Politics & Government

Fake Pro-Trump News Exposed In Minnesota

False rumors spread like wildfire during President Donald Trump's visit to Minneapolis on Thursday.

False rumors spread like wildfire during President Donald Trump's visit to Minneapolis on Thursday.
False rumors spread like wildfire during President Donald Trump's visit to Minneapolis on Thursday. (Neal McNamara/Patch)

MINNEAPOLIS — Numerous rumors and fake news stories spread online during President Donald Trump's visit to Minneapolis Thursday. One of the more humorous ones — for anyone familiar with Minnesota's climate during the month of October — involved a cactus and desert background.

"There are lines extending OUTSIDE OF THE PARKING lot," tweeted "The Best American" account.

The hilarious attempt at promoting fake news was quickly debunked. The post included a photo of a long line, with a dry, sunny scene.

Find out what's happening in Southwest Minneapoliswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Thursday night's rally was held during a cold rain. There are also no downtown Minneapolis buildings in the photo.

And no, cacti aren't a common part of Minnesota's landscape.

Find out what's happening in Southwest Minneapoliswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The long lines tweet wasn't the only piece of fake news exposed Thursday night. One false rumor that spread like wildfire alleged Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey removed the portable toilets for event.

In reality, it was just a case of poor planning by the rally organizers.

A third rumor was spread with the help of the Minnesota Republican chairwoman.

"Mayor Jacob Frey stifles free speech and press again," Jennifer Carnahan said on Twitter. "The city of Minneapolis has banned tv cameras and media from interviewing rally goers waiting in the skyways for the rally."

Members of the press, from outlets including WCCO Radio and the Star Tribune, said Carnahan's claim was wrong.

Mayor Jacob Frey responded to the allegation as well, saying it isn't true:

Additionally, city of Minneapolis spokesman Casper Hill told KARE 11 the majority of the skyways in downtown are owned by businesses. The exceptions are the skyways connected to public buildings, such as a county building or city hall.

"No City government policy banning TV cameras and media from interviewing in the skyways," Hill told the station.

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