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Verified: On Thursday, Elon Musk sealed his on-again, off-again deal to buy Twitter. Now, the keys to one of the world’s most influential social media platforms are in his hands. But not everyone’s eager to see the “Chief Twit” spread his wings.
The Story
In just over 15 years, Twitter has amassed more than 230 million users — and became a top platform for prominent political leaders, business executives, journalists, and activists. It helped spark social movements (see: #BlackLivesMatter and #MeToo), provided real-time info on major news events, and changed the way the world communicates. For better…and for worse. Twitter has repeatedly come under fire for its handling of hate speech, misinformation, and disinformation (think: election lies, conspiracy theories). Which have continued to take hold despite the company’s efforts (think: labeling misleading tweets, banning accounts). Now, those measures could be seeing major changes.
Because of Musk?
You said it. The self-proclaimed “free speech absolutist” has already said that the site must be “warm and welcoming to all.” And that the company will create a “content moderation council” before making any changes. TBD what exactly that means. But many worry controversial figures (like former President Trump and Alex Jones) could ultimately return to the nest. And that Musk will peel back the platform’s moderation efforts — which critics have already said are not enough. That could lead to a rise in hate speech, extremism, and misinformation. And at a not-so-great time (read: the midterms are just over a week away). But those aren’t the only flags being raised.
What do you mean?
Musk is the latest example of the uber-rich buying, creating, or financing social media platforms. (See: Peter Thiel and Rumble. Trump and Truth Social. Perhaps even Kanye West and Parler.) In doing so, they’re all becoming political gatekeepers — at a time when social media has become even more influential for how the public gathers info about elections and politicians. (Worth noting: At least 69 million people have reportedly joined alternative social media sites, which 6% of Americans consider a go-to source for news. But Twitter is at least three times the size of that.) So it’s got many concerned about the profound effects this ‘boys club’ could have on politics and society.
theSkimm
While it’s still unclear what Twitter will look like under Elon Musk, even the smallest change could have major implications. And prove that billionaires really do run the world.
Bookmark’d
Here’s a look at the reads we’ve saved, texted, and emailed to our friends…
The Mysterious Patient in Room 23…she came from one of Europe’s wealthiest families, then became a woman without a trace. Now, her fate may hang in the hands of one person.
What My Mom Taught Me About Sex…hint: it’s not what you think.
Stevie Case vs. the World…two decades after the gaming industry’s first female superstar said ‘game over,’ she’s finally opening up about the misogyny, harassment, and sexism she faced IRL.
Downtime
Downtime doesn’t have to mean doing nothing. Here’s one idea for making the most of your weekend.
Halloween’s just around the corner. But if you haven’t gotten into the scary spirit just yet, have no fear. We’ve rounded up a few, well, fab-boo-lous ways to help you embrace the most spooktacular time of the year:
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Have a scary movie night. Break out the stash of extra candy, turn off all the lights, and put on something that’ll scare you silly. That could be a classic (think: “Rosemary’s Baby,” “Psycho,” or “The Shining”). It could be one of the recent reboots (think: “Scream” or “Halloween Ends”). Or, if you’re someone who doesn’t like horror movies, it could be something more suspenseful (think: “Get Out” or “Us”). Either way, it’s best to have a security blanket handy.
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Set the stage for a frighteningly good time. All you need are a few festive decorations — both indoors and outdoors. Add drama to your dining table with black candles. Hang a creepy wreath on your door. And pick up a few pumpkins, which you can paint for a more modern look or carve for something more traditional. (Pro tip: Make sure to save the seeds for a well-deserved treat.)
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Pull together some last-minute costumes. You could brave the Spirit Halloween crowds and chaos — and score some of our fave costumes for kiddos and furry friends. Or you could easily DIY a prize-winning costume for yourself (see: the smart cookie and raining men ideas), your little ones (see: the hot air balloon or cardboard train costumes), and your pet (see: the cupcake).
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Dive into a few spooky stories. If you think there’s nothing better than a thrilling page-turner, check out these reads: “Jackal,” in which a young girl goes missing in her Rust Belt town. “The House Across the Lake,” about an actress whose life starts to spiral following the death of her husband. And “When No One Is Watching,” which follows a woman looking into the gentrification of her Brooklyn neighborhood.
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Eat, drink, and be scary. Make a ‘scare-cuterie’ board. While you’re at it, whip up eyeball pasta, ‘ghoul’-ash, and monster wraps. And don’t forget to stock up on some Halloween candy before the big night. Including treats for everyone.