Meta appoints anti-DEI and anti-LGBTQ+ conspiracy theorist Robby Starbuck as AI bias advisor

Meta Platforms settled a defamation lawsuit with Robby Starbuck after its AI chatbot falsely linked him to the January 6 riot and other claims. Following this settlement, Meta appointed Starbuck as an advisor to help address perceived political bias in its AI systems.

Multiple reputable sources describe Robby Starbuck as a far-right or MAGA influencer with a history of promoting anti-DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) and anti-LGBTQ+ conspiracy theories. For example, he has propagated claims such as chemicals turning children LGBTQ and misinformation about COVID-19 vaccines.

The appointment is framed by Meta as an effort to make its AI tools more politically neutral or less "woke," reflecting Starbuck's stated goal of reducing ideological bias in AI chatbots.

While the core facts of the appointment and Starbuck's background are accurate, the characterization of him as an "anti-DEI and anti-LGBTQ+ conspiracy theorist" is supported by documented public statements and reporting but may be viewed as pejorative depending on perspective.

This move by Meta has drawn significant media attention due to the controversial nature of Starbuck's views and the broader debate about bias in AI systems.