"Mother's Perspective: From Accused Cult Leader to Victim"

CNN investigates how conspiracy theories, particularly those propagated by QAnon and its offshoots, are tearing American families apart. The article focuses on the case of Michael Protzman, who became a leading figure in a QAnon offshoot that believed JFK Jr. was alive and working with Donald Trump. Protzman's family describes him as a victim whose convictions were radically altered by online misinformation, while others see him as a manipulative opportunist who led his followers astray. The article highlights the broader impact of fringe conspiracy theories on American families and democracy, fueled by politically and financially motivated opportunists who exploit social media.