Meta's Contribution Raises Eyebrows

Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook, has made a $1 million donation to U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's inaugural fund, according to a spokesperson who confirmed the news to Reuters via email. This move has drawn attention as it contrasts with the past stance of CEO Mark Zuckerberg, who had previously avoided endorsing political candidates.

Zuckerberg's Diplomatic Approach

Zuckerberg, who did not endorse either Trump or Joe Biden during the election, has recently sought to establish a positive relationship with the president-elect. His meeting with Trump in late November, as reported by the New York Times, is seen as part of this effort. Despite their strained relationship post-2020 election, marked by Trump's accusations of Meta suppressing content detrimental to Biden, Zuckerberg seems to be extending an olive branch.

Meta's Actions Under Scrutiny

The company's decision to donate to Trump's fund is particularly noteworthy given Meta's suspension of Trump's Facebook and Instagram accounts for two years following the January 2021 Capitol riots. This latest action by Meta raises questions about the company's political strategies and its relationship with the incoming administration.