The 2024 election is fast approaching – voting has even started in a number of states, but on Instagram, the political conversation is being stifled – and it’s not by accident. A recent Washington Post investigation reveals how Meta is suppressing credible political content, leaving creators like Arielle Fodor, better known as Mrs. Frazzled, struggling to reach their audience. [1]
Mrs. Frazzled, known for her viral, comedic videos, often uses humor to address social and political issues. But whenever she posts about politics, her audience drops by a staggering 40%. Simply saying the word “vote” in her captions led to a 63% decline in reach. Washington Post columnist Geoffrey Fowler uncovered this troubling trend through a deep dive into Fodor’s account data – a pattern that mirrors the findings of our recent research. [2]
What’s even more disempowering for creators like Fodor? They don’t know when or how their work crosses a line that triggers Instagram’s suppression. Fodor explains, “It makes people more distrustful of these social media platforms.”
And she’s not alone. Earlier this year, our research found that five prominent accounts focused on LGBTQ+ rights, women’s issues, and political education saw an average 65% drop in reach over 10 weeks this spring. What we’re seeing is clear: Meta’s algorithm is actively deprioritizing important conversations that millions of people need to see – especially in an election year.
Here’s why this matters: With major elections approaching in the U.S. and globally, Instagram’s suppression of political content undermines democratic processes. Social media has become one of the most powerful tools for mobilization, activism, and education. Yet, Meta’s policies are creating barriers for creators and organizations fighting for the causes they believe in, from voting rights to climate justice.
Meta’s power to shape our public discourse is unprecedented. Meta’s gone so far as to limit its platforms’ users from talking about who they are and what they care about, unless they risk losing their audience. This affects not only the creators but also the communities that depend on their content for vital information about voting, policy, and social justice.
Together, we can hold Meta accountable and ensure that all voices – especially those calling for political education and change – are heard.
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Accountable Tech is a non-profit organization advocating for digital justice by reining in Big Tech’s threats to society and democracy with legislative, regulatory and structural solutions. We are leading the movement to advance a better, more human-centered digital future and tech for the common good. To learn more, visit accountabletech.org.
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