The upcoming U.S. presidential election features Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump, both of whom have distinct stances on handling big tech companies, particularly social media platforms. Harris has garnered significant support within the Democratic Party, securing a majority of delegates and an endorsement from President Joe Biden.
The challenge for the next president will be to balance regulating these companies to satisfy lawmakers and users while also promoting free speech, privacy, and innovation.
Harris and Trump diverge on several key issues regarding social media and tech regulations. Harris has not indicated a stance on a potential TikTok ban, whereas Trump attempted to ban TikTok in 2020 but reversed his stance in 2024, influenced by political and financial connections.
On content moderation, Harris advocates for stricter regulations and transparency, seeking a collaborative approach between government and social media platforms. Trump has pushed for revising Section 230, criticizing social media for spreading “fake news” while using the platforms to share misinformation.
Kamala Harris
Addressing online harassment and hate speech, Harris supports stronger measures to hold platforms accountable, feeling current efforts are inadequate. Trump, on the other hand, emphasizes protecting free speech over imposing stricter measures against harassment.
When it comes to data privacy, Harris supports stronger privacy laws and user control over personal data, whereas Trump favors a lighter regulatory touch and has been less vocal on specific privacy issues.
In terms of antitrust enforcement, Harris is expected to continue Biden’s approach, promoting fair competition and preventing monopolies, and she has shown openness to considering the breakup of big tech companies.
Trump has scrutinized tech mergers and acquisitions aggressively in the past but is less focused on breaking up companies unless motivated by personal grievances, particularly regarding perceived unfair treatment by tech firms.
On AI regulation and election interference, Harris backs Biden’s executive order for greater AI oversight and stresses platform responsibility in preventing foreign election interference. Trump opposes Biden’s AI regulation order and has criticized social media platforms for alleged bias and interference in elections, threatening stricter regulations if they fail to prevent such interference.
Both candidates’ policies reflect their broader political philosophies and priorities regarding big tech’s role in society and governance.
