Since buying X (formerly Twitter) in 2021, Elon Musk has positioned himself as a defender of free speech, often rolling back content moderation rules. He’s allowed more controversial voices to be heard, claiming it’s all about protecting free speech. But when the criticism turns personal, Musk’s commitment to “free speech” seems to have its limits—especially when those voices are calling him out.
The tech billionaire-turned-MAGA fan is once again stirring controversy, this time defending his decision to demonetize accounts that criticize him, all while maintaining his stance as a “free speech” absolutist. Musk argued that he’s not violating free speech, claiming in a post on Wednesday: “The First Amendment is protection for ‘free speech,’ not ‘paid speech,’ ffs.”
Here’s the kicker: Musk has been paying accounts that are critical of Democrats for months, but when it comes to criticism directed at him, the gloves come off. Several prominent figures who’ve spoken out against Musk have seen their monetization features revoked, including hard-right figures like Laura Loomer and even far-right white supremacist Nick Fuentes.
The drama began when some conservative users took issue with Musk’s support for the H-1B visa program, which allows tech companies to bring in foreign workers for specialized roles. Musk has long argued that this program is necessary due to a shortage of qualified U.S.-born engineers. But some right-wing voices, especially those in Trump’s camp, pushed back, arguing the program undercuts American workers. When these critics aired their frustrations, they were promptly demonetized on X.
Musk’s defense of the demonetization move boils down to a simple distinction: he’s all for free speech—as long as you’re not getting paid to use it to criticize him.
