Michael Schellenberger

Rank 39 of 47

Score -94

5. “This case is largely about painting Twitter as a dangerous actor in the press.”

Macron’s request for Dorsey’s number appears to be linked with the simultaneous launch of a lawsuit by four French government-linked NGOs against Twitter.

“We were sued back in the spring by

9/3/2025, 3:00:20 PM

In reply to:

Michael Shellenberger

@shellenberger

151d

4. CONTEXT: Escalating lawfare and censorship under Macron’s presidency

France has long presented itself as the cradle of modern democratic ideals, born of the Revolution of 1789 and enshrined in the motto “Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité.” In reality, few Western governments have

Michael Shellenberger

@shellenberger

151d

3. “Macron only sends texts to people he is close to and works frequently with…”

The first reply came from Twitter's Global Vice President of Public Affairs, who copied Vijaya Gadde, one of the platform's chief censors.

This Global Vice President of Public Affairs noted, “I

Michael Shellenberger

@shellenberger

151d

2. “President Macron wants to text Jack”

On October 14, 2020, Twitter’s Public Policy Director for France and Russia wrote, “President Macron's team has been asking me (again!) Jack's number because the President wants to text him some supporting words re our new policies and

Michael Shellenberger

@shellenberger

151d

🚨TWITTER FILES – FRANCE

At this moment, the Trump administration is negotiating with the EU over final obstacles to a trade deal, one of which is European censorship of US social media platforms.

Many analysts believe the massive size of the EU will lead US social media firms

The statement and accompanying emails discuss the legal and political challenges Twitter faces in France, particularly regarding hate speech and content moderation. It highlights the tension between Twitter and the French government, as well as the involvement of NGOs in legal actions against the platform. The mention of President Macron's interest in communicating with Twitter's leadership adds a layer of political complexity.

Principle 1:
I will strive to do no harm with my words and actions.
The statement aims to inform about the legal and political situation without causing harm, though it does highlight potential reputational risks for Twitter. [+1]
Principle 2:
I will respect the privacy and dignity of others and will not engage in cyberbullying, harassment, or hate speech.
The statement respects privacy by redacting personal information and focuses on institutional actions rather than personal attacks. [+1]
Principle 3:
I will use my words and actions to promote understanding, empathy, and compassion.
The statement provides context for understanding the legal and political dynamics, promoting awareness of the issues at hand. [+1]
Principle 4:
I will engage in constructive criticism and dialogue with those in disagreement and will not engage in personal attacks or ad hominem arguments.
The statement refrains from personal attacks and focuses on the broader legal and political context, engaging in constructive dialogue. [+1]