. Let’s examine some of these beliefs, the truth behind them, and consider how one might feel if they found out the things they believed were not true.

The Economy

Belief: Some Republicans believe that cutting taxes for the wealthy and corporations always leads to economic growth and benefits everyone.

Truth: While tax cuts can stimulate short-term economic growth, the long-term effects often increase income inequality and national debt without significantly benefiting the middle class or poor. Studies have shown that wealth does not necessarily "trickle down" to the rest of the population.

Immigration

Belief: Many believe that immigrants, particularly undocumented ones, take jobs away from Americans and significantly burden public resources.

Truth: Immigrants, including undocumented ones, contribute to the economy by filling essential jobs, paying taxes, and starting businesses. Numerous studies indicate that immigrants are less likely to commit crimes than native-born citizens and that they contribute more in taxes than they consume in public services.

Climate Change

Belief: Some Republicans assert that climate change is either a hoax or not significantly influenced by human activities.

Truth: The overwhelming consensus among scientists is that climate change is real, primarily caused by human activities like burning fossil fuels, and poses a severe threat to the planet. Ignoring this reality increases the risk of catastrophic environmental and economic consequences.

Women’s Rights

Belief: There's a belief that limiting access to abortion is about protecting life and doesn’t infringe on women’s rights.

Truth: Restricting access to abortion not only undermines women’s autonomy over their bodies but also disproportionately affects low-income women and women of color. It can lead to dangerous, unregulated procedures and worsens inequalities in healthcare.

COVID-19

Belief: Some believe that COVID-19 was either overblown or that vaccines and masks were unnecessary and ineffective.

Truth: COVID-19 was a deadly pandemic that claimed millions of lives worldwide. Vaccines and masks were critical in reducing the spread of the virus and saving lives. Ignoring or downplaying the seriousness of the virus contributed to unnecessary illness and death.

Healthcare

Belief: Many Republicans hold that a free-market healthcare system without government intervention is the best way to ensure quality care.

Truth: The U.S. spends more on healthcare than any other country, yet has worse health outcomes compared to other developed nations with more government intervention. A market- driven approach can leave many without access to necessary care, particularly those with pre- existing conditions or those who cannot afford high premiums and deductibles.

The 2020 Election

Belief: A significant number of Republicans believe that the 2020 presidential election was stolen or rigged.

Truth: There is no credible evidence to support claims of widespread voter fraud in the 2020 election. Multiple audits, recounts, and court rulings, including by judges appointed by Republican presidents, confirmed that the election was fair and that Joe Biden won.

January 6

Belief: Some believe that the January 6th attack on the Capitol was either justified, not an insurrection, or was perpetrated by left-wing activists.

Truth: The January 6th attack was a violent attempt to overturn a democratic election, instigated by false claims of a stolen election. It was carried out by supporters of then- President Trump, and it resulted in deaths, injuries, and significant damage to one of the symbols of American democracy.

Gun Control

Belief: The belief persists that any form of gun control is a threat to the Second Amendment and that more guns make us safer.

Truth: Research consistently shows that more guns lead to more gun violence and that countries with stricter gun laws have far fewer gun deaths. Sensible gun control measures, like background checks and restrictions on certain types of firearms, do not infringe on Second Amendment rights but can save lives.

The Bigger Question

Now, let’s take a moment to consider: What if you found out that these things you’ve believed so strongly weren’t true? How would that make you feel? Would you feel betrayed by those who provided the misinformation? Would you be angry or confused?