Mark Zuckerberg, the CEO of Meta, had a meeting with president-elect Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago on Wednesday evening.
Prior to a scheduled dinner, both leaders engaged in what The New York Times described as an afternoon meeting where they “largely exchanged pleasantries.” According to The Times, Zuckerberg had organized the encounter and traveled to Florida on Tuesday with the intention of thawing the previously strained relations between them.
A spokesperson for Meta verified the meeting took place.
“This is a crucial moment for the future of American Innovation,” they mentioned in a statement. “Mark appreciated the chance to accept President Trump’s dinner invitation and the opportunity to converse with members of his team regarding the incoming Administration.”
Stephen Miller, designated by Trump as deputy chief of staff, shared on Fox News that Zuckerberg “has been very transparent about his intention to support and be engaged in the changes we are witnessing across America and the world, particularly in this reform movement led by Donald Trump.”
Conservatives, including Trump himself, have long voiced their grievances over perceived censorship on Facebook. Just months prior, Trump accused Zuckerberg of “plotting against” him during the 2020 presidential campaign and warned that Zuckerberg would “spend the rest of his life in prison” if such actions were repeated.
Now seemingly identifying as a libertarian and having previously praised Trump, Zuckerberg appears to have heeded the call. In August, he sent a letter to Congress alleging that the Biden administration was pressuring his company to “censor” free speech, which delighted Republicans.
