Meta restricts Trump's Facebook, Instagram accounts ahead of Republican National Convention

Trump’s account remained under tight rules and threat of suspension for minor infractions too
Republican presidential candidate and former US President Donald Trump gestures during a campaign rally in Green Bay, Wisconsin, US.— Reuters
Republican presidential candidate and former US President Donald Trump gestures during a campaign rally in Green Bay, Wisconsin, US.— Reuters 

Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, is set to allow former President Donald Trump to post again on its platforms after more than two years of restricted usage. This decision comes just in time for his substantial following as the Republican National Convention approaches.

Meta's president of global affairs, Nick Clegg, announced this decision in a blog post, stating that Meta wants to facilitate political expression and give the American people the opportunity to hear from presidential nominees on the same basis.

The previous restrictions were put in place due to extreme circumstances but have not been deemed necessary since. Trump's accounts were reinstated in January 2023.

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Trump's social media accounts were originally suspended after the events of January 6th, 2021. Although he was allowed back on all social media platforms in January 2023, his accounts remained under tighter rules and the threat of suspension for even minor infractions.

Now, Trump has begun posting regularly again on Facebook, sharing videos and attacks on President Joe Biden.

In terms of reach, Trump's accounts are highly influential. His posts usually garner substantial engagement, and his presence is seen as integral to his political campaigns. By removing these restrictions, Meta is allowing Trump to use social media for the penalty-free dissemination of information.