The Record · weekly wrap-up
The Week in Grades
Aug 31–Sep 6, 2026 · 235 reports fact-checked
Every week Clad wraps up what its fact-checks found: the best- and worst-graded coverage, the claims most disputed by the evidence, and the stories that were covered heavily from one side. This is the same review the Sunday newsletter carries — kept here for the record.
Free account · no card
See grades free with an account.
Letter grades, lean scores, charts, midterms tools, and Reader Reactions unlock the moment you sign up. No card required.
- Grades on every report
- Lean scores & charts
- Quiz · midterms ballot · newsletter
Already have an account? Sign in.
Most disputed claims
Trump leaves an opportunity for pro-democracy movement to win the next 10 years
Premised on viewing his term as disaster; midterms loom and war/economy discontent exists, but his base and policy wins on immigration provide counter-momentum. Read the full report →
Hegseth fired two dozen officers for reasons unrelated to performance, with 60% being Black or female, possibly directed by the president to target them
Firing of Gen. Randy George and others (including CQ Brown, Franchetti) is confirmed in April 2026 amid Iran war; no public data verifies exact count, 60% figure, or racial motivation—officials cite cultural change and merit, with some reports linking to policy disagreements like a Kid Rock probe. Read the full report →
Socialists are no longer a fringe faction but the majority of the Democratic Party winning primaries in all 50 states
DSA has seen primary wins and influence (e.g., Mamdani allies in NY 2026 races) but remains a minority; most Democrats are not DSA members. Read the full report →
Leslie Gruff, not a victim, who conspired with Epstein to traffic other women
Lesley Groff (Epstein's assistant) named co-conspirator in 2008 plea but never charged; she testified she was unaware of abuse, scheduled massages but denies knowledge of trafficking; DOJ interviewed her in 2026. Read the full report →
Trump has gotten rich off his administration to the tune of at least $1.6 billion
Financial disclosures show ~$2.2B income in 2025 largely from crypto ventures (~$1.4B), real estate, and licensing; critics call it unprecedented enrichment with ethics concerns, but not direct 'grifting' from office. Read the full report →