The only rational position that fits the observables is defaulting to the assumption that everything one sees in the “news” that one can’t personally verify is

The only rational position that fits the observables is defaulting to the assumption that everything one sees in the “news” that one can’t personally verify is misinformation to some greater or lesser extent. This means that, for instance, I generally believe that local weather and traffic reports are accurate. Sadly, the Gell-Man amnesia effect means that most people will continue to believe whatever nonsense it is that they’re currently being told.