US Backs Musk's Legal Challenge to EU Fine Against X
US backs Elon Musk’s bid to overturn €120m EU fine against X
The U.S. Department of Justice has filed an application to intervene in a legal case where Elon Musk is challenging a €120 million fine imposed by the European Commission against his social media platform X.
The EU fined X in December 2025 for allegedly deceiving users by selling blue verification badges without meaningfully verifying account holders' identities. The DOJ argues the European Commission overstepped its authority by regulating an American company outside EU jurisdiction.
U.S. Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate stated the commission "inappropriately attempted" to expand its reach. The DOJ claims it has a legitimate interest in ensuring the EU's decision aligns with international law standards on territorial jurisdiction and does not harm U.S. digital service companies that contribute significantly to the American economy.
