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Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo calls X ‘gigantic global sewer’

By Nithya Bose in US business news, posted November 29, 2023

Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo has quit using X, calling it a "gigantic global sewer" marred by disinformation, hatred, anti-Semitism, and racism.

In a recent announcement on X, she accused the social media giant and its owner, Elon Musk, of intentionally aggravating tensions and conflicts.

While not explicitly naming Musk, Hidalgo's departure comes after a controversy where dozens of advertisers suspended campaigns on X.

It was after Musk was accused of endorsing an anti-Semitic conspiracy theory.

The repercussions could see the platform lose up to $75 million in ad revenue by year-end.

Musk denies any anti-Semitic sentiments and disinformation support and recently made efforts to mend relations by visiting Israel.

He met with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who took him to an Israeli kibbutz where dozens of people were killed during the Hamas terrorist attack on October 7.

Musk also scheduled discussions with President Isaac Herzog on combating online anti-Semitism.

Additionally, an understanding was reached for deploying Starlink, Musk's satellite internet service, in Gaza for aid agencies during cellular and internet blackouts.

Hidalgo's departure was accompanied by a scathing critique of X's evolution from a platform for free information to one where algorithms fuel attacks on people engaging in peaceful political debate.

She highlighted a report by X ranking France as the leading European country for posts containing "violent and illegal content."

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X did not respond to requests for comment, and Twitter's press office issued an automated response.

As a prominent environmental advocate, Hidalgo has faced backlash on X for policies.

Her plans include closing major streets in Paris to cars in favor of bikes and freeway speed limits.

She cited a flood of misinformation from fossil fuel proponents.

"I refuse to endorse this evil scheme”

Earlier scrutiny on X, formerly known as Twitter, centered around Hidalgo's extended stay in Tahiti, prompting calls for her resignation.

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She wrote: “We need more than ever to keep real democracy alive.

“Twitter hinders debate, the quest for truth, and the serene and constructive dialogue needed between human beings. I refuse to endorse this evil scheme.”

Hidalgo invited followers to join her on other social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Bluesky, “in which respectful exchanges can still take place.”

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