Joshua M. Scacco

Joshua M. Scacco is an Associate Professor in the Department of Communication and founding Director of the Center for Sustainable Democracy at the University of South Florida, College of Arts & Sciences. His work bridges political communication, media effects, and quantitative research methods, with a focus on democratic governance in the digital age.

• Education: PhD, University of Texas at Austin

Dr. Scacco’s research explores how communication technologies can strengthen democratic institutions, addressing topics like presidential digital rhetoric, health misinformation, election integrity, and media accountability. He employs computational methods and experimental designs to analyze media ecosystems.

Recent publications examine:

• Health communication challenges during the pandemic
• Political misinformation on social platforms
• Democratic backsliding and press responsibility
• Interactive media effects on political behavior

Dr. Scacco partners with the U.S. Department of State, journalism nonprofits, and local governments. He is affiliated with the Center for Media Engagement at the University of Texas at Austin.