US firms leverage American law against foreign regulations

Social media companies based in the U.S. often challenge the laws of other countries while insisting on their own legal protections. Platforms like X, formerly known as Twitter, have millions of users worldwide, each subject to different national laws. However, U.S. tech firms frequently resist foreign regulations intended to control issues such as disinformation and online harm. A recent example of this conflict occurred in February 2025, when the Trump Media & Technology Group and Rumble filed a lawsuit against Brazilian Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes. They sought to overturn his orders to suspend accounts linked to disinformation in Brazil. U.S. courts have sided with the companies, asserting that as long as they operate in the U.S., they fall under U.S. free speech protections. This legal battle centers around Allan dos Santos, a Brazilian activist accused of spreading disinformation but living in the U.S. after fleeing Brazil. The companies argue that Brazil's actions against him are censorship, attempting to portray U.S. free speech rights as applicable across borders. The trend shows a shift from political lobbying to using U.S. courts to resist foreign regulation, particularly regarding social media accountability. Tech companies have a history of opposing tighter laws in Brazil, often framing them as threats to free speech. The lawsuit highlights an emerging conflict between U.S. free speech principles and foreign regulatory efforts. Many countries, including Brazil and members of the EU, approach speech regulation differently, seeing a balance between free expression and other rights. This legal showdown could influence how digital platforms are regulated worldwide. As countries develop stricter regulations, the actions of U.S. tech firms will play a pivotal role in establishing the future of digital governance and corporate influence in global politics.