The Supreme Court Rules Public Can Sue Officials for Social Media Blocking

In a unanimous decision, the Supreme Court affirmed the public’s right to sue officials who block or mute them on social media platforms.

Justice Amy Coney Barrett clarified that the lawsuit’s validity hinges on whether the blocking occurs on an official account used for state communication.

The ruling responds to cases in Michigan and California, where officials blocked constituents for criticism.

Barrett emphasized that the distinction between private and state action on social media relies on substance, not labels, setting a clearer standard for officials’ online conduct. The decision, reminiscent of the Trump-era Twitter controversy, underscores the intersection of public discourse and official communication channels.