Meta Employs Conservative Influencer to Tackle Woke AI


Meta is positioning itself at the forefront of the Big Tech resistance against “Woke AI,” unveiling a collaboration with conservative figure Robby Starbuck to guarantee its AI technologies remain devoid of “ideological bias.” Although Starbuck lacks AI expertise, he will guide Meta’s developers in mitigating political bias within their AI tools. This advisory position arises from a settlement between Meta and Starbuck, who pursued legal action against the company for $5 million after its AI chatbot incorrectly associated him with the January 6 Capitol riot. Starbuck seeks to promote “ethical” and “neutral” AI, having previously consulted the FCC on the removal of DEI programs. This initiative aligns with President Trump’s federal AI Action Plan that aims to challenge “Woke AI,” which conservatives claim advances leftist ideologies. Starbuck, a past music video director, is a notable conservative figure recognized for his opposition to diversity efforts and for expressing contentious opinions. Prior to the president’s directives, Meta had already abolished its DEI policies, with founder Mark Zuckerberg adjusting the company’s approach towards conservative ideals, including a $1 million contribution to the Trump campaign. Meta announced that collaborating with Starbuck has enhanced the precision of its AI and minimized bias.