In a strategic move to combat the rising issue of online drug sales, President-elect Donald Trump’s transition team has reached out to major technology companies. According to reports from The Information, tech giants including Google, Microsoft, and Meta have been invited to a pivotal meeting scheduled for mid-December.
Key representatives from Trump’s team, notably Jim Carroll, who previously served as the drug czar during Trump’s first term, initiated contact to understand the companies' priorities and the challenges they face in addressing illegal drug transactions online.
Beyond the big names, the transition team has also contacted Snap and TikTok in hopes of fostering a collaborative effort to curb the sale of illicit substances on their platforms. As of now, these companies have yet to respond to requests for comment.
Trump has been vocal about his commitment to intensify actions against fentanyl trafficking, particularly from Mexico. He has threatened to impose tariffs on goods from Mexico and Canada unless these nations take decisive steps to reduce the flow of fentanyl and address illegal migration. Additionally, Trump has unveiled plans for a nationwide advertising campaign aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of fentanyl use.
The push to regulate online drug sales comes at a time when platforms like Facebook and Instagram, owned by Meta, have faced scrutiny over their roles in facilitating drug transactions. Earlier this year, Meta was investigated for its part in the issue, while eBay settled with the Department of Justice for $59 million over similar concerns.
As the transition team seeks to build partnerships with tech companies, the focus remains on creating a safer digital environment by leveraging technology to monitor and prevent the sale of illegal drugs.
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Trump's aides 'engage tech giants' to address online drug sales
cgtn.com
