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Back to To the Point

To the Point

The Birthers and the Anatomy of a False Accusation

Donald Trump is among those currently making the claim that Barack Obama is not a "natural born citizen," as the Constitution requires a President to be. Despite all evidence to the contrary, polls show that some percentage of Americans believe Obama was not born in Hawaii, but in another country.

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By Warren Olney • May 12, 2014 • 1 min read

Donald Trump is among those currently making the claim that Barack Obama is not a "natural born citizen," as the Constitution requires a President to be. Despite all evidence to the contrary, polls show that some percentage of Americans believe Obama was not born in Hawaii, but in another country. It turns out the contention was first made in 2004 by Illinois Democrats. But it's Republicans and some of their leaders who are repeating it today. We look at the history of a false report, why some people cling to it and its possible impact on next year's presidential campaign.

  • https://images.ctfassets.net/2658fe8gbo8o/AvYox6VuEgcxpd20Xo9d3/769bca4fbf97bf022190f4813812c1e2/new-default.jpg?h=250

    Warren Olney

    former KCRW broadcaster

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    Christian Bordal

    Managing Producer, Greater LA

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    Karen Radziner

    Managing Producer, To the Point & Which Way LA?

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    Ben Smith

    editor-in-chief of Semafor

  • KCRW placeholder

    Gary Langer

    Langer Research Associates and ABC News

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    Mark Fenster

    University of Florida

    NewsNationalPolitics
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