Donald Trump is back on Twitch. The streaming platform has lifted the ban on the former president’s channel, which was imposed after the January 6 Capitol Riots. This move comes as Trump solidifies his position as the Republican front-runner for the 2024 elections. The news was made public by Twitch insider Slasher on Friday.
Some Twitch viewers are cracking jokes about potential Trump gameplay scenarios, imagining the ex-president attempting a “Bloodborne no hit run” or mimicking his distinctive speech patterns in-game.
Critics argue that Trump’s return could lead to the spread of harmful political rhetoric, while supporters see it as a win for open discourse. The move also highlights the challenges faced by social media companies in moderating high-profile figures.
However, financial motivations may be at play. Trump’s streams have the potential to draw massive viewership, translating into substantial ad revenue for Twitch. This has led some to speculate that the unbanning is more about profit than principles.
The reinstatement follows a pattern seen across other major platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter, which initially banned Trump but have since allowed his return. Other streamers like Destiny have tried to appeal their Twitch bans as well, but failed to get their channel white listed again.
Twitch moderators are now bracing for impact. Twitch’s auto-moderation systems will sure be tested in case Trump actually appears on a stream. The platform’s community guidelines prohibit hate speech, harassment, and incitement of violence, setting the stage for potential clashes with Trump’s often controversial rhetoric.
For Trump, Twitch offers a direct line to supporters as he gears up for another presidential run. The platform could become a key tool in his digital campaign strategy, allowing him to broadcast rallies and speeches to a wide audience.
As the 2024 election season heats up, all eyes will be on Trump’s Twitch channel. Whether he sticks to political content or surprises viewers with some gaming action, it’s clear that Trump’s return to Twitch marks a new chapter in the 2024 elections.