MBFC's Daily Vetted Fact Checks for 01/17/2026 (Weekend Edition)

Fact Check Search

Media Bias Fact Check selects and publishes fact checks from around the world. We only utilize fact-checkers that are either a signatory of the International Fact-Checking Network (IFCN) or have been verified as credible by MBFC. Further, we review each fact check for accuracy before publishing. We fact-check the fact-checkers and let you know their bias. When appropriate, we explain the rating and/or offer our own rating if we disagree with the fact-checker. (D. Van Zandt)

Claim Codes: Red = Fact Check on a Right Claim, Blue = Fact Check on a Left Claim, Black = Not Political/Conspiracy/Pseudoscience/Other

Fact Checker bias rating Codes: Red = Right-Leaning, Green = Least Biased, Blue = Left-Leaning, Black = Unrated by MBFC

BLATANT LIE	Claim via Social Media: “A letter sent to postal service employees about working during emergencies such as civil unrest is a sign that President Donald Trump will impose martial law.” PolitiFact rating: False (The Jan. 5 U.S. Postal Service letter simply provides routine guidance for employees working during emergencies such as epidemics, hurricanes, or civil unrest. Similar letters were issued multiple times in 2020, and the memo does not reference Trump, martial law, or any impending crisis.) No, USPS letter to employees about civil unrest is not a prediction of crisis or martial law
MISLEADING	Claim by Donald Trump (R): “I secured a record-breaking $18 trillion of investment into the United States.” Associated Press rating: Misleading (Trump has provided no evidence for the $18 trillion figure; even the White House cites a much lower $9.6 trillion, which includes speculative and pre-existing commitments.) FACT FOCUS: Trump’s glowing account of progress is at odds with his government’s own stats Donald Trump Rating
BLATANT LIE	Claim via Social Media: ABC news anchor David Muir snapped on air while discussing U.S. President Donald Trump in January 2026, warning of martial law and no midterms. Snopes rating: False (He didn’t) Did David Muir ‘snap’ on air, warning of martial law and no midterms?
FALSE	(International: United Kingdom): The signals emitted by 5G towers are damaging to humans, animals and plants, and can cause health conditions, including heart and vision problems. Full Fact rating: False (There is no evidence that 5G technology is harmful to human health when used within the recommended exposure limits.) Inaccurate poster warning about 5G health risks circulates again – Full Fact

Disclaimer: We are providing links to fact-checks by third-party fact-checkers. If you do not agree with a fact check, please directly contact the source of that fact check.