It Always Gets Dumber: Elon Sues the Ad Coalition He Just Rejoined

Elon Musk has initiated a lawsuit against the Global Alliance for Responsible Media (GARM) and its advertising partners, claiming they are engaging in illegal antitrust behavior by discouraging advertisers from promoting on ExTwitter. This legal action comes shortly after ExTwitter rejoined GARM, an organization formed to help advertisers avoid placing ads next to harmful content. Musk's lawsuit alleges that GARM's influence has led to a boycott of ExTwitter, which he argues violates the rights of the platform and its users. The complaint suggests that GARM is coercing advertisers, despite evidence indicating that GARM merely provides guidelines and that advertisers retain the discretion to choose where to place their ads. Musk's history of antagonizing advertisers, including telling them to "go fuck themselves," has contributed to their reluctance to spend on ExTwitter. The lawsuit raises questions about the nature of free speech and the rights of advertisers to withdraw their support from platforms they deem unsafe. Critics argue that Musk's claims lack legal grounding, particularly as economic boycotts are generally protected under the First Amendment. The situation reflects ongoing tensions between Musk's vision for ExTwitter and the realities of brand safety in advertising.

- Elon Musk is suing GARM for allegedly pressuring advertisers not to promote on ExTwitter.

- The lawsuit follows ExTwitter's recent rejoining of GARM, which aims to establish brand safety standards.

- Musk's previous comments to advertisers have contributed to their hesitance to advertise on the platform.

- Critics argue that the lawsuit lacks legal merit, as economic boycotts are typically protected under the First Amendment.

- The case highlights the conflict between Musk's free speech claims and advertisers' rights to choose where to place their ads.