Americanswers... on 5 Live! Who controls Donald Trump's Truth Social account?

6 snips

Jun 2, 2025

The discussion kicks off with the intriguing dynamics of Donald Trump's Truth Social account—who really controls it? Next, the podcast dives into the fallout from Trump's funding cuts at Ivy League universities and the potential brain drain it could cause in the U.S. The analysis also touches on the ongoing evolution of online political behaviors and influences, particularly surrounding key figures like Elon Musk. Additionally, the hosts tackle the intersection of social media, legal battles, and the implications for future political landscapes.

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ANECDOTE

Young Americans Learn Gun Safety Early

Many young people in rural and urban America learn to use firearms safely from a young age, often at gun ranges.
In Virginia, for example, children as young as seven can shoot for free at NRA ranges on Fridays.

INSIGHT

Ivy League Funding Cuts and Brain Drain

Ivy League funding cuts may not cause a major brain drain due to other top universities and financial strength.
Rich endowments and high salaries help retain top academics despite political or funding pressures.

INSIGHT

Trump's Truth Social Posting Dynamics

Donald Trump uses Truth Social posts and televised statements to express the same messages broadly.
Posts vary between him personally writing, dictating, or reposting content to stir follower engagement.

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Donald Trump founded Truth Social in 2022 after he was banned from major social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter. But is the president the sole user of his account, and are there any “tells” for when someone else has posted on his account?

We also answer your questions about whether funding cuts in the latest instalment of Donald Trump’s war with Harvard could lead to a brain drain in the US.

And, what next for DOGE after Elon Musk officially left the White House on Friday?

Justin, Sarah and Marianna join Matt Chorley for another instalment of Americanswers…

HOSTS: • Matt Chorley, 5 Live Presenter • Justin Webb, Radio 4 presenter • Sarah Smith, North America editor • Marianna Spring, Social Media Investigations Senior Correspondent

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This episode was made by Rufus Gray and Grace Reeve. The technical producer was Phil Bull. The series producer is Purvee Pattni. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

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