Elon Musk's social media platform, previously known as Twitter and now referred to as X, declared on Thursday that it would provide legal assistance to an Illinois university student facing disciplinary measures over posts made on the platform.
Musk, a billionaire and self-proclaimed "free speech absolutist," had pledged in August that X would shoulder the legal expenses for users who were unjustly penalized by employers due to their posts on X.
In line with his commitment, Musk confirmed the legal support for the student, stating on X, "We will do whatever it takes to support your right to free speech!" X News Daily, an account on the platform, noted that this case represents the "first known example so far of X paying legal fees to support users' free speech."
The student, Juan David Campolargo, enrolled at the University of Illinois, was accused in early November of violating the university's code of conduct. He had posted on X, inaccurately depicting a private conference event as an open gathering offering free food, as per documents obtained by the Financial Times.
The post has put Campolargo at risk of disciplinary action, including potential eviction from campus housing, as reported by the Financial Times. Lawyers from Schaerr Jaffe, representing Campolargo, confirmed they are assisting the student "with the support of X-Corp."
On November 14, the lawyers contended in a letter that the University of Illinois could face "freedom of speech" violations if they did not "reverse the preliminary finding" against Campolargo. The letter, as reported by the Financial Times, states, "Should the University uphold and punish Mr Campolargo for his September 30, 2023 posts, Mr Campolargo would have a claim against the University for violation of his First Amendment rights."
Musk's promise to cover the legal costs for his users is part of his broader effort to combat cancel culture. In August, he declared, "If you were unfairly treated by your employer due to posting or liking something on this platform, we will fund your legal bill," adding that there would be "no limit."
Musk further stated that the lawsuits would be "extremely loud" and would also address companies' Boards of Directors. In April 2022, Musk, also the CEO of SpaceX and Tesla, acquired Twitter for a staggering $44 billion. He stated that his motivation for the purchase was to ensure the continued existence of "free speech" in America, referring to the First Amendment as "the bedrock of a functioning democracy."
Login