Prominent MAGA Voices on X Operate From Outside the U.S., Data Shows
A new tool mapping the locations of X (formerly Twitter) users reveals a significant number of prominent figures aligned with the “Make America Great Again” (MAGA) movement are based outside the United States, raising questions about foreign influence in american political discourse. The analysis, conducted by the Center for Countering Digital Hate (CCDH), identified the geographic locations of over 100 influential accounts frequently amplifying pro-Trump and conservative content.
The CCDH tool found that at least 22% of these accounts are operated from outside the U.S., including locations in countries like the United Kingdom, Romania, and Vietnam. This revelation comes as concerns mount regarding the potential for coordinated disinformation campaigns and foreign interference in upcoming U.S. elections. While operating from abroad is not inherently illegal, experts warn it could indicate attempts to circumvent platform rules, obscure origins of political messaging, and potentially amplify divisive content aimed at influencing the American electorate.
The CCDH report highlights several high-profile accounts with ample followings that are geolocated outside the U.S.These include accounts that regularly share pro-Trump content, attack political opponents, and promote conspiracy theories. The tool utilizes a combination of publicly available data,including profile information,posting patterns,and network analysis,to estimate user locations.
“This isn’t about where people are from, it’s about where they are operating from,” said Callum Hood, head of research at CCDH.”The fact that so many influential MAGA accounts are based outside the U.S. raises serious questions about the authenticity of the online conversation and the potential for foreign actors to manipulate it.”
X owner Elon Musk has previously stated the platform is committed to free speech, but critics argue this approach has allowed disinformation and harmful content to flourish.The company has not yet responded to requests for comment on the CCDH findings. The revelation adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing debate about social media’s role in shaping political narratives and the challenges of safeguarding democratic processes in the digital age. The CCDH plans to continue monitoring the platform and providing updates on its findings.
