Elon Musk Sends X Dispute to Conservative Texas Court by Updating Terms of Service

Company X, owned by Elon Musk, has recently updated its terms of service. These changes redirect disputes from users of the social media platform formerly known as Twitter to federal court in Texas. Federal judges in Texas have a reputation for favoring conservative litigants in political cases.

The updated terms state that any legal action against Company X must be filed exclusively in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas or the state court in Tarrant County, Texas. This venue clause is a common practice for companies, but it is notable that Company X is located in Bastrop, Texas, which falls under the Western District of Texas.

It is speculated that this choice of venue is related to the political leanings of judges in the Northern District of Texas, which has fewer Republican-appointed judges compared to the Western District. This district is known for conservative activism and has become a preferred destination for lawsuits challenging Joe Biden’s policies, leading some to criticize the tactic as “judge shopping.”

Stephen Vladeck, a law professor at Georgetown University, suggested that the new language in the terms of service may be connected to Company X’s recent legal strategy. Elon Musk, known as the world’s richest man, has shown support for conservative causes and was a significant financial backer of Donald Trump’s presidential campaign.

Company X has already filed two lawsuits in the Northern District of Texas, including one against Media Matters for allegedly defaming the platform. Additionally, an antitrust lawsuit has been filed against multiple advertisers for conspiring to boycott and causing revenue loss. These cases are assigned to U.S. District Judge Reed O’Connor, known for controversial rulings on healthcare and gun control.

Despite concerns over potential conflicts of interest, Judge O’Connor has refused to recuse himself from the cases involving Company X. The federal court in Fort Worth, where the cases are being heard, has only two active judges, with the other judge, Mark Pittman, appointed by President Trump.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Kristen Ager-Hansen’s approach to the Conservative Party results in £70,000 donation

While spying in Mallorca, Kristen Ager-Hansen received an email from the Conservative party headquarters. The email expressed gratitude for his interest in attending a private dinner with Suela Braverman, who was the Home Secretary at the time and oversaw Britain’s security services.

Ager Hansen, a Norwegian businessman, claimed to employ veterans of CIA, Mossad, and MI6 in his operations, catering to clients like eccentric billionaires with services ranging from surveillance to social engineering.

In July 2023, the Conservative Party received a £70,000 donation from nChain, a company where Ager Hansen was the CEO. Questions arose about the legitimacy of the donations and the scrutiny on the money influencing British politics.

Ager Hansen’s controversial past included orchestrating stings and covert operations, leading to his appointment as nChain’s CEO. He had confrontations with the law and creditors, showcasing his aggressive and unconventional tactics.

Despite the questionable donations and connections, Ager Hansen continued to make moves in high-profile circles, engaging with influential figures like Rishi Sunak and proposing lucrative projects to the Conservative Party.




Arger Hansen claims he orchestrated the sting to discredit lawyers litigating cases in the cryptocurrency industry. Photo: Rex/Shutterstock

“Data geek and intelligence officer”

Ager Hansen’s tumultuous career, marked by bankruptcies and legal issues, culminated in his role as nChain’s CEO. His aggressive and unorthodox approach to business and personal conflicts shaped his reputation as a street fighter.

His involvement in high-stakes operations with a team of experts from intelligence agencies painted a picture of a complex and controversial individual who thrived in chaotic environments.

Suela Braverman, then Home Secretary, at the 2023 Conservative Party Conference. Photo: Christopher Thomond/The Guardian

“Serious and inappropriate”

The Conservative Party’s association with Ager Hansen raised concerns about transparency and accountability, especially regarding the donations and the nature of his past operations. The party’s handling of the situation and his subsequent dismissal from nChain added to the controversy surrounding his actions.

Despite the fallout, Ager Hansen’s connections and proposed projects continued to spark intrigue and speculation, highlighting the complex web of relationships and influences within British politics.

Source: www.theguardian.com