The State Department’s Global Engagement Center (GEC), known for its controversial role in silencing Americans, has finally shut down after Congress decided to pull its $61 million funding. This closure marks a significant victory for free speech and accountability, addressing long-standing concerns about government overreach.
The GEC, established to counter foreign disinformation, faced growing criticism for overstepping its bounds and targeting American citizens. High-profile figures like Elon Musk labeled the GEC as the “worst offender” in government censorship, accusing it of flagging accounts for posts about COVID-19 origins and other sensitive topics. Musk’s condemnation highlighted how the GEC’s actions extended beyond its original mandate, impacting free speech and the dissemination of information.
Legal battles further exposed the GEC’s dubious practices. Lawsuits revealed that the GEC targeted conservative media outlets, violating First Amendment rights by creating taxpayer-funded blacklists. These blacklists were used to censor and deplatform media outlets that were disfavored by the federal government. The lawsuits, filed by entities such as the Texas Attorney General, the Daily Wire, and the Federalist, emphasized the GEC’s role in a broader conspiracy to suppress dissenting voices.
Sources:
https://www.fox28spokane.com/us-agency-focused-on-foreign-disinformation-shuts-down/
https://www.yahoo.com/news/state-departments-global-engagement-center-155538059.html