Brussels investigates TikTok's role in Romanian presidential election amid claims of algorithm influence

Brussels is examining TikTok's potential influence on the recent Romanian presidential elections. The rise of populist candidate Călin Georgescu has sparked debate over whether TikTok's algorithms played a role, with rival candidate Elena Lasconi alleging Russian bot activity. TikTok has denied these claims, calling them misleading. Influencer Soundous Boualam defended the platform, suggesting that its popularity stems from users effectively engaging with its content. Concerns were raised about the spread of misinformation and the need for more progressive politicians to utilize social media. The discussion also touched on changes at X, formerly Twitter, since Elon Musk's acquisition. Some pro-European users are leaving, which may allow far-right populists to gain more visibility, raising worries about echo chambers and misinformation.