Trump says Meta has ‘come a long way’ after Zuckerberg ends fact-checking on platforms
In a groundbreaking move, Meta has announced the end of its fact-checking program on Facebook, Instagram, and other platforms, signaling a shift towards restoring free expression. This decision has garnered praise from President-elect Donald Trump, who commended the company for its progress.
In an exclusive interview with Fox News Digital, Trump expressed his approval of Meta’s new direction, stating that the company has “come a long way.” This sentiment comes after Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg declared the company’s intention to simplify its policies and prioritize free expression on its platforms.
Meta’s fact-checking program, which was implemented after the 2016 election, was aimed at managing content and combating misinformation. However, executives acknowledged that the system had become overly restrictive due to political pressure. In response, Meta plans to replace fact-checking with a new “Community Notes” model similar to that used on X.
Joel Kaplan, Meta’s Chief Global Policy Director, revealed that the company is also revising its content moderation rules to allow for more open discourse on sensitive topics such as immigration, trans issues, and gender. Kaplan emphasized the importance of facilitating free expression on the platform without fear of censorship.
While certain content will still be moderated, such as posts related to terrorism and child exploitation, Meta is shifting its focus towards reducing mistakes in content removal. Kaplan highlighted the company’s commitment to enforcing rules that support free expression while maintaining a safe online environment.
The timing of these changes aligns with the incoming Trump administration, which Kaplan believes presents a unique opportunity to prioritize free expression. Meta seeks to collaborate with the new administration on issues of promoting American business and technological innovation, reinforcing its commitment to upholding democratic values.
In a related development, UFC President Dana White, a staunch supporter of Trump, has joined Meta’s board, signaling a further alignment with the administration’s goals. White expressed excitement about contributing to the future of AI and emerging technologies through his involvement with the company.
Additionally, former Microsoft executive Charlie Songhurst and Exov NV CEO John Elkann have also joined Meta’s board, bringing valuable expertise in artificial intelligence and European business. These strategic partnerships underscore Meta’s commitment to innovation and collaboration in the digital landscape.
Overall, Meta’s decision to end its fact-checking program and prioritize free expression reflects a significant shift in content moderation practices. With support from President-elect Donald Trump and key industry figures, Meta is poised to lead the way in promoting open discourse and technological advancement on its platforms.
