From HuffPost · · 1m 20s
GOP operative admits spreading James Talarico hoax
GOP operative admits spreading false rumor about Texas senator's mental health claim.
In brief
GOP operative admits spreading false rumor about Texas senator's mental health claim. Rhein Amacher admitted spreading a false rumor about Texas Democratic Senate candidate James Talarico being treated for a mental health episode at a Cincinnati facility, claiming he had no evidence but offered a defense that drew…
James Talarico hoax
A GOP operative admitted spreading a false rumor about Texas Democratic Senate candidate James Talarico being treated for a mental health episode at a Cincinnati facility.
Rumors spread quickly
Rhein Amacher and Nick Sorter spread a rumor that Talarico had flown to the Lindner Center of Hope in Cincinnati, Ohio, to be treated for a mental health episode.
Talarico's health status
Talarico had taken nine days off the campaign trail to recover from the flu earlier this month.
Amacher's defense
Amacher claimed he contacted the medical facility after receiving a tip suggesting Talarico might be a patient there and reported what he was told.
Facility contradicts claim
The Lindner Center issued an official statement denying Talarico had ever been a patient at the facility.
Amacher's admission
Amacher admitted he had no independently verified evidence establishing Talarico was ever a patient at the facility.
Public reaction
John Graves criticized Amacher for spreading the rumor, saying he showed no care for truth and lost credibility.
Here's the gist
Rhein Amacher admitted spreading a false rumor about Texas Democratic Senate candidate James Talarico being treated for a mental health episode at a Cincinnati facility, claiming he had no evidence but offered a defense that drew mockery.
