In the aftermath of fierce wildfires in Los Angeles last year, social media platforms were flooded with misleading information. These false claims, which spread quickly, ultimately had a tangible impact on how California crafted its policies.

As a prolonged government shutdown persists, many fear that Affordable Care Act subsidies may lapse. In Upper Chichester, Pennsylvania, one hair stylist facing a potential neck surgery worries she will have to delay her procedure if these crucial subsidies vanish.