Mass user exodus hits X after Trump’s election win

The social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, has experienced a significant drop in user numbers following the declaration of Donald Trump as the winner of the 2024 U.S. Presidential election. 

According to a CNN report, over 115,000 U.S. users deactivated their X accounts the day after the election, with this figure only covering deactivations done through the website, leaving out mobile app data that could suggest an even higher count. 

The post-election exodus reflects growing discontent with X’s moderation and content policies under the leadership of Elon Musk, who acquired the platform in 2022. Critics have pointed to Musk’s extensive changes on X including the reduction of content moderators, reinstatement of previously banned accounts, relaxed rules on controversial content, and an overhaul of the verification system as driving forces behind a declining user and advertiser base. 

In recent months, there has been a marked rise in sexist language on X, with phrases like “your body, my choice” becoming increasingly prevalent. Prominent figures in journalism, including New York Times columnist Mara Gay, former CNN anchor Don Lemon, and journalist Charlie Warzel, have openly announced their departure from X. Many of these figures, alongside other users, have migrated to Bluesky, an alternative social media platform that has seen a rapid rise in user sign-ups. Bluesky’s user base doubled within 90 days, reaching 15 million, with a million new sign-ups within a week after the election, according to Similarweb.

Adding to the backlash, British news organization The Guardian recently announced its exit from X, citing concerns over Musk’s impact on the platform. In a statement, The Guardian described X as a “toxic” environment, expressing concern that Musk’s role in the political process has undermined its ability to operate independently on the site.

This mass departure comes in direct response to Musk’s outspoken support for Trump’s campaign, which he promoted extensively on X in the lead-up to the election.