Meta Appoints Robby Starbuck to Address AI Bias Amid Legal Settlement
Meta has enlisted conservative activist Robby Starbuck as an advisor to combat “ideological and political bias” in its AI chatbot, following a settlement from a lawsuit he filed against the company, reports 24brussels. Starbuck’s lawsuit contended that Meta AI falsely linked him to the January 6th Capitol riot.
Starbuck, known for pressuring corporations to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, has previously influenced firms such as Tractor Supply and Harley-Davidson to abandon their DEI initiatives. He uncovered the AI’s misrepresentation after a dealer from Harley-Davidson shared a screenshot indicating his supposed association with the Capitol breach and QAnon.
This new advisory role occurs in the context of a push to align Meta’s AI systems with more conservative frameworks, particularly following President Donald Trump’s executive order to reduce perceived “woke” biases in AI technologies. “Since engaging on these important issues with Robby, Meta has made tremendous strides to improve the accuracy of Meta AI and mitigate ideological and political bias,” stated both Starbuck and Meta in response to inquiries.
During an interview with CNBC, Starbuck avoided disclosing whether the settlement included direct financial compensation. He emphasized that his involvement could set a precedent for the tech industry regarding election integrity and political neutrality. Earlier this year, Meta had already settled a separate lawsuit with Trump for $25 million concerning account suspensions.
Legal challenges surrounding AI defamation continue to emerge. Other notable cases include conservative radio host Mark Walters, who sued OpenAI for defamation after falsely implicating him in misconduct related to a nonprofit organization. A judge ruled in OpenAI’s favor, dismissing Walters’ claims.
