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Fact-Checker Retracts Dismissal of COVID Lab Leak Theory

8/15/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Glenn Kessler, a former Washington Post fact-checker, retracted his 2020 dismissal of the COVID-19 lab leak theory.
He recognized the backlash from conservatives and stressed the need for precise headline framing.
Kessler's initial fact-check prioritized bioweapon claims over the lab leak theory.
He revised his position, citing new evidence that increased the theory's credibility.

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Story summary

Glenn Kessler, a former Washington Post fact-checker, retracted his 2020 dismissal of the COVID-19 lab leak theory.
He recognized the backlash from conservatives and stressed the need for precise headline framing.
Kessler's initial fact-check prioritized bioweapon claims over the lab leak theory.
He revised his position, citing new evidence that increased the theory's credibility.