In the wake of Donald Trump’s inauguration on Monday, Meta has found itself addressing user complaints regarding automatic following of official accounts tied to the new Trump administration. Some Facebook and Instagram users expressed discontent after realizing they were "automatically" following not only President Trump but also Vice-President JD Vance and First Lady Melania Trump.
Meta spokesperson Andy Stone emphasized that the transition protocols were consistent with those during previous presidential transitions. He noted that these accounts are managed by the White House and updated to reflect shifts in position holders. Notably, account handles such as Potus, VicePresident, and Flotus indicate official government roles. Archived versions of the accounts revealed they previously belonged to Joe Biden and Jill Biden, illustrating the process of transition.
Trump, returning to the presidency for a second term, has swiftly begun implementing executive orders that define his political vision, such as withdrawing from the World Health Organization and declaring a national emergency at the southern border. His inauguration drew major attention, attended by prominent tech figures, including Meta’s own Mark Zuckerberg.
Historically, Trump has taken aim at Meta, which suspended him in 2021 following his engagement in the Capitol riots. Issues surrounding the company's collaboration with the previous administration have fueled tensions, particularly as allegations regarding President Biden’s son emerged. Recently, Zuckerberg expressed regret over past decisions concerning Trump’s ban.
As Trump continues to influence social media dynamics, Zuckerberg’s relationship with him appears to have shifted, demonstrated by their interactions at social gatherings. Furthermore, Meta recently signaled a strategic shift away from third-party fact-checking in favor of “community notes,” a move likely aimed at easing some of Trump’s previous frustrations. The company asserts this aligns with its commitment to upholding free expression.
In this evolving landscape, the intersection of technology, governance, and public sentiment remains complex, with social media platforms adapting to the changing tides of political dynamics and user expectations.
Meta spokesperson Andy Stone emphasized that the transition protocols were consistent with those during previous presidential transitions. He noted that these accounts are managed by the White House and updated to reflect shifts in position holders. Notably, account handles such as Potus, VicePresident, and Flotus indicate official government roles. Archived versions of the accounts revealed they previously belonged to Joe Biden and Jill Biden, illustrating the process of transition.
Trump, returning to the presidency for a second term, has swiftly begun implementing executive orders that define his political vision, such as withdrawing from the World Health Organization and declaring a national emergency at the southern border. His inauguration drew major attention, attended by prominent tech figures, including Meta’s own Mark Zuckerberg.
Historically, Trump has taken aim at Meta, which suspended him in 2021 following his engagement in the Capitol riots. Issues surrounding the company's collaboration with the previous administration have fueled tensions, particularly as allegations regarding President Biden’s son emerged. Recently, Zuckerberg expressed regret over past decisions concerning Trump’s ban.
As Trump continues to influence social media dynamics, Zuckerberg’s relationship with him appears to have shifted, demonstrated by their interactions at social gatherings. Furthermore, Meta recently signaled a strategic shift away from third-party fact-checking in favor of “community notes,” a move likely aimed at easing some of Trump’s previous frustrations. The company asserts this aligns with its commitment to upholding free expression.
In this evolving landscape, the intersection of technology, governance, and public sentiment remains complex, with social media platforms adapting to the changing tides of political dynamics and user expectations.
