President Joe Biden has voiced strong opposition to Meta’s decision to replace its professional fact-checking teams with a community-based moderation model, describing it as a step backward for truth and accountability.
Biden Challenges Meta’s New Approach
Speaking during a press call, Biden criticized Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg for abandoning fact-checking efforts. “Walking away from fact-checking undermines the values this country stands for,” Biden stated, emphasizing the critical role of accurate information in maintaining justice and transparency.
In response, Zuckerberg defended the move, asserting that fact-checking had eroded public trust in the platform. He argued that the decision promotes free speech and simplifies moderation policies, drawing parallels to Elon Musk’s approach on his platform, X.
Broader Backlash Against Meta’s Policies
Meta’s decision to disband its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) team has further fueled criticism. The company cited shifting legal and policy trends in the U.S. as the reason for this change. Together with the removal of fact-checking, these moves have raised questions about Meta’s commitment to accountability and transparency.
The White House expressed concern over Meta’s direction, urging tech companies to balance independent decision-making with public responsibility. Biden highlighted the risks of unchecked misinformation, calling Meta’s approach “irresponsible” and damaging to public trust.
Tensions Between Zuckerberg and Biden on Content Moderation
Adding to the controversy, Zuckerberg claimed that the Biden administration had pressured Facebook to remove certain COVID-19-related content. While the platform complied in some cases, Zuckerberg admitted to later questioning some of these decisions. This dispute has reignited debates about the role of social media companies in moderating content and their responsibility to prevent the spread of misinformation.
Biden’s Warning on Misinformation
Concluding his remarks, Biden emphasized the importance of truth in maintaining trust and fairness. “Allowing unchecked content to spread undermines trust and fairness,” he warned, reiterating the dangers posed by misinformation and urging platforms like Meta to prioritize accuracy and accountability in their policies.