Since Elon Musk’s acquisition of X (formerly Twitter), several high-profile users previously banned for spreading misinformation, such as Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene and conspiracy theorist Alex Jones, have been reinstated. Their return has fueled a resurgence of conspiracy theories and misleading posts.
Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, after Hurricane Helene, posted debunked claims about government control over weather. Similarly, Alex Jones shared erroneous theories regarding hurricanes, accusing the Pentagon of manipulating the storms. These posts collectively garnered tens of thousands of likes and shares, reigniting controversies on the platform.
Before Musk’s takeover, these individuals were banned for violating platform policies on spreading misinformation and inciting violence. However, Musk’s decision to reinstate them was part of his vision for a “free speech” platform, which he emphasized after acquiring X in 2022. Many reinstated users, including figures like Laura Loomer, Mike Lindell, and Rogan O’Handley, have returned to sharing far-right views and conspiracy theories. They have large followings and significant influence on the platform.
Since their reinstatement, these accounts have propagated numerous false claims on topics like immigration, race, natural disasters, and election fraud. One prevalent claim, echoed by over half the reinstated accounts tracked by The New York Times, suggested that a recent assassination attempt on Donald Trump was orchestrated by Democrats. This narrative quickly spread, gaining millions of interactions in just 24 hours.
Another widely shared claim after Hurricane Helene involved baseless accusations that the government was manipulating weather events or withholding aid. Immigration-related misinformation also circulated, with posts about illegal immigrants committing crimes or engaging in voter fraud being shared millions of times.
Musk’s “amnesty” for previously suspended accounts has greatly amplified their reach. The controversial content they generate now shapes much of the discourse on X, with Musk himself frequently engaging with and promoting posts from these users to his 200 million followers.
Despite policies against hateful conduct, misleading media, and abusive content, incendiary posts have become increasingly prevalent on X. Experts, like Isabelle Frances-Wright from the Institute for Strategic Dialogue, have noted that X is evolving from a social network into an “opinion news network” where a small group of users wields outsized influence.
As the 2024 U.S. election nears, the reinstated accounts have also ramped up misinformation around voting, particularly pushing claims about stolen elections. Across thousands of posts, these narratives have garnered millions of interactions, creating concerns about their influence on public opinion and the upcoming election.
Musk has remained an active participant in these discussions, often promoting the content of reinstated users, further amplifying their reach and shaping the platform’s narrative.
