MEAWW.COM / NEWS / POLITICS

Lauren Boebert slams advertisers for pulling ads from X, but Internet finds a big hole in her argument

Several prominent firms like Apple, Disney, and IBM suspended their ads on X amid an alleged antisemitism uproar stemming from the platform

WASHINGTON, DC: Republican Representative Lauren Boebert has aimed at "woke" advertisers for their decision to halt ads on X (formerly Twitter) in response to controversial and alleged antisemitic tweets from owner Elon Musk.

Boebert's outcry against what she views as an attack on free speech has ignited a passionate online debate.

However, Internet users did not hold back and clarified free speech for Boebert.

On November 18, Boebert took to X to voice her concern, "Large, mostly woke, advertisers are trying once again to stage a boycott on X advertising. Why is it that free speech is always under attack in the country built upon it?"

Elon Musk vows legal battle against Media Matters for 'attacking' X

Several prominent firms like Apple, Disney, and IBM reportedly suspended their ads on X amid an alleged "antisemitism uproar" stemming from the platform.

This move came after Elon Musk allegedly "amplified an antisemitic trope on the platform," prompting a widespread backlash, as per BBC.

The boycott reportedly gained momentum following a US group's investigation that identified ads alongside alleged pro-Nazi content on X.

Despite accusations, Musk denied his post was antisemitic and has issued threats of legal action regarding the advertising investigation.

Left-leaning advocacy group Media Matters for America claimed to have identified ads purchased by prominent firms allegedly appearing alongside posts featuring Hitler quotes, Nazi praise, and Holocaust denial on X.

A spokesperson for X stated to the BBC that the company does not intentionally place brands "next to this kind of content" and is committed to "combating antisemitism."

Musk announced on Saturday that X would file a "thermonuclear lawsuit" against Media Matters "the split second court opens on Monday."

He accused the group of misrepresenting X's user experience to "undermine freedom of speech and mislead advertisers."

However, the backlash comes after Musk responded to a post on November 15, sharing a conspiracy theory accusing Jewish communities of promoting hatred against White people, calling it the "actual truth," as per BBC.

Musk later clarified that his comments were not at all directed at the Jewish community but at groups like the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) and other unspecified parties.

Internet doesn't agree with Lauren Boebert's defense of free speech

Amid Boebert's advocacy for free speech, users on X voiced varying opinions, underscoring the nuanced nature of free speech and its associated consequences.

One user on X wrote, "Choosing not to buy ads is considered free speech. Advertisers are not obligated to advertise on X or any platform. If the owner of X expressing his views is considered free speech, the decision of advertisers to boycott is also considered free speech."

While another user articulated a different perspective, "Lauren Boebert does not appear to understand that free speech can sometimes come with consequences. Yes, you can say what you want. And yes, people can shun you for what you say, such as advertisers."

A third user highlighted the rights of corporations in the context of free speech, "Because freedom of speech doesn't come without consequences. Corporations are free to do what they think is in their own best interest. Just like you're free to boycott them and not buy their products. At least Apple hasn't pulled the X app yet so you've got that going for you."

Another user emphasized the choice to distance oneself from offensive content, "Lauren, even advertising companies and board of directors get to practice free speech. Also, if someone does not like something done or said they have a right to remove themselves from that which they find offensive. What part of free speech do you not understand?"

Furthermore, a user highlighted the aspect of entitlement with advertising revenue, "Companies aren’t entitled to advertising revenue, Lauren. If the advertisers don’t want to be associated with this platform because of the actions of the company, that is them exercising their first amendment rights."