How Donald Trump and Elon Musk killed Twitter, with Marty Baron and Zoe Schiffer

Title: How Donald Trump and Elon Musk Influenced Twitter’s Evolution

Introduction: Twitter has witnessed significant transformations in recent years, and an article titled “How Donald Trump and Elon Musk Killed Twitter,” written by Marty Baron and Zoe Schiffer, sheds light on the critical changes. This thought-provoking piece caught my attention due to its exploration of how two influential figures impacted the platform. Below I summarize the main points, providing additional context based on my understanding of the topic.

Summary: The article highlights how Donald Trump’s and Elon Musk’s actions on Twitter played a crucial role in reshaping the platform. Trump, as the former U.S. president, effectively harnessed Twitter, using it as his direct megaphone. His recurring controversial statements and unpredictable use of the platform turned his account into a polarizing force on Twitter.

Elon Musk, on the other hand, exerted his influence through more subtle means. Frequently engaging with his followers, Musk utilized Twitter for both personal expression and as a platform to promote his various ventures. With his vast following, he brought increased attention and scrutiny to the platform.

These two prominent figures effectively exposed some of Twitter’s inherent weaknesses. The platform’s struggle to effectively moderate content and address issues of misinformation were magnified when they amplified controversial or false claims. Twitter faced challenges responding to the demands, pressures, and criticisms that came along with the increased visibility Trump and Musk brought.

Additional Information: It’s important to note that Twitter’s evolving role as a news source and a platform for public discourse has made it a target for various stakeholders. The article further underlines the significance of the role played by public figures in shaping and influencing the online environment.

Conclusion: The influential actions of Donald Trump and Elon Musk on Twitter have had a lasting impact, both positive and negative, on the platform. Their presence not only exposed the limitations of content moderation and misinformation control but also highlighted the increasing importance of addressing these issues in the digital era. As Twitter continues to evolve, understanding the impact of influential figures becomes vital for maintaining the platform’s integrity and credibility. Ultimately, this article prompts us to reflect on the power dynamics at play within social media platforms and the need for responsible use and regulation.