CNN states that Elon Musk’s social media platform X briefly returned online in Brazil on September 18 after being banned, with the company pledging cooperation with the Brazilian government in a major tone shift. The ban stemmed from a dispute with Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes, as Musk and X faced fines and legal obligations to reinstate service.
Musk’s Attacks on Justice De Moraes
Musk had openly criticized Justice Alexandre de Moraes, labeling him “Brazil’s Voldemort” and “dictator.” Musk’s criticisms focused on de Moraes’ actions to block certain accounts on X, which the court deemed were spreading hate speech and misinformation.
Legal Battles and Ban Enforcement
X was banned in Brazil after failing to comply with court orders to block accounts spreading misinformation. To lift the ban, X must settle legal paperwork, pay a $1 million fine, and provide evidence of blocking the flagged accounts, primarily belonging to supporters of former president Jair Bolsonaro.
Investigation into Misinformation and Democracy
The Brazilian court’s investigation began in 2020, targeting hate speech and false claims undermining democracy, such as conspiracies about the 2022 elections being stolen. X initially complied with court orders but later defied them, with Musk defending the reinstatement of blocked accounts.
US Political Support for Musk
The feud gained international attention, with US Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar introducing legislation targeting foreign officials, like de Moraes, for allegedly violating Americans’ First Amendment rights. Bolsonaro also voiced support for Musk, calling the court’s actions a violation of fundamental rights
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Source: CNN
