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August 21, 2025
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Hackers Infiltrate Alleged North Korean Operative’s Computer, Leak Evidence of...
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August 21, 2025
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Ecosia Proposes Unusual Stewardship Model for Google Chrome
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August 21, 2025
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OpenAI Presses Meta for Evidence on Musk’s $97 Billion Takeover Bid
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August 15, 2025
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ChatGPT Mobile App Surpasses $2 Billion in Consumer Spending, Dominating Rivals
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Judge Blocks FTC Probe Into Media Matters, Citing First Amendment Concerns
August 16, 2025
into progressive watchdog Media Matters, ruling that the probe appeared retaliatory and threatened press freedoms.
The case stems from a 2023 Media Matters report showing ads from major brands appearing next to antisemitic and offensive content on X, the platform owned by Elon Musk. After advertisers withdrew, X sued Media Matters and accused advertisers of orchestrating a boycott. When Donald Trump returned to office in January, the FTC launched an inquiry into whether Media Matters colluded with advertisers.
Judge Sparkle L. Sooknanan, of the D.C. District Court, blocked the investigation Friday, writing that Media Matters’ reporting was “quintessential First Amendment activity” and that the FTC’s broad demands looked like “a retaliatory act.” She warned: “It should alarm all Americans when the Government retaliates against individuals or organizations for engaging in constitutionally protected public debate.”
The decision also cited concerns about FTC Chair Andrew Ferguson, who had previously called for investigations into progressive groups and hired staff with histories of criticizing Media Matters.
The FTC has not said whether it will appeal. Meanwhile, lawsuits and investigations tied to X have already strained advocacy and advertising groups — with Media Matters cutting staff and the World Federation of Advertisers shutting down a brand safety initiative.
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