Bad Faith [UNLOCKED] Episode 257 - Document Review (w/ Matt Taibbi)
Sep 18, 2025
In this engaging conversation, investigative journalist Matt Taibbi delves into the complexities of the Twitter Files and digital censorship. He discusses the role of state-funded NGOs in influencing online moderation and the challenges of understanding biases within Twitter's content management. Taibbi also evaluates Elon Musk's involvement, questioning the authenticity and limitations of the documents shared with journalists. The discussion highlights the need for deeper inquiries into media biases, making it a captivating exploration of modern journalism.
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State-Funded Disinformation Network
- The Twitter Files revealed a sprawling ecosystem of state-funded "disinformation" labs interfacing with platforms.
- These hubs, like the Global Engagement Center, fund NGOs that send bulk moderation requests to companies like Twitter.
Bulk Lists Drive Platform Actions
- Agencies and affiliated NGOs sent bulk lists of accounts to platforms for review and suspension.
- Taibbi found examples where lists included journalists, military officials, and many false positives.
Platforms Defer To Intelligence Labels
- Twitter developed internal guidance to remove accounts labeled by U.S. intelligence as state-sponsored threats.
- Taibbi estimates platforms honored about 80–90% of domestic agency moderation requests.
