Introduction

The 2020 U.S. Presidential Election remains a topic of contention, often framed through the lens of conspiracy theories and arguments.

Common Arguments and Conspiracy Theories

There is a recurring narrative that the election was stolen, fueled by a variety of beliefs ranging from outright lies to more nuanced but deeply held convictions. Here, we explore some of the most common arguments and conspiracy theories associated with the 2020 election.

Belief in Court Corruption

One of the primary arguments from those who believe the election was stolen revolves around court corruption. They assert that courts never properly reviewed the allegations of fraud, lending them a sense of legitimacy. This narrative thrives on the belief that the legal system is inherently biased and that justice was denied.

Perception of Election Official Corruption

Another prevailing argument is the inherent corruption within election officials. According to this view, these individuals tampered with the results to favor their preferred candidate. This belief is often anchored in a broader distrust of government and its institutions, suggesting a systemic incapability to conduct fair elections.

Media Manipulation and Fake News

The news media is a frequent target of these arguments. The belief extends that mainstream media is complicit in spreading misinformation and suppressing truth, thereby skewing public perception. The narrative often suggests that only Trump's claims can be trusted, reinforcing his narrative of being the only voice of authenticity.

Speculation on Voter Fraud

The most directly combative argument is the rampant voter fraud. This belief is fueled by a series of unsubstantiated claims about ineligible voters and fraudulent practices, backed by selective pieces of evidence. It lacks any substantial proof, yet persists due to the emotional and political impetus behind it.

Exposure and Deflating False Narratives

While these arguments have been adopted by a significant portion of the electorate, particularly those associated with conservative narratives, it is crucial to debunk and acknowledge their flaws. As a researcher, these topics demand a detailed examination to understand the underlying beliefs and the impact of these arguments on public perception.

Rhetorical Shifts: January 6, 2021, as a Turning Point

The January 6th event marked a pivotal moment. Proponents of these conspiracy theories viewed the riot as proof that the system could no longer be trusted. The rhetoric during and immediately after the events signaled a culmination of these beliefs and a rejection of the democratic process. The January 6th event itself was framed as a revolt against corruption and an illegitimate election.

Belief in Donald Trump as a Messiah

There is also a segment of the population that genuinely believes in Donald Trump as a messiah, his every word and action seen as infallible. This belief is bolstered by his consistent denunciation of the election results and his promise of a "new era." Such a belief system serves to reinforce the narrative of election fraud, with Trump's claims taking precedence over all other information sources.

Conclusion

The arguments and conspiracy theories surrounding the 2020 election reflect a complex interplay of distrust in governance, media, and institutions. These beliefs, while widely held, are fundamentally unsupported by evidence. They serve as a cautionary tale about the impact of misinformation on public opinion and democratic processes.

For researchers and digital content creators, understanding and addressing these arguments is crucial. Providing accurate, evidence-based information is not only ethical but also necessary to promote informed citizenship and a healthy democracy.