The right's new conspiracy theory - MS NOW
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When powerful political figures face legal consequences, conspiracy thinking kicks in — and this story is a textbook case of how motivated reasoning turns accountability into persecution narratives.
Motivated ReasoningConspiracy TheoryIn-Group BiasMoral Disengagement
Theory Briefing
- Republicans like Christie, McDonnell, and D'Souza each faced distinct legal charges, yet the right frames them all as political targeting.
- Motivated reasoning theory explains why partisans instinctively reject uncomfortable facts and construct coordinated victimhood narratives instead.
- The 'vast conspiracy' framing doubles as a political tool — rallying bases and delegitimizing institutions that enforce accountability.