Brazilian Judge Alexandre de Moraes Targets Elon Musk Over Content Moderation

A powerful Brazilian Supreme Court judge, Alexandre de Moraes, has set his sights on billionaire Elon Musk, the owner of social media platform X (formerly Twitter), over content moderation issues in Brazil. Moraes ordered X to block certain accounts in the country as part of an investigation into the spread of disinformation and hate speech online, which Musk had initially said he would challenge.

However, X's Brazilian unit has now informed Moraes that it will comply with all orders issued by the Brazilian Supreme Court and the Superior Electoral Court. The reversal comes after Moraes opened an investigation into Musk, alleging that he has obstructed justice and engaged in a disinformation campaign to illegally influence public opinion.

Moraes, who also heads the Superior Electoral Tribunal, is investigating 'digital militias' accused of spreading fake news and hate messages during the previous Bolsonaro government, as well as a potential coup attempt. X has been subpoenaed by the U.S. House of Representatives Judiciary Committee to provide information on Moraes' orders regarding content moderation, and the platform has complied with the request to share confidential court documents.

Why this matters: The case highlights the growing tension between social media platforms and governments over content moderation and the spread of disinformation. It also highlights the increasing assertiveness of the Brazilian judiciary in combating online threats to democracy.

Moraes, known for his stern demeanor, has emerged as a key figure in probing alleged attacks on democracy by former far-right President Jair Bolsonaro. Despite his severe image, Moraes is known as a pragmatist with a gift for dialogue, including with the military. His rise to power has been driven by both his legal expertise and his political acumen, making him a powerful and polarizing figure in Brazil.

The ongoing legal battle between X and Moraes has become a flashpoint in the broader debate about the role of social media platforms in addressing the spread of disinformation and hate speech online. As Moraes continues his investigation into anti-democratic acts by so-called 'digital militias', the case is likely to have significant implications for the future of content moderation in Brazil and beyond.

Key Takeaways

• Brazilian judge orders X (Twitter) to block accounts over disinformation.
• X reverses course, agrees to comply with Brazilian court orders.
• Judge investigates Musk for obstructing justice and disinformation campaign.
• X subpoenaed by U.S. House to provide info on content moderation orders.
• Case highlights tension between social media and governments over content.