Q & A

Normally, I wouldn't be writing to you about a delusional conspiracy theory that got started in the darkest corners of the internet. But after Tuesday's primary, it's hard to ignore that I'm running against a QAnon believer...

You may have heard about QAnon. It's a far-right conspiracy theory which has been labeled a domestic terrorism threat by FBI field offices. Its followers have been described as a "virtual cult." And now, it's moved out of the shadows of the internet and onto our ballots – my opponent is one of 21 candidates nationwide who have shown support for QAnon.

Believers claim COVID-19 is a hoax and think that Donald Trump is sending out secret signals to tell them that the world is run by satan-worshiping pedophiles who are conspiring against him (and no, I'm not making this up). QAnon has expanded to include virtually every conspiracy theory under the sun -- all while seeking to discredit anyone who opposes the Trump.

But this shouldn't be dismissed as just another wacky conspiracy theory. These extremist ideas are radicalizing supporters and encourging them to commit acts of violence like attempting to assassinate political leaders and shoot up resturaunts because of anonymous social media posts.

In an era of disinformation campaigns, radical right-wing terrorism, and one of the most critical elections of our lifetimes – we cannot afford to have conspiracy theorists at the helm of our government. We need to send a loud and clear signal that these kinds of violent ideas have absolutely no place in our democracy. Chip in today and keep QAnon out of Congress.

Jim