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. Given 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, was able to use its influence to influence political discourse,” said the editorial team.
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.
How does Sandro Ruotolo perceive Elon Musk’s impact on political discourse in Europe following his controversial comments about the Italian judiciary?
**Interview with Sandro Ruotolo: Composer, Politician, and Former X User**
**Interviewer:** Welcome, Sandro Ruotolo. Thank you for joining us today to discuss your recent decision to leave X, alongside other prominent figures.
**Ruotolo:** Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to be here.
**Interviewer:** You, along with composers like Nicola Piovani and singers such as Francesco Guccini and Piero Pelù, have made headlines by leaving X. What prompted you to make this decision?
**Ruotolo:** My decision stemmed from deep concerns about the platform’s current direction under Elon Musk’s ownership. Many believe that he poses a threat to democracy and freedom, as echoed by Piero Pelù. I found it increasingly difficult to engage authentically on a platform that seems to facilitate manipulation of political narratives.
**Interviewer:** Piero Pelù mentioned that this decision is a form of “civil resistance.” Do you see it in a similar light?
**Ruotolo:** Absolutely. It’s essential we take a stand against platforms that compromise democratic values. By leaving X, we signal that we refuse to support an environment that allows manipulation and the spread of extremist ideologies.
**Interviewer:** Given Musk’s recent comments regarding the Italian judiciary, how do you interpret his influence on the political discourse within Europe?
**Ruotolo:** Musk’s comments about our judiciary were alarming. They show a disregard for the sovereignty of nations, which is particularly concerning for a country like Italy. While he’s entitled to his opinions, when someone in his position interferes, it complicates our political landscape.
**Interviewer:** Francesco Guccini expressed a similar sentiment, claiming he doesn’t want to engage on a platform that he feels manipulates political ideas. How do you feel his departure reflects broader sentiments among public figures?
**Ruotolo:** Guccini’s stance resonates with a growing frustration among artists and politicians. We see our influence as public figures and want to ensure it’s used responsibly. Leaving X echoes a call for integrity in public discourse, which many of us are passionate about.
**Interviewer:** The Guardian also recently announced they would no longer post on X due to concerns over its content policies. How significant do you believe this trend will be moving forward?
**Ruotolo:** It highlights a critical moment for media accountability. If major outlets withdraw, it sets a precedent and may encourage others to follow suit. And that could pressure X to reconsider its direction and policies, especially concerning moderating harmful content.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for sharing your insights, Sandro. Last thoughts for our audience?
**Ruotolo:** It’s all about collective action. We must stand together to defend the principles of democracy and freedom, and sometimes, that means making difficult choices like leaving platforms that no longer align with those values.
**Interviewer:** Thank you again for your thoughts. It’s clear that the ongoing situation surrounding X has prompted important discussions about media responsibility and political integrity.