3 sources·Technology

Meta Addresses Claims of Forced Follows Following Trump's Inauguration

Meta responds to allegations of users automatically following Trump's accounts after he assumes the presidency, explaining the process is standard during transitions.

The distribution of story sources: left-leaning (blue), center (light gray), and right-leaning (red).
Mostly Reliable
The underlying sources are generally reliable but sometimes include opinion, propaganda, or minor inaccuracies.
Balanced
The underlying sources are either a balanced mix of left and right or primarily centrist.
  1. Why some Instagram users are suddenly following Trump, Vance

    The controversy surrounding automatic follows of Trump and Vance on Meta's platforms reveals a deeper unease about the company's handling of user experiences and its shifting stances on political engagement.

    Why some Instagram users are suddenly following Trump, Vance

    The HillThe Hill·3M
    Reliable
    This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
    ·
    Center
    This outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.
  2. Meta addresses allegations of auto-follows to Trump

    Meta's denial of claims that users were automatically following Trump and Vance highlights the complexities of social media transitions during political changes, underscoring the company's stance on user agency and management of official accounts.

    Meta addresses allegations of auto-follows to Trump

    Washington ExaminerWashington Examiner·3M
    Mostly Reliable
    This source is generally reliable but sometimes includes opinion, propaganda, or minor inaccuracies.
    ·
    Leans Right
    This outlet slightly leans right.
  3. Meta pushes back on claims that it's boosting Trump on Facebook and Instagram

    As Meta faces scrutiny over its political shifts, the company's explanations appear increasingly inconsistent, leaving users questioning the motivations behind the changes and the transparency of its practices surrounding presidential transitions.

    Meta pushes back on claims that it's boosting Trump on Facebook and Instagram

    NBC NewsNBC News·3M
    Reliable
    This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
    ·
    Center
    This outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.
  1. The Hill
  2. Washington Examiner
  3. NBC News
Updated: Jan 22nd, 2025, 7:59 PM ET

Summary

A summary of the key points of this story verified across multiple sources.

Following President Trump's inauguration, concerns arose that Facebook and Instagram users were automatically following Trump and Vance. Meta clarified that this was a standard transition practice, disputing claims of forced follows. Meta's recent policy changes and controversies regarding its political stance have also drawn scrutiny, including changes to its fact-checking system and diversity initiatives. The situation highlights growing tensions and user concerns over political biases on social media platforms.

Perspectives

Compare opinions on this story from liberal (Left), conservative (Right) or center-leaning news organizations.

No center-leaning sources available for this story.