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Here are a couple of TikTok accounts focused on U.S. politics/news that many young viewers consider relatively trustworthy — along with some caveats. It’s important to remember that no account is PERFECT, especially on a platform like TikTok where algorithm-bias, brevity, and sensational formats pose challenges. Pew Research Center +2 Pew Research Center +2 1. V Spehar (TikTok handle: @underthedesknews) 6 Why they’re worth following: Spehar is a journalist-type creator who built their brand around explaining current events in short TikTok clips, often in a distinctive “under the desk” format. Advocate.com +1 Their “About” material emphasizes making news more approachable and human, which helps in assessing sources. underthedesknews.substack.com The account is widely cited as an example of a “news influencer” on TikTok that aimed for credible coverage rather than pure partisanship or sensationalism. Unicepta +1 Caveats: “Short-form” means there’s less depth than traditional journalism. It’s good for quick updates, but not necessarily full context. As with any influencer, you’ll want to cross-check big claims with original sources. 2. Aaron Parnas (TikTok handle: @aaronparnas1) 6 Why they’re worth following: Parnas is a lawyer-turned-news/influencer creator whose TikTok content focuses on U.S. politics, legal issues, and current events. Fast Company +1 He highlights his sourcing and attempts to bring legal/political topics into accessible frames for younger audiences. Caveats: He is more overtly political and may lean toward a particular viewpoint. That doesn’t make the information false, but you should approach it with awareness of perspective. Some critiques point out that influencers in this space may blur lines between commentary and reporting. Always useful to double-check. 🧐 Some Tips for Evaluating Trustworthiness on TikTok News Accounts Check whether the creator links to sources or cites credible outlets (e.g., original documents, recognized journalism). Assess whether the account regularly corrects or updates when errors occur. Consider how much “context” vs. “headline” content is provided. Short clips can oversimplify. Be aware of the platform environment: According to research, politics on TikTok can be quite polarized, and algorithms may push more extreme content. misinforeview.hks.harvard.edu +1 Use traditional news outlets or fact-checkers as supplements — especially for major claims. If you like, I can compile a larger list of TikTok accounts across the political spectrum (left, right, independent) with ratings on their trustworthiness, transparency, and sourcing practices. Would you like that?