Elon Musk’s mission to establish X, formerly Twitter, as a bastion of free speech remains challenged, according to a recent study by the Media Research Center (MRC). The study indicates that the platform’s algorithm continues to suppress conservative voices while amplifying those of leftist figures.
While Musk has made strides towards promoting free speech, MRC’s findings suggest that elements of the old censorship regime persist. Using X’s AI search assistant, Grok, MRC researchers conducted tests to determine how visibility scores are assigned to congressional members. These scores affect which accounts are promoted or suppressed on the platform.
The study revealed that visibility scores are based on four factors: Mass Appeal (38%), Reputation (30%), Toxicity (21%), and Follow (11%). Subjective factors such as “Reputation” and “Toxicity” contributed significantly to the bias against conservatives.
The data showed Senate Democrats with an average visibility score of 82.4, compared to 66.8 for Senate Republicans. House Democrats averaged a score of 67, while House Republicans scored 58.6. Among the 100 senators, the top 42 visibility scores were all awarded to Democrats.
A notable example from the study indicated that Rep. Maxine Waters (D-CA) was rated as the “least toxic, most reputable, and highest-ranked House member,” while Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) had the highest visibility rating of any legislator.
MRC attributed these biases to internal resistance within X, rather than Musk’s direct actions. Despite Musk’s 2022 acquisition of Twitter, which revealed extensive government collusion to censor conservative viewpoints, the platform continues to struggle against entrenched leftist influences.
This study underscores the continued fight against leftist control in social media and the importance of ensuring unbiased and open platforms for all users. As X navigates these challenges, the need for vigilance in protecting free speech remains critical.
