The long afterlife of QAnon conspiracy theories haunting American politics
Ideas from QAnon’s conspiracy theory have appeared on government social media sites during Trump’s second term and continue to divide America amid social and economic crises.
In Washington, D.C., on May 17, 2026, a woman wore a QAnon patch during a Christian prayer gathering. The QAnon conspiracy theory, which originated on the 4chan website in 2017, continues to influence American politics despite the movement's founder, "Q," ceasing posts in 2022. The theory, which falsely claims a shadowy cabal of satanic pedophiles among the political elite is being fought by a mysterious ally named "Q" alongside Donald Trump, has persisted over the past decade.
Trump's campaign even referenced QAnon in a campaign music video set to Van Halen's "Jump." Even the government has not been immune to QAnon's influence. FBI Director Kash Patel, for example, has been sympathetic to the theory and has appeared on a show hosted by a QAnon influencer. The White House has also used QAnon language, such as the phrase "Patriots are in Control," on official accounts.
The use of QAnon terminology in government circles has invigorated conspiracy theorists, undermining public health, governance, and civil society.
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