Latino Political Pulse: Unique Information Environments and Misinformation

• In Event: The Diffusion of Misinformation

Abstract

In November 2023, a story emerged in Spanish-speaking social media, igniting a viral frenzy with the headline 'El Rio Nilo se tiñe de rojo,' translating to 'The Nile River turns red.' This sensational tale quickly captured the attention of social media users and various organizations, sparking discussions about its potential biblical significance. The photograph purportedly depicting the crimson Nile River was a snapshot of Iquique, a naturally red lagoon in Chile. This episode highlighted the power of virality within Latino networks, suggesting that information, whether accurate or not, is often group-specific, highlighting the unique information environments for Latinos in the U.S.

These distinctive information environments carry implications that set Latinos apart from other groups. The current research revolves around the role of social media platforms in shaping and augmenting these unique information ecosystems. Latinos' information landscapes differ due to their increased social media usage and the diversity of their social networks. Social media is pivotal because Latinos are more likely to rely on it for information and communication than other demographic groups. Social networks also matter significantly, as the type of information exchanged within Latino networks can vary from that circulating in other communities. Furthermore, the frequency of social media usage and the diversity of social networks are influenced by language proficiency and transnational ties. Latinos' bilingualism enables them to access information in multiple languages, while their transnational connections expose them to insights only readily available to those with such ties.

Consequently, these unique information environments may lead to distinct political considerations among Latinos, particularly those with extensive social ties and heightened social media engagement, setting them apart from other American groups. These factors contribute to Latinos’ knowledge and awareness that differ from other groups. We can anticipate that these unique information environments influence Latinos' understanding of international issues and their perspectives on U.S. government actions, especially concerning policies affecting both domestic and international populations. However, these distinctive information environments may also increase Latinos' vulnerability to misinformation.

This paper delves into the mechanisms behind this heightened vulnerability. It empirically tests the following hypotheses using original data, shedding light on the intricate interplay between information environments and knowledge and the challenges of misinformation within the Latino community.

Hypotheses:
(H1): Higher transnational ties are related to higher social media use.
(H2): Higher social media use is related to higher exposure to group-specific misinformation.

Methods and Findings:
Using American National Election Studies data and two original surveys, I show that Latinos' increased social media use and transnational networks lead to political interests and opinions unique to the group, influencing political participation and public opinion. More specifically, those who indicate higher transnational ties are also more likely to frequent social media sites and to have been exposed to group-specific misinformation. For some, higher social media use relates to higher odds of supporting Trump and colder feelings towards the Democratic party.

Author

• Francy Dayana Luna Diaz, University of Michigan