Meta China investigation intensifies as senators respond to whistleblower claims from ex-executive Sarah Wynn-Williams.
Speaking before the Senate Judiciary subcommittee on crime and terrorism, Wynn-Williams accused Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg of compromising American values and national security in pursuit of profit from China’s vast market. The hearing prompted an angry bipartisan reaction, with lawmakers demanding accountability.
Key Allegations Raised in Testimony
- Wynn-Williams claims Zuckerberg misrepresented Meta’s efforts to enter China’s market.
- Meta allegedly developed custom censorship tools for potential Chinese use.
- Internal talks included offering the Chinese government access to Hong Kong users’ data.
- Zuckerberg, she said, portrayed himself as a patriot while simultaneously building an $18 billion ad business tied to Chinese buyers.
“This is a man who wears many different costumes… He was learning Mandarin, censoring at will. Now it’s MMA and free speech. Who knows what’s next?” — Sarah Wynn-Williams
Bipartisan Backlash on Capitol Hill
Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) said this hearing was “just the beginning,” demanding Zuckerberg appear before Congress again.
Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) echoed the outrage, stating Zuckerberg “sold out America to China” and accused Meta of dodging tech regulation through deception and influence.
Meta, in a statement, dismissed Wynn-Williams’ claims as “divorced from reality.”
What’s Next for Meta?
Zuckerberg has testified before Congress eight times since 2018, but lawmakers suggest his previous testimonies lacked full transparency. Meta China investigation prompts renewed calls for transparency amid rising national security and tech regulation concerns.
Source: NBC News
