Trump signs 'Take It Down Act', sparks free speech debate
Donald Trump signed the "Take It Down Act," introducing severe penalties for posting intimate photos without the consent of the person depicted in them. Melania Trump, who was involved in the introduction of this law, also added her signature.
What you need to know
- The new "Take It Down Act" introduces penalties for posting intimate photos without consent, including "deepfakes".
- Melania Trump actively supported the bill, calling it a "national victory" in protecting children from online exploitation.
- Some are concerned that the new regulations could lead to the censorship of legal content.
President Donald Trump signed the "Take It Down Act," making it a federal crime to publish intimate photos without the consent of the person depicted. The law also includes images created using artificial intelligence, known as "deepfakes". Online platforms will be required to remove such content within 2 days of being reported by the victim.
Trump expressed deep concern over the impact of harmful online content, particularly deepfakes, on younger generations and emphasized that everyone should have access to a safe digital environment where they can express themselves freely, without facing exploitation or danger.
Melania Trump supported the act
Melania Trump, as the First Lady, actively supported the introduction of the act, participating in meetings about it on Capitol Hill and calling the new law a "national victory". She emphasized that technologies like AI can be a "weapon" affecting children's development. Her involvement is a continuation of the "Be Best" campaign, focusing on children's well-being and safe use of social media.
On the X platform, she posted photos showing her husband signing the bill. "Today, through the ‘TAKE IT DOWN’ Act, we affirm that the well-being of our children is central to the future of our families and America," she wrote.
Controversies surrounding the new law
During the signing ceremony in the Rose Garden of the White House, President Trump emphasized that the new law is a response to the terrible phenomenon of harassing women through "deepfakes". Melania Trump, despite initial doubts, added her signature, which was a symbolic gesture, as First Ladies do not have a formal role in the legislative process.
Despite broad support in Congress, the act has faced criticism from free speech and digital rights advocates. They fear that the regulations may lead to the censorship of legal content.
