Pizzagate Resurfaces: Epstein Files Reignite Debunked Conspiracy Theory

• The 'Pizzagate' conspiracy theory has resurfaced on social media following the release of Jeffrey Epstein's internal documents by the US Justice Department.
• The theory, which originated in 2016, falsely claims a child sex-trafficking ring operated out of Comet Ping Pong, a Washington pizzeria, linked to Democratic elites.
• References to 'pizza' in the Epstein files, such as 'headcount for pizza' and 'who wants pizza in Austin?', are being interpreted by some as coded language.
• Despite being repeatedly debunked and leading to real-life violence, the theory continues to spread, fueled by platforms like 4chan, Reddit, and now TikTok and X.
• Experts suggest such theories thrive in hyper-partisan environments, becoming political weapons and exploiting concerns about child safety and elite power.

Why It Matters: The release of Epstein files has reignited the debunked Pizzagate conspiracy, highlighting the persistence of misinformation.