The unusual political dynamics percolating around three of the largest social media companies raise questions about national and local impact. We review the intrigue.
Political pundits are either enraged or enthralled by the influence of Elon Musk on the Trump administration. Some claim that the honeymoon phase between Musk and the MAGA mob is waning, while others are nervous about overreach by the billionaire. Should Utahns be concerned?
Cowley: Musk was supposed to carry the banner of the new conservative agenda: America first, cut wasteful government spending and curtail illegal immigration. MAGA supporters are outraged that even before Trump takes office, Musk and Ramaswamy are using their influence to fight for H-1B visas that directly benefit their own companies. Adding to the indictment, Musk is now censoring MAGA influencers on X who are critical of his actions. Musk acquired Twitter, now known as X, because he wanted to end online censorship and promote free speech. That seems to apply only to those who refrain from criticizing him online.
Though H-1B visas are extremely important to our economy and communities, is that really where he needs to exert his time and influence right now? It’s not a great look for Musk, who already has a reputation of doing what benefits him, regardless of the impact to others.
I’m waiting to see just how much Musk will support MAGA if/when the EV tax credits expire.
Pignanelli: “The difficulty with businessmen entering politics after they’ve had a successful business career is that they want to start at the top.” — Harry S. Truman
Wealthy citizens exerting extraordinary influence on our republic is a consistent feature. Banker Stephen Girard financed the nation’s expenses during the War of 1812. The famous 19th-century robber barons and their monopolistic control of railroads, natural resources and commerce directly impacted national and state politics. JP Morgan reorganized our economy after bailing out the federal government — twice. Henry Ford II and William Knudsen (GM) refashioned the country’s industrial output for WWII. William Randolph Hearst controlled the newspapers in all major American cities and significantly affected domestic and foreign policy decisions.
Thus, precedence exists that the individual who led the innovation of electric vehicles and space technology plays a prominent role in American politics. However, in the 21st century, constitutional and practical checks and balances ensure that Musk’s input will likely be positive but not dominant.
The Supreme Court heard arguments on whether to uphold congressional action requiring TikTok to be sold to an American company by Chinese parent company Bytedance. Allegations of First Amendment rights and national security concerns are in the center of the dispute. A Court ruling could force the closure of the popular app (used by 150 million Americans) in the United States. How could this impact Utah businesses and families?
Cowley: Social media represents more than mindless scrolling of lipsyncing videos, “get ready with me” vlogs or sourdough-making tips (but really, if you have tips, do share). It’s an e-commerce platform for many Utah small businesses to sell their wares. It also provides an income stream for numerous stay-at-home moms and more. Should TikTok get banned, it will mean lost income for the people and businesses who monetize the app.
The clearest path to prevent TikTok from being banned is for China to sell its American assets to Shark Tank’s “Mr. Wonderful,” Kevin O’Leary, or Elon Musk. Cue the liberal hand-wringing now.
Pignanelli: Concerns about TikTok differ from those with other applications. The company’s owners are obligated to cooperate with the Chinese government, which causes worries. Thus, security issues push hard against economic considerations.
Meta founder Mark Zuckerberg shut down the fact checker program on Facebook and Instagram and will be utilizing community notes instead. Many view this as an about-face and concession to President Trump. Is it? How will Utah users view the change?
Cowley: My my, what a full-circle moment this has turned out to be. Zuckerberg was justifiably put through the ringer after his one-sided censorship during COVID but later indicated regret over those actions. He made a terrible judgement call and is rectifying it. Some criticize him for bending the knee to Trump, attributing it seeking favor after a shift in political power but I say, come on in, Mark, the conservative waters are fine!
Utah grannies (the only ones still on Facebook) will barely notice the reemergence of uncensored speech on their feed, intermingled with posts about their grandkids’ soccer tournaments, but it is an important change that free speech advocates applaud.
Free speech is always in vogue, regardless of what party is in power or what crisis we are facing. There is a reason why free speech is the FIRST Amendment. All others are subject to manipulation if varying viewpoints cannot be shared, debated and discussed openly.
Pignanelli: Americans and Utahns have become increasingly suspect of “fact checkers.” The pandemic significantly elevated this emotion. Furthermore, there is a perception that politicians on the right (from the president down the ballot) were scrutinized more than the left. The internet has so many sources of information that citizens can double-check any statements and make their own decisions.