Composers like Nicola Piovani, singers like Francesco Guccini and Piero Pelù, as well as the Social Democratic MEP Sandro Ruotolo have recently turned their backs on X.
“Musk is a threat to freedom“
“Elon Musk is a threat to democracy and freedom. In light of Musk’s extremely dangerous, neo-imperialist statements, I have decided to close my profile on X,” announced Pelù, frontman of the Italian rock band Litfiba. “Many tell me that I am crazy for making this decision, but I believe that it is fundamental today to show clear signs of civil resistance,” said the singer.
“It’s time to go,” commented the well-known Roman film music composer Nicola Piovani. EU parliamentarian Ruotolo sees the situation in a similar way. “I have decided to leave prevents me from continuing to be present on X,” emphasized Ruotolo.
Musk: “These judges have to go”
Even the doyen of Italian songwriters, Francesco Guccini, no longer wants to know anything about X (formerly Twitter). “Musk has ideas that are light years away from mine. I have no interest in communicating on a platform that helps manipulate political ideas. I don’t think anyone will miss me on X,” said Guccini.
Musk, who will be responsible for efficient governance under the future US administration under President Donald Trump, got involved on Tuesday in a dispute between the Italian judiciary and the right-wing government of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who is good friends with the richest man in the world is. “These judges have to go,” Musk wrote on
“Toxic media platform”
The reaction came promptly from Italian head of state Sergio Mattarella. “Italy is a great, democratic country and can take care of itself,” Mattarella wrote on Wednesday. Anyone who – like Musk – should take on an “important government function” in a friendly and allied state “must respect its sovereignty and cannot make it their business to give it instructions.”
The British newspaper “The Guardian” will also no longer post on the online platform in the future due to the role of X owner Elon Musk. “The US presidential election campaign has only underscored what we have long thought: that X is a toxic media platform and that its owner, Elon Musk, has been able to use its influence to influence political discourse,” the editorial team said.
The portal also promotes “often disturbing content” such as right-wing extremist conspiracy theories and racism, it said. Previously blocked user accounts of well-known right-wing extremists, misogynists and conspiracy theorists were released again under Musk. The newspaper also referred to EU criticism of the content standards on X since it was taken over by the tech billionaire.
What are the potential consequences of high-profile figures leaving X for the platform’s future?
**Interview with Social and Political Commentator on Elon Musk’s Controversial Influence**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today. There’s been a significant backlash against Elon Musk since he took over X (formerly Twitter). Notably, several prominent Italian figures, including musicians and a politician, have expressed their decision to leave the platform. What’s your take on this situation?
**Commentator:** Thank you for having me. It’s quite a pivotal moment we’re witnessing. When public figures like Francesco Guccini, Nicola Piovani, and Sandro Ruotolo publicly reject a platform, it highlights profound concerns about its impact on democracy and discourse. Their stance is rooted in a strong conviction that Musk’s influence has skewed the platform’s role in society.
**Interviewer:** In your opinion, what are some of the specific actions or statements from Musk that have triggered such a strong response from these individuals?
**Commentator:** Musk’s recent comments regarding the Italian judiciary and his push for “changing” the system reflect a disregard for national sovereignty. His statement, “These judges have to go,” is alarming to many. It can be interpreted as an overreach into a country’s judicial independence, which resonates negatively with those who value democratic principles.
**Interviewer:** There’s also mention of the British newspaper “The Guardian” withdrawing from the platform, criticizing it as a “toxic media platform.” What implications do you think this will have?
**Commentator:** The withdrawal of media outlets like “The Guardian” sets a precedent. When credible sources revert to avoiding platforms that don’t uphold journalistic integrity, it raises questions about what users are left with. It could lead to a significantly fragmented media landscape where misinformation flourishes, especially with the rising influence of far-right rhetoric and extremist narratives on X.
**Interviewer:** Given these developments, what do you think the future holds for X under Musk’s leadership?
**Commentator:** The path forward is indeed uncertain. Musk’s approach to governance on the platform may continue to alienate not only high-profile users but also the general public, which could result in declining user engagement and trust. Influential figures stepping away indicates a growing resistance against what they see as a toxic environment. It’s a complex scenario where the ethical implications of social media ownership and influence are at the forefront.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for your insights and analysis on this rapidly evolving situation. It seems that the intersection of technology, media, and democratic values is more relevant now than ever.
**Commentator:** Absolutely, and it’s crucial that we engage in these discussions to advocate for a healthier media landscape moving forward. Thank you for having me.