Mark Zuckerberg, the CEO of Meta Platforms, Inc., has reportedly undergone a significant shift in his political views. While once an enthusiastic activist, he has now moved towards a more classic liberal stance, marked by a healthy dose of skepticism and caution. This evolution in his thinking has been driven by his experiences in Washington, D.C., and the political scrutiny faced by his company.
Zuckerberg’s early activism on issues like immigration and social justice has been tempered by the negative experiences he has encountered in the political arena. The backlash against Meta’s involvement in political matters, including the controversial $400 million donation to the Center for Tech and Civic Life for voting safety during the pandemic, has also played a role in his disillusionment. This donation, labeled “Zuckerbucks” by former President Donald Trump, was criticized for allegedly favoring Democratic voter turnout. Zuckerberg has expressed regret over the negative fallout from this contribution.
In a move further away from direct political engagement, Zuckerberg and his wife, Dr. Priscilla Chan, decided to halt the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative’s internal political efforts in 2021. They opted instead to support two bipartisan organizations, including Fwd.us, demonstrating a shift towards a more neutral and less partisan approach.
Privately, Zuckerberg now identifies more closely with libertarianism or “classical liberalism.” This involves a preference for free markets, globalism, and a skepticism of regulations that hinder businesses. This shift is a stark contrast to the vocal activism he once embraced.
It’s interesting to contrast Zuckerberg’s evolution with that of Elon Musk, another tech mogul. Musk has embraced a more provocative and openly conservative approach, particularly after acquiring X (formerly Twitter). Musk champions free speech principles and has publicly supported Donald Trump for the 2024 U.S. presidential election.
Zuckerberg’s shift towards classic liberalism is evident in his recent public statements. Earlier this month, he expressed fatigue with taking on responsibility for problems beyond his or his company’s control. He also revealed that the Joe Biden administration pressured Meta to censor certain COVID-19 content, a move he now regrets not opposing sooner.
Despite the controversies surrounding his political views and his relationship with former President Trump, Zuckerberg’s wealth has continued to soar. His net worth has increased by $51 billion this year, placing him on track to become the world’s richest person. His journey from vocal activist to cautious classic liberal showcases the complexities of navigating the political landscape for individuals, especially those holding immense power and influence in the tech industry.
