Summary:
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Journalist Taylor Lorenz trends for exposing Chorus influencer program allegedly funded by progressive “dark money” group. Influencers received stipends for political content.
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Lorenz faces criticism for reporting on her own side, sparking debate on transparency in political messaging online. Some defend program.
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Controversy highlights need for accountability in digital political influence and funding, blurring line between personal opinion and propaganda.
Journalist Taylor Lorenz is trending after her WIRED report exposed Chorus, a secret influencer program allegedly funded by the Sixteen Thirty Fund, a progressive “dark money” group. Influencers reportedly received stipends of up to $8,000 per month in exchange for posting political content, with contracts allegedly requiring strict secrecy. Experts warn this could blur the line between personal opinion and paid political messaging, effectively turning some content into propaganda.
Instead of backlash targeting the influencers, Lorenz herself is facing criticism from the left for reporting on “her own side.” Some defend the program, while others suggest she should focus on how both parties operate, highlighting a broader debate over transparency in political messaging online. Despite the controversy, her reporting underscores the need for accountability in digital political influence and funding.
