US majority believes misinformation is increasing political extremism

New poll reflects significant concerns by both Republicans and Democrats about false information ahead of the midterms

Americans from across the political spectrum say misinformation is increasing political extremism and hate crimes, according to a new poll that reflects broad and significant concerns about false and misleading claims ahead of next month's midterm elections.

About three-quarters of US adults say misinformation is leading to more extreme political views and behaviors such as instances of violence based on race, religion or gender. That's according to the poll from the Pearson Institute and the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research.