Appeared in Florida Mar-a-Lago with Bodyguards
Trump's Facebook Account Suspended During Capitol Riot
Relations Thaw After Trump Attack in July
Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Meta Platforms and creator of Facebook, reportedly visited Donald Trump, the President-elect of the United States, expressing his desire to participate in the reforms of the upcoming administration.
Steven Miller, former senior advisor to the White House and newly appointed Deputy Chief of Staff for the next administration, appeared on Fox News on the 27th (local time) and confirmed that "Zuckerberg clearly expressed his support for the reform movement led by Trump and his desire to be part of the wave of change happening across the United States and around the world," revealing that the two met at Trump's Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida.
Former advisor Miller explained, "Like many corporate leaders, Zuckerberg understands well that Trump is the agent of change and prosperity," adding, "Although he has his own interests and agenda, he clearly expressed his intention to support the national renewal of the United States under Trump's leadership." Politico reported, citing sources, that Zuckerberg appeared at Mar-a-Lago accompanied by a large security detail and staff.
A Meta spokesperson also stated, "Zuckerberg had dinner with Trump and expressed gratitude for the invitation from those who will be part of the new administration," noting, "This is an important time for the future innovation of America."
Known as a longtime supporter of the Democratic Party, Zuckerberg had an uneasy relationship with Trump, including blocking Trump’s Facebook account after the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot incited by Trump supporters. However, after the assassination attempt on Trump in July, the two began to rapidly restore their relationship through two phone calls.
A few days after the attack, Zuckerberg told Bloomberg News, "Seeing Trump get shot in the face and still stand up, pumping his fist in the air with the American flag waving, was one of the coolest moments I have ever witnessed," adding, "It’s not easy for Americans to watch that without feeling emotional. That’s why many people like him." Right after Trump’s election victory was confirmed, Zuckerberg called it a "decisive victory" and said, "I look forward to working with the Trump administration."
Zuckerberg’s recent moves are interpreted as being influenced by the presence of Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla. After the election, Musk emerged as one of Trump’s closest allies, exerting influence over various policies and appointments. Observing this, Zuckerberg, who has had various conflicts with Musk, felt the need to actively enter Trump’s sphere of influence. Zuckerberg and Musk are known rivals competing for dominance in social networking services (SNS), and at one point, even a physical confrontation ("hyun-pi") was rumored between them.
Meanwhile, Zuckerberg announced earlier this month that the monthly active users (MAU) of 'Threads' reached 275 million as of the third quarter. This represents a 175% increase compared to a year ago, with 100 million new users added in just three months from 175 million in the second quarter. Musk’s platform X (formerly Twitter) is estimated to have about 310 million MAU. Threads, a text-based SNS launched last July targeting X, gained explosive popularity, surpassing 100 million users within five days of its launch.
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