Multi-billionaire Elon Musk is throwing his proverbial toys out of the cot after filing a lawsuit against companies he says are “boycotting” X (formerly Twitter).
The lawsuit claims that the advertising boycott from numerous companies has cost the X owner “billions of dollars in revenue”. The claim targets companies such as Unilever, Mars and Orsted, Biz Community reported.
Taking to X, Elon said: “I strongly encourage any company who has been systematically boycotted by advertisers to file a lawsuit.
“There may also be criminal liability via the RICO Act.”
I strongly encourage any company who has been systematically boycotted by advertisers to file a lawsuit.
There may also be criminal liability via the RICO Act.
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) August 6, 2024
Elon has increasingly been criticised for stifling freedom of speech since taking over the social media company, with the latest being the spread of misinformation during the UK race riots.
In response, many companies have withdrawn their advertising from the company or just blankly refused to advertise on X. Musk has now accused the Global Alliance for Responsible Media (GARM) of conspiring in a manner that violated US antitrust laws.
Many online users shared their confused responses to Musk’s lawsuit.
“So, you are going to sue because companies decided to exercise their free speech by not advertising with Twitter because Twitter doesn’t support their values? Sounds a little fascist doesn’t it?” questioned an X user.
Another shared a previous post from Andrew Takes which for whatever reason wasn’t removed from the platform, and yet violated hate speech.
Perhaps if you didn’t allow posts like this you’d get more advertising? pic.twitter.com/oGZHhzIcZU
— David Leavitt 🎲🎮🧙♂️🌈 (@David_Leavitt) August 6, 2024
Elon’s only supporters appeared to be Republicans who encouraged him to move forward with the lawsuit.
WE ARE WITH YOU IN THIS FIGHT!! pic.twitter.com/KuGoVBcxo4
— TRUMP ARMY (@TRUMP_ARMY_) August 6, 2024
Hours later, Elon shared that he would be having a conversation with Donald Trump live on Spaces.
Entertainment guaranteed! https://t.co/5oR7YLVQr6
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) August 12, 2024
Words: Fame Frenzy