Donald Trump Vows to Prosecute Google if Re-elected in 2024
Trump's Statements on Google
Speaking to an audience of supporters during an event in Michigan, Donald Trump specifically targeted Google, accusing the tech giant of manipulating information and curbing free speech. “If I get back into office, we’re going to hold Google accountable,” Trump declared. “They’ve been suppressing voices and skewing search results against conservatives. We can't allow these companies to undermine democracy.”
Trump’s criticisms of Google are part of a broader narrative he has often pushed, claiming that major tech firms have an anti-conservative bias. He further suggested that these companies, including Google, are overly cozy with certain political factions, something he believes is harmful to a free and fair democracy.
“We have to break their monopoly on information,” Trump emphasized, proposing stricter regulations and a potentially significant investigation by the Department of Justice (DOJ). The former president has historically argued that tech companies wield too much power, particularly over the flow of information during critical moments like elections.
Accusations of Bias
Trump’s remarks reflect an argument he has made repeatedly since his 2016 campaign. In the past, he has accused Google of employing algorithms that systematically diminish the reach of conservative news outlets and viewpoints. A study from the Media Research Center, a conservative-leaning think tank, was cited in his speech. This study alleged that Google manipulates its search algorithms in a way that negatively impacts conservative content.
However, Google has denied any intentional bias. In a statement to Reuters, a Google spokesperson said, "Our products are designed to work for everyone, regardless of political viewpoints. We have strict policies against politically biased results, and we enforce these policies rigorously to ensure a fair search experience.”
The Legal Feasibility
The prospect of prosecuting Google would face significant legal and procedural hurdles. Prosecuting a private company for bias would require a clear demonstration of intentional and unlawful actions that violate existing antitrust laws or other federal regulations. In recent years, bipartisan discussions have led to numerous legislative hearings on tech monopolies, though definitive legal action has been slow to materialize.
Some experts have expressed skepticism about Trump's plan. Jessica Levinson, a law professor at Loyola Law School, told NBC News, "While there is growing concern over the influence of major tech companies, prosecuting Google would be incredibly complex. Without clear evidence of wrongdoing, such an action would likely struggle in court."
Levinson also pointed out that breaking up or prosecuting Google could require new legislation or an expanded interpretation of existing antitrust laws. "Current laws don't easily apply to issues like search result bias," she added.
Trump’s remarks highlight a significant potential policy shift, and underscore how tech regulation is likely to remain a contentious issue in upcoming elections. Other Republican figures, including Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, have also expressed an interest in limiting the power of big tech firms. In contrast, Democrats have often focused more on privacy concerns, misinformation, and the spread of hate speech.
Public opinion regarding tech companies has become increasingly polarized. A Pew Research Center survey from 2021 found that a majority of Republicans believed that social media companies have a negative effect on the way things are going in the country, particularly in regard to political information. Trump’s comments about prosecuting Google are therefore seen as a strategic move to align with these sentiments.
A Broader Debate
Trump’s promise to prosecute Google, while grabbing headlines, is part of a larger debate about the role of major technology companies in American society. The balance between free enterprise, freedom of speech, and accountability is still being negotiated by lawmakers, the judiciary, and the American public.
As the 2024 election approaches, it's clear that big tech will remain a focal point of political discussion, with Trump vowing to take aggressive action if he re-enters the White House. Whether or not such a prosecution materializes, the topic underscores the increasing tension between technology, governance, and public opinion in an ever-connected world.
*These are views based on facts and without any political or corporate affiliation. Readers are advised to conduct their fact check.
