An introductory phrase used before an
argumentative point is made to make your point seem valid, even though it most likely is not. Commonly seen as an immediate red-flag to someone who has no idea what they are talking about, and an early sign
that what they are about to say has absolutely zero evidence
to back it up.
I know for a fact that
Barack Obama is a muslim, hates America, and is purposely trying to ruin our
economy.