Musk Reverses Twitter Bans on Journalists After User Poll
Elon Musk reinstates several high-profile journalists after a Twitter poll, though new suspensions like that of Taylor Lorenz continue to spark free speech concerns.
Elon Musk reinstates several high-profile journalists to Twitter early Saturday after users vote in an online poll. Musk suspends multiple reporters on Thursday without warning, but he reverses the bans after declaring that "the people have spoken." The affected journalists include reporters from major outlets such as The New York Times, CNN, and The Washington Post.
The billionaire relies on Twitter polls to make major platform decisions, similar to his recent choice to restore former President Donald Trump's account. Musk initially states that the suspensions for accounts that shared his location will last seven days, but he unexpectedly lifts the bans ahead of schedule. While many reporters celebrate their return to the platform, some suspended accounts remain locked as of Saturday night.
Even as the original group regains access, new suspensions create fresh controversy. Washington Post columnist Taylor Lorenz loses her account Saturday night while seeking comment from Musk for a story. Lorenz criticizes the arbitrary nature of the bans, warning that Musk's ability to block anyone he dislikes carries dangerous consequences for free speech.