A group of Democratic lawmakers has expressed significant apprehension regarding recent policy adjustments made by Meta, particularly in areas such as content moderation, diversity programs, and fact-checking. In a letter addressed to Meta’s CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, members of the House Energy and Commerce Committee have raised concerns about the timing and implications of these changes. The committee members are seeking detailed explanations from Zuckerberg regarding the motivations behind these alterations, especially considering the close proximity to Donald Trump's presidency. They are also questioning whether external pressures or discussions with representatives of the Trump administration influenced these decisions.

The core of the lawmakers' concern revolves around Meta's decision to relax its content moderation rules and discontinue third-party fact-checking services. These changes come at a time when trust and safety online are critical issues. The Democrats argue that the new policies appear to align with the interests of the Trump administration, raising questions about the integrity and independence of Meta's operations. The letter points out that Zuckerberg's recent statements seem to contradict his earlier commitments to accountability and transparency, specifically referencing the Oversight Board, which was initially established to uphold these principles.

The lawmakers further highlight concerns over Zuckerberg's public remarks advocating for more "masculine energy" in corporate environments. This statement is seen as contradictory given that key leadership roles within Meta, including the Chief Legal Officer and Chief Financial Officer positions, are held by women. Additionally, several important committees of Meta’s board are chaired by women, adding to the complexity of this issue.

Meta has been asked to provide a comprehensive response by February 21, 2025. However, a spokesperson for the company stated that they do not have additional comments beyond what has already been communicated. This stance leaves many questions unanswered, particularly regarding the influence of external factors on Meta's policy decisions. The ongoing dialogue between Congress and Meta underscores the broader debate about the role of social media platforms in maintaining a balanced and safe online environment.