Elon Musk's Lawsuit Against Anti-Hate Speech Group Dismissed by Judge as Intimidation Tactics

By John Lopez

Mar 25, 2024 02:59 PM EDT

A US judge has dismissed Elon Musk's lawsuit against the Center for Countering Digital Hate (CCDH). The lawsuit, which targeted the nonprofit group for criticizing Musk's social media platform X (formerly Twitter), has been deemed unfounded by US District Judge Charles Breyer in San Francisco.

In a 52-page ruling, Judge Breyer stated that it was evident Musk's lawsuit aimed to punish CCDH for its critical publications and deter others from engaging in similar criticism. Musk's concerns appeared to be more focused on CCDH's speech than its data collection methods, as highlighted by the judge.

"Other times, a complaint is so unabashedly and vociferously about one thing that there can be no mistaking that purpose. This case represents the latter circumstance. This case is about punishing the defendants for their speech," Breyer wrote.

Elon Musk X Loses Lawsuit Against Anti-Hate Speech Nonprofit

The dismissal was made under California's anti-Slapp law, which prohibits nuisance lawsuits aimed at stifling free speech. Judge Breyer described Musk's lawsuit as a clear attempt to punish CCDH for exercising its right to free speech.

Elon Musk, known for his vocal advocacy of free speech, did not immediately comment on the ruling. However, Musk previously criticized CCDH on X, accusing it of being an 'evil' organization and attempting to undermine the First Amendment.

CCDH, on the other hand, welcomed the ruling, expressing hope that it would embolden other researchers to hold social media companies accountable for their actions. Roberta Kaplan, the lawyer representing CCDH, hailed the decision as a victory for free speech and a refusal to allow Musk to manipulate the legal system.

Musk's lawsuit alleged that CCDH unlawfully accessed data to create reports, a claim that CCDH defended as legitimate public data gathering.

Elon Musk's Legal Disputes

The legal battle is one among many challenges faced by Musk and his companies. Tesla, under Musk's leadership, has encountered several lawsuits, including allegations of worker harassment, which the company vehemently denies.

Moreover, Musk is currently facing a class-action lawsuit from former X employees, alleging failure to pay $500 million in severance following mass layoffs.

Legal & Regulatory