**Why Meta’s AI Bias Adviser Is Under Fire**
*By Dwaipayan Roy | Oct 12, 2025, 06:21 PM*
Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has come under scrutiny for appointing Robby Starbuck as an AI bias adviser. The appointment, made in August as part of a lawsuit settlement, has sparked controversy due to Starbuck’s history of spreading misinformation on several sensitive topics, including US shootings, transgender issues, vaccines, and crime.
### Misinformation Spread and Unsubstantiated Claims
Since joining Meta, Starbuck has made numerous unfounded claims. He alleged that individual shooters in the US were motivated by leftist ideology, labeled faith-based protest groups as communists, and linked Democratic lawmakers to murders without evidence. His online behavior has shown no sign of moderation, raising concerns about corporate America’s perceived capitulation to the MAGA movement.
### Starbuck’s Response to Criticism
In response to the backlash, Starbuck described the criticism as an “attempted hit job” aimed at punishing Meta for collaborating with him on AI fairness. He clarified that his personal statements do not represent Meta and emphasized his role is focused on making AI fair for everyone.
Despite repeated inquiries from *The Guardian*, Meta has declined to comment on Starbuck’s role or address his controversial online rhetoric.
### Past Actions and Controversies
Prior to his role at Meta, Starbuck was known for his opposition to corporate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. He actively targeted companies with conservative customer bases, pressuring several major American firms to eliminate internal DEI initiatives or sever ties with pro-LGBTQ organizations.
Moreover, Starbuck has been a prominent promoter of vaccine misinformation, often amplifying claims propagated by US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
### Concerns from Advocacy Groups
Starbuck has been accused of pushing an anti-LGBTQ agenda and spreading disinformation about transgender individuals. Heidi Beirich, co-founder of the Global Project Against Hate and Extremism, expressed strong disapproval of Starbuck’s involvement with Meta. She stated, “He peddles lies and pushes extremism, and it is hard to believe any of this will help make their platforms safer or better.”
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Meta’s decision to appoint Robby Starbuck as an AI bias adviser continues to raise questions about the company’s commitment to fairness and safety on its platforms. As the controversy unfolds, the tech giant’s silence on the matter only adds to public concern.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/robby-starbuck-s-ai-bias-adviser-role-sparks-controversy-for-meta/story
