Answer Details

1. Vitus “V” Spehar (TikTok handle: @underthedesknews) 6 Spehar is a journalist-creator who runs the TikTok account “Under The Desk News.” Wikipedia +1 They have built significant reach, especially among younger audiences, and have covered major political/civic issues in that format. The Wall Street Journal Why they’re relatively trustworthy: Strong journalistic background, transparent about style, and their approach is documented in media coverage for bridging younger-viewers + current events. Caveats: As with any influencer-style news format, the bite-sized format means nuance is often reduced and topics may be selected for virality as much as for depth. 2. The Washington Post (TikTok handle: @washingtonpost) 6 The Washington Post is a legacy news organisation with institutional journalistic standards, now producing content on TikTok. Jareen Imam Why they’re relatively trustworthy: Established newsroom, editorial checks, history of accountability. On TikTok they adapt for the platform but retain original news-reporting sources. Caveats: Because it’s institutional and adapted to short-form, some depth may be lost; also, platform algorithm dynamics may favour attention-driven formats rather than full context. 3. MeidasTouch Network (TikTok handle: @meidastouch) 5 MeidasTouch is a progressive media network that has a TikTok presence and covers U.S. politics and current events. Wikipedia Why they’re relatively trustworthy: They are transparent about their mission (“pro-democracy” journalism) and have a track record of original content. Caveats: The organization explicitly states a political orientation and is known to advocate. So while informational, it is not strictly neutral news: the content often has an opinion/advocacy slant. ✅ Best Practices for Using TikTok for Political News Always cross-check claims made in short-form videos with full-length reporting or fact-checkers. Check source transparency: Does the account cite documents, official data, link to full stories? Be mindful of algorithmic bias: Research indicates that TikTok’s recommendation engine may favour certain partisan content. arXiv +1 Use TikTok accounts as entry-points for learning or awareness, but not as your sole or final source for nuanced topics like policy, legislation, or international affairs. If you like, I can compile a longer list (10–15) of U.S. political news-oriented TikTok accounts, grouped by editorial stance (center, left, right, independent), with credibility assessments of each. Would you like that?