In response to Jonathan Liew's article questioning why self-professed progressives continue to use Elon Musk's social media platform X (formerly Twitter), two readers offer their perspectives.
Corporate Reluctance to Leave X
Mat Watkinson from Scarborough, North Yorkshire, argues that the primary reason people stay on X is that major companies refuse to leave. He writes: 'All major companies refuse to leave it. Sadly, it’s the quickest way to complain and get a result.' Watkinson points out that the BBC, supermarkets, and travel companies remain on the platform because it allows them to reach consumers swiftly. He believes these organizations are 'terrified of the oligarch’s influence' and that change will only occur when influential entities depart.
Algorithmic Necessity
Keith Flett from Tottenham, London, shares a personal anecdote to illustrate why he still uses X. After learning about the closure of the Tottenham independent brewery Redemption, he attempted to contact his MP, David Lammy. However, Lammy is not active on Bluesky, an alternative platform. Flett explains: 'So Elon Musk’s algorithms had to be braved.' This highlights the practical challenge of reaching public figures who have not migrated to other networks.
Both correspondents acknowledge the drawbacks of X under Musk's ownership but feel constrained by the lack of viable alternatives for essential communication.
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