The phrase "phony issue" means something that is not genuine or real, and is meant to deceive or distract. It refers to a topic or problem that is made up or exaggerated to mislead people or divert attention away from more important matters.
Sentences with «phony issue»
Lewis suggested that Democrats were running on phony issues to distract from Craig's «radical» agenda and endorsements from liberal groups. (courant.com)
The American Federation for Children, which hosted Walker in Washington, D.C., is a spin - off of the Michigan - based group All Children Matter, which has poured millions into phony issue ads in state legislative races and been the defendant in multiple campaign - finance lawsuits, including one here in Wisconsin. (madisonamps.org)
This is a phony issue made up by «Crooked Christian Conservatives» This will prevent abortions. (religion.blogs.cnn.com)