Facebook has often shied away from any confrontation with President Trump over his rhetoric and use of the platform, but the promotion of vote by mail is likely to set up a clash with the president. Mr. Trump routinely condemns voting by mail, falsely labeling it as corrupt, in a relentless attempt to politicize the method. “It really was not a political decision, to be honest,” said Emily Dalton Smith, the head of social impact at Facebook. “Supporting vote by mail is really about making sure that people have the information and tools they need to participate in elections, make their voices heard, hold our leaders accountable. Twitter is also planning new tools, policies and voting resources over the next month that will help users find information on how to vote during the coronavirus pandemic, including promoting mail and alternative early voting options.

Source: New York Times August 13, 2020 07:00 UTC