• Meta adds UFC CEO Dana White and other key figures to its board, aligning with AI, wearable tech, and social media goals.
• Strengthens ties with Republicans, reshuffling its policy team and donating $1M to Trump’s inaugural fund.
• Invests in AI and wearable tech while addressing content moderation criticism and building key relationships.

Meta, led by CEO Mark Zuckerberg, has announced the addition of Dana White, the president and CEO of Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), to its board of directors. White, a longtime ally of President-elect Donald Trump, joins two other newly appointed members, bringing the board’s total to 13. This move comes as Meta positions itself strategically amid shifts in tech policy under the incoming Republican administration.

Meta Expands Board Amid Policy Shake-Up

Zuckerberg revealed the appointments in a Facebook post on Monday, emphasizing White’s entrepreneurial success in building UFC into a global sports powerhouse. His addition aligns with Meta’s recent efforts to strengthen its relationship with the president-elect and his administration. Last week, Meta reshuffled its policy team, appointing an executive with strong Republican ties to lead its global policy efforts. Moreover, the company has made significant political contributions, including a $1 million donation to Trump’s inaugural fund.

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White isn’t the only high-profile addition. Meta also welcomed John Elkann, CEO of Exor, a holding company managing brands like Jeep and Ferrari, and Charlie Songhurst, a tech investor and AI advisor. According to Zuckerberg, these appointments aim to guide Meta’s ambitions in artificial intelligence, wearable technology, and the future of social media.

Shared Interests Bolster Zuckerberg-White Partnership

The relationship between Zuckerberg and White gained traction in recent years, driven by their shared enthusiasm for mixed martial arts. Zuckerberg began training in MMA himself in 2022, and White attempted to organize a high-profile cage match between Zuckerberg and Elon Musk in 2023. Although Musk, another Trump ally, eventually withdrew due to injury, this shared interest highlights the evolving partnership between the Meta CEO and the UFC leader.

Zuckerberg praised White’s business acumen in his announcement, describing him as an admired entrepreneur with a talent for building beloved brands. The collaboration signals Meta’s continued emphasis on aligning with influential figures across industries, particularly those with ties to the incoming administration.

Meta’s Strategic Moves in AI and Wearables

Beyond its board appointments, Meta is making aggressive moves in technology innovation. The company has been heavily investing in wearable devices, such as gaming headsets and camera-equipped sunglasses. Additionally, it has entered the global race in artificial intelligence by launching its own open-source generative AI system, which allows free modification and reuse by developers worldwide.

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These advancements position Meta as a leader in both consumer tech and AI research, with the new board appointments expected to provide critical guidance in these areas. The inclusion of Songhurst, for instance, underscores Meta’s commitment to staying ahead in the AI landscape.

Facing Criticism, Meta Courts Republican Support

Despite these forward-looking initiatives, Meta continues to face pushback from some conservatives. Critics, including Trump himself, have accused the platform of censoring right-leaning voices through its content moderation policies. In response, members of the president-elect’s team have promised stricter regulation of the tech sector, vowing to crack down on perceived censorship practices.

Zuckerberg’s recent meeting with Trump at Mar-a-Lago further demonstrates Meta’s efforts to build rapport with the incoming administration. During the visit, Zuckerberg congratulated Trump on his election victory, signaling the company’s willingness to navigate the changing political landscape.

What’s Next for Meta?

As Meta positions itself for growth in AI, wearables, and policy influence, the addition of Dana White and other board members underscores the company’s strategic direction. With opportunities and challenges ahead, Meta appears determined to align itself with key political and industry leaders to achieve its vision.

What do you think about Meta’s latest board appointments and its strategy under the Trump administration? We’d love to hear your thoughts—share your comments below.

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