Growing Concerns Among Democrats Over Social Media Influence in Politics and Political Censorship

The influence of social media companies in politics and their alleged censorship of political viewpoints they disagree with are growing concerns among Americans, particularly Democrats, according to a recent Pew Research Center survey.

The survey, conducted among 10,133 U.S. adults from Feb. 7 to 11, 2024, revealed that a majority of Americans believe social media companies have too much power and influence in politics. This sentiment has increased from 72% in 2020 to 78% in the current survey. Democrats, in particular, have shown a notable rise in their concerns about social media’s political influence, with 74% now believing these companies have too much power, up from 63% in 2020.

Furthermore, the survey found that most Americans view social media’s impact on the country negatively, with 64% stating that these platforms have a mostly negative effect on the way things are going in the country today. Republicans are more likely to hold this view compared to Democrats, although a growing number of Democrats are also expressing concerns about the negative impact of social media.

When it comes to political censorship and bias in Big Tech, the survey revealed that a majority of Americans believe social media sites censor political viewpoints they disagree with. This sentiment has increased from 77% in 2022 to 83% in the current survey. Republicans are more likely than Democrats to believe that political censorship is likely occurring on social media platforms.

Overall, Americans are more inclined to think that major technology companies have a liberal bias over a conservative one. Republicans widely believe that these companies support liberal views, while Democrats are more divided in their opinions.

In terms of government regulation of technology companies, the survey found that a majority of Americans support more regulation of Big Tech companies. Democrats are more supportive of increased government oversight compared to Republicans, although the partisan gap on this issue has remained consistent over the years.

The survey results highlight the growing concerns among Americans about the influence of social media companies in politics and their perceived bias in censoring political viewpoints. As these sentiments continue to evolve, the debate over the role of social media in shaping political discourse is likely to intensify.