The hard truth about the Facebook ad boycott: Nothing matters but Zuckerberg

CNN — For years, Facebook has been viewed as one of the only truly indispensable digital advertising platforms for big and small businesses looking to reach the social network’s vast audience. In the weeks since Facebook decided not to take action on a series of controversial Trump posts — including one during the racial justice protests that said “looting” would lead to “shooting” — the company and its CEO have faced pushback from employees, politicians and even scientists backed by Zuckerberg’s philanthropic organization. “We know we have more work to do, and we’ll continue to work with civil rights groups, GARM, and other experts to develop even more tools, technology and policies to continue this fight.” Facebook may be vulnerable, but Zuckerberg is not As each new company lends its weight to the boycott, the economic pressure is growing on Facebook to change — somehow. “We set our policies based on principles rather than business interests.” Whether the boycott will even have a measurable impact on Facebook’s bottom line still remains very hazy. “It’ll be tough.” Until Zuckerberg himself decides to change the limits of free expression on his platform, Facebook may simply lose brands until only those that don’t object to the company’s conduct or who cannot survive without the platform’s reach are left, Martin said.