By SEAN KEAGAN FOLEY

For too long, Democrats have allowed social media platforms to operate with impunity, despite mounting evidence that they are fueling division, misinformation, and hate. The data is clear: these platforms, driven by profit and engagement metrics, reward outrage, amplify lies, and erode trust in democratic institutions. We can no longer afford to treat them as neutral platforms — they are shaping our politics, our culture, and our mental health. And not for the better.

It’s time for Democrats to go on the offensive.

Let’s be honest: Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, and YouTube have become toxic engines of polarization. Their algorithms are designed to push people toward extremes because outrage and fear keep users scrolling — and advertisers paying. They amplify conspiracy theories, help authoritarians grow their reach, and make it nearly impossible to build a shared reality.

While Republicans have often used these platforms to spread lies and stoke resentment, Democrats have largely responded with timid calls for voluntary reforms or vague pledges to “study the issue.” That’s not good enough.

We need action.

I have been discussing the issues of social media since 2016, and what I find is that all parents — Republicans, Democrats, and Independents — are angry and tired. They see the harm every day. The anxiety in their kids. The constant division. The lies and rage consuming their communities. And they’re asking the same thing I am: What are you waiting for? Do something!

So let me give you some guidance. First, Democrats should demand real transparency. What do the algorithms prioritize? How do they handle misinformation? What data is collected on users, including minors? These companies know their systems are harmful — internal whistleblowers have said as much. Yet without public oversight, there’s no accountability.

Second, it’s time to regulate the business model itself. Social media thrives on surveillance capitalism; I.e. creepily stalking people and their children: the more data they collect, the more precisely they can manipulate users and sell their attention. We need strong privacy laws that limit how much data can be collected, stored, and sold — especially when it comes to children. We can do this here in New Jersey!

Third, Democrats should push for algorithmic accountability. This isn’t about free speech — it’s about the systems behind the speech. No one is asking to censor ideas or ban opinions. What we need is oversight of the algorithms that deliberately amplify the most extreme, misleading, and divisive content because it keeps people angry, scared, and glued to their screens. These algorithms are not neutral! They are engineered for engagement, not truth or well-being. It’s time to treat them like the powerful, manipulative forces they are — and regulate them accordingly.

Finally, we must acknowledge the mental health crisis these platforms are fueling. Rates of anxiety, depression, and suicide are skyrocketing, especially among young people. If tobacco companies were causing this kind of harm, we’d be marching in the streets. Social media is no different — and the sooner we treat it like the public health threat it is, the better.

This isn’t about censorship. It’s about responsibility. And if Democrats don’t lead on this issue, we’re leaving our democracy — and our children — at the mercy of an unregulated, unaccountable digital Wild West.

It’s time to draw a line.

Go after social media! Campaign against Tech Bundy Billionaires  such as Musk and Zuckerberg. For the truth. For children’s mental health For democracy. For the future.

Sean Keagan Foley

Garwood Councilman

2015 Eagleton Institute of Politics Fellow 

Social Worker & Psychotherapist