Taking Action: Reaching Out to The New York Times to Expose Manipulated Public Opinion
As we approach one of the most critical elections in U.S. history, democracy hangs in the balance. Today, I took a crucial step in defending that democracy by reaching out to The New York Times, urging them to cover a story that could shape the future of free speech in America.
Elon Musk’s control over Twitter/X has raised significant concerns about the manipulation of public discourse. During a live call with Donald Trump, comments marked as “most relevant” were alarmingly one-sided, promoting a specific political narrative. In a time when democracy is fragile, we cannot allow one individual to dictate the flow of information and control the digital public square.
I have already received a response from the European Commission, which has opened formal proceedings to investigate Twitter/X’s potential violations of the Digital Services Act. But now, the question remains: Will American newspapers like The New York Times step up to tell the story of manipulated public opinion, especially when democracy is at risk?
This isn’t just a battle against Elon Musk—it’s a battle for the future of free speech, fairness, and integrity in the media. Let's see if the nation's most respected newspapers have the courage to expose how these platforms are being weaponized to sway public opinion.
Stay tuned for updates on this critical issue. For more information, visit Voice for Change Foundation.
Subject: Urgent Story Submission for September 10 Debate – Democracy and Free Speech Under Threat on Twitter/X
Email Content:
Dear Editorial Team,
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to propose a timely and important story for The New York Times regarding Elon Musk's manipulation of public discourse on Twitter/X, a platform with the power to influence political outcomes.
Ahead of the highly anticipated presidential debate tomorrow, September 10, 2024, between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, our democracy faces an unprecedented threat from tech giants like Musk, whose actions undermine free speech and the democratic process.
Recently, during a live phone call broadcast on Twitter/X between Musk and Trump, I observed that the comments deemed “most relevant” were overwhelmingly biased in favor of Trump, suppressing alternative viewpoints. This act of manipulation directly influences the public’s perception and skews political discourse in favor of one candidate.
In response to this concerning trend, I submitted a formal request to the European Commission to investigate potential violations of the Digital Services Act by Twitter/X. Today, I received confirmation that proceedings have been initiated, focusing on Musk’s content moderation practices, transparency issues, and risk management failures.
This fight is not just about Elon Musk or one social media platform. It is about safeguarding the future of free speech and ensuring that the digital public square remains fair and open to all viewpoints. As someone who has taken legal steps to hold Musk accountable, I believe it is crucial for the public to be made aware of these manipulations, especially as we approach the November election.
Below is a detailed piece I’ve written on this issue, explaining how Musk’s actions on Twitter/X undermine the First Amendment and democracy itself:
Submission to The New York Times: A Threat to Democracy on Twitter/X
As the presidential debate approaches tomorrow, September 10, 2024, our democracy faces unprecedented challenges. Among them is the threat posed by tech giants who have the power to manipulate public discourse. Elon Musk, the CEO of Twitter/X, is one such figure, and his actions raise serious concerns about the future of free speech and democracy.
Recently, I witnessed firsthand how Musk's platform is being used to skew political narratives. During a live phone call between Musk and former President Donald Trump, Twitter/X filtered comments, prioritizing pro-Trump sentiment and suppressing opposing viewpoints. This manipulation undermines the platform's claim of fostering open dialogue and poses a threat to the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.
I took action by submitting a request to the European Commission, asking them to investigate potential violations of the Digital Services Act (DSA) by Twitter/X. The response I received today confirms that the European Commission has already launched formal proceedings against Twitter/X for potential breaches in risk management, content moderation, and transparency.
The importance of this issue cannot be overstated. Musk's actions signal the dangerous potential of concentrated power in the hands of one individual, especially when that power is used to shape public opinion during an election season. Democracy thrives on diverse viewpoints and open debate, not on one-sided propaganda. If social media platforms like Twitter/X are allowed to continue operating without proper oversight, the integrity of our electoral process is at risk.
Elon Musk’s claim of being a free speech absolutist contrasts sharply with his platform’s actions. When political bias is baked into the algorithms that determine what content is visible, it erodes the public’s trust in the digital public square. Twitter/X has become less of a forum for free speech and more of a tool for political manipulation—one that directly benefits Musk’s own interests.
This fight is not just about Elon Musk or one platform. It’s about safeguarding the core principles of our democracy. As we prepare for the upcoming election, it is imperative that we demand accountability and transparency from tech companies that have the ability to influence millions of voters. The digital public square must remain open and fair for everyone, regardless of political ideology.
I am not afraid to take the necessary legal steps against the most powerful through the appropriate channels to safeguard our democracy. But I cannot do this alone. It is time for all of us to stand up and protect the First Amendment. Let’s not be afraid to take action together, even if it means challenging the most powerful.
Kevin Bihan-Poudec
For further details, please visit my nonprofit organization’s website and follow us on Facebook for updates.
Blog Post (8/14/2024): Democracy in Danger in America Led by the Most Prominent Tech CEO: Elon Musk
Blog Post (9/9/2024): Elon Musk, Twitter/X and the Fight for Freedom of Speech: Taking Action Against Manipulation in the Digital Age
Facebook Post (9/9/2024):
Thank you for considering this story at such a critical moment in our nation’s history. I look forward to your response and hope The New York Times can bring this important issue to the forefront.
Sincerely,
Kevin Bihan-Poudec
Founder, Voice for Change Foundation
Advocate for ethical AI and Workforce preservation
info@voiceforchangefoundation.org
In conclusion, we stand at a crucial juncture where the integrity of democracy is being tested by the manipulation of public discourse on digital platforms. My efforts in reaching out to The New York Times are part of a larger call to action, urging American media to expose these threats and ensure that the values of free speech and fairness remain intact. As we navigate these challenging times, it’s essential to hold powerful figures accountable and protect the very foundations upon which our democracy is built.
