Social media erupted with conspiracy theories after an ABC affiliate accidentally aired Pennsylvania election results showing Kamala Harris leading Donald Trump. The incident occurred during a Formula 1 Mexico Grand Prix broadcast on WNEP-TV, with the ticker displaying Harris at 52% and Trump at 47%.
Social Media Erupts with Rigging Accusations
Almost instantly, viewers took to social media, claiming election fraud. “The cheat is on,” one post read. WNEP-TV later clarified that the numbers were randomly generated test data, mistakenly broadcast during pre-election testing ahead of the November 5 election night.
One skeptical user posted, “If the same graphics pop up after November 5th, it’ll be EXTREMELY suspicious.” Another added, “ABC is cheating for the Democrat machine. Their license should be revoked.”
WNEP-TV Issues Apology and Clarification
In response, WNEP stated, “Those numbers should not have appeared on the screen, and it was an error by WNEP. The numbers were randomly generated test results used to ensure proper equipment functionality for election night.” They also reminded viewers that Pennsylvania law prohibits counting any ballots until after polls close on Election Day.
The affiliate apologized, adding that measures are in place to prevent a repeat.
Trump Allies Seize the Moment
Trump, currently polling narrowly ahead in Pennsylvania, has been vocal about potential election fraud, calling mail-in ballots “corrupt” and encouraging a large voter turnout to make the election “too big to rig.” This incident has added fuel to ongoing claims by Trump supporters, who argue that mainstream media, including ABC, is biased in favor of Democrats.
With just days until Election Day, tensions are high, as Pennsylvania’s swing-state status means every vote will be crucial in the close race.
