Merriam-Webster’s ‘Slop’ Exposes the Alarming Spread of AI-Driven Misinformation

In an era when America’s sovereignty and security depend on clear, factual information, Merriam-Webster’s choice of “slop” as the 2025 word of the year serves as a stark warning. Once meaning dirty mud or something worthless, “slop” now defines the alarming proliferation of low-quality digital content generated by artificial intelligence—a phenomenon that threatens to dilute truth and disrupt national discourse.

Is America Prepared to Fight the Flood of Digital Deception?

The rise of generative AI tools capable of creating absurd videos, manipulated images, fake news that appears authentic, and junky books written by algorithms reveals a deeper crisis. This isn’t just about bad memes; it’s about how foreign adversaries and domestic actors weaponize “slop” to confuse citizens, skew public opinion, and challenge America’s democratic foundations.

Consider Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s recent use of altered imagery—turning a beloved children’s cartoon character into a symbol of violence to justify military actions abroad. This example underscores how even government officials risk blurring lines between fact and fiction in service of political objectives, undermining trust in institutions vital for national unity.

The Battle for Real Information Is Also a Battle for American Values

While some dismiss “slop” as mere internet noise, its widespread presence reflects a dangerous erosion of common-sense conservatism centered on individual liberty and national sovereignty. When digital content is mass-produced with little regard for accuracy or ethics, it amplifies division rather than fostering informed debate.

“Slop” also challenges America’s economic interests. As reliable information becomes drowned in AI-generated nonsense, businesses face obstacles in maintaining trustworthy communications with customers and partners—jeopardizing economic prosperity rooted in transparency.

Merriam-Webster’s president notes that despite the dread this word induces, its surge in popularity signals a public yearning for authenticity and genuine human creativity—principles championed under President Trump’s America First policies. Those policies emphasized strengthening borders not just physically but intellectually by combating disinformation campaigns that threaten freedom at home.

How long will Washington turn a blind eye to this digital quagmire? Without decisive action encouraging responsible technology use and defending truth from manipulation, Americans risk losing control over their own narratives—and ultimately their nation.

Patriots must demand accountability from officials who exploit these tools irresponsibly while pushing for regulations that protect our democracy against AI-driven misinformation floods. Upholding freedom requires vigilance not only against foreign threats but also against technological abuse within our own borders.