President-elect Donald Trump has responded to Meta's decision to end its fact-checking program on Facebook, Instagram, and other platforms, acknowledging that the company has made significant progress. Meta announced that it is discontinuing its fact-checking initiative and relaxing speech restrictions to promote free expression across its platforms, recognizing that its content moderation practices had become overly stringent.
In an exclusive interview, Trump praised Meta's efforts, stating that he believes the company's presentation was excellent and commending their advancements.
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg revealed in a video that the company aims to simplify its policies, reduce errors, and prioritize free expression on its platforms by replacing fact-checking with a 'Community Notes' model similar to that used on X.
The third-party fact-checking program, initially implemented after the 2016 election, was primarily influenced by political pressure to combat misinformation. Meta executives admitted that the system had become overly restrictive and needed reform.
Meta's Chief Global Policy Director, Joel Kaplan, highlighted the company's plans to revise content moderation rules, particularly those impeding open discourse on sensitive topics like immigration, trans issues, and gender. Kaplan emphasized Meta's commitment to fostering free expression and ensuring that censorship fears do not hinder platform discussions.
Kaplan acknowledged the limitations of Meta's current automated systems, which he stated often make errors by removing content that does not violate platform standards. While certain content, such as terrorism-related posts, illegal drugs, and child exploitation, will continue to be moderated, Meta intends to focus on enforcing rules that target illegal and severe violations.
Regarding the timing of these changes, Kaplan noted the opportunity presented by the incoming Trump administration, which is perceived as supportive of free expression and less inclined towards pressuring companies to censor content.
Meta also expressed interest in collaborating with the Trump administration on issues of free expression, promoting American business, and advancing technological innovation. The company plans to personalize political content for users and concentrate enforcement efforts on severe violations.
Additionally, Meta welcomed UFC CEO Dana White and former Microsoft executive Charlie Songhurst to its board, signaling a strategic focus on AI and emerging technologies. John Elkann, CEO of Exor NV, also joined the board, bringing expertise in European business ventures.
