Miller Highlights ‘Trump Effect’ in Zuckerberg’s Pledge for Free Speech

In a recent segment of The Ingraham Angle, Stephen Miller, incoming Deputy Chief of Policy for President-elect Donald Trump, discussed Mark Zuckerberg’s statements about free speech and content moderation on Meta’s platforms. Miller emphasized the importance of turning rhetoric into action to protect free expression.

Zuckerberg’s Claims of Government Pressure

Mark Zuckerberg, during his appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience, claimed that the Biden administration pressured Meta to suppress specific content during the COVID-19 pandemic. He explained that officials urged the platform to remove posts about vaccine side effects, even if accurate. Zuckerberg described the interactions, stating, “These people from the Biden administration would call up our team and scream at them.”

Miller responded with cautious skepticism. “I can’t see inside of Mark Zuckerberg’s inner thoughts… but I can tell you what he told me,” Miller said. He recounted a meeting with Zuckerberg at Mar-a-Lago, where Zuckerberg expressed a commitment to free speech. However, Miller stressed the need for proof. “Words are empty. The proof is in the results,” he stated.

Verifying Change on Meta’s Platforms

Miller highlighted ongoing concerns about Meta’s policies, particularly the suppression of conservative voices. He pointed out that many political channels face demonetization and limited reach. “We need to verify… that we’re not monetizing and that we’re not censoring,” Miller insisted.

He also underscored the broader cultural implications of such shifts. “When the CEO of a large corporation says, ‘I’m going to push for free speech,’ that’s something we should encourage,” Miller said. However, he emphasized that public commitments must be followed by real, measurable changes.

The Trump Effect on Corporate Policies

According to Miller, Zuckerberg’s shift reflects the broader influence of President-elect Trump’s stance against censorship. Miller credited Trump with creating pressure on corporations to reconsider their content moderation policies. “This is all part of the Trump effect,” Miller remarked, noting Trump’s intent to use federal resources to protect First Amendment rights and combat discrimination.

Miller also brought up the $400 million that Zuckerberg donated during the 2020 election cycle. This move, criticized by conservatives, further highlights the need for accountability. “Conservatives have had immense complaints about Meta’s platforms,” Miller said, reinforcing the need for transparency and action.

Actions Over Words

Miller concluded by urging vigilance and verification. While Zuckerberg’s statements mark a potential step forward, Miller emphasized that true change requires consistent follow-through. He called for Meta to demonstrate its commitment through visible, impactful policies that address long-standing concerns.