Social Media Backlash
Snopes, the well-known fact-checking website, faced intense criticism on Friday after publishing an initial fact check regarding a photo of President Biden wearing a hard hat backwards. The fact check claimed that the photo was genuine and that the hat was actually facing forward. However, social media users vehemently disagreed, arguing that hard hats universally have the tightening strap on the back.
Reversal of the Fact Check
After facing a storm of criticism on social media, Snopes decided to reevaluate their fact check. In a subsequent update, they reversed their initial determination. Snopes acknowledged the prevailing counter-argument that if the hat’s owner purposely configures it with the bill and tightening knob at the back, wearing it with the bill facing forward is, practically speaking, wearing it backwards. Therefore, despite their initial claim, Snopes stated that, in the photo in question, the hat was indeed worn backwards.
Other Photos Tell a Different Story
Interestingly, other pictures of Biden’s visit to Wisconsin showed him wearing the hard hat properly, with the tightening strap at the rear. This stark contrast further fueled the controversy surrounding the initial fact check.
Snopes’ Note of Appreciation
Snopes concluded their update by expressing gratitude to all those who brought attention to the correction. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of thorough fact-checking and the role of public engagement in ensuring accuracy.