Fake poll firm rattles Michigan, Wisconsin races after data admission
Why it matters: The group’s surveys were cited by campaigns and major outlets, and one Democrat said donors pulled back after the numbers spread.
Wedgewood Polling said it fabricated survey results as part of what it called an experiment on weaknesses in the polling industry, setting off backlash in Democratic circles and renewed scrutiny of election data. Its numbers had been cited in Michigan’s Democratic Senate primary and Wisconsin’s gubernatorial race, including by Abdul El-Sayed’s campaign and by media outlets such as The New York Times and Decision Desk HQ. Michigan state Sen. Mallory McMorrow said the polling hurt fundraising and fueled pressure on her to leave the race. The Times said it removed 15 Wedgewood polls from its projections after the admission.