Democratic presidential hopeful Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.'s embrace of conspiracy theories and famous last name have made him a guest in the contrarian podcast space. His bid has been boosted by the likes of Elon Musk and Steve Bannon.And the lead actor of a breakout Christian thriller — based on the dubious claims of an anti-sex trafficking organization — has spread a number of conspiracy theories as he's promoted the movie, which has been embraced and promoted by a host of establishment conservatives.Why are malignant conspiracies finding such purchase in the American public — and what does it say about the health of our democracy?This episode: political correspondent Susan Davis, senior political editor and correspondent Ron Elving, and disinformation correspondent Shanon Bond.The podcast is produced by Elena Moore and Casey Morell. Our editor is Eric McDaniel. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi. Unlock access to this and other bonus content by supporting The NPR Politics Podcast+. Sign up via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Connect:Email the show at [email protected] the NPR Politics Podcast Facebook Group.Subscribe to the NPR Politics Newsletter.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.