**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 recently faced criticism over its appointment of 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 various sensitive topics.
### Misinformation and Unsubstantiated Claims
Since taking on his role, Starbuck has been accused of making several unsubstantiated claims. He alleged that individual shooters in the US were motivated by leftist ideology, labeled faith-based protest groups as communists, and even linked Democratic lawmakers to murders. His ongoing online behavior has raised serious concerns about corporate America’s perceived concessions to the MAGA movement.
### A Defiant Response
When confronted with criticism, Starbuck dismissed the allegations as unfair attacks. He stated, “It seems your piece is an attempted hit job meant to punish Meta for working with me on AI fairness.” He also clarified that his statements were personal opinions and not reflective of Meta. Starbuck emphasized that his role is focused on making AI fair for everyone.
Despite repeated inquiries from *The Guardian*, Meta has yet to comment publicly on Starbuck’s role or his controversial rhetoric.
### Starbuck’s Past Actions and Controversies
Before joining Meta, Starbuck was known for his vocal opposition to corporate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. He frequently targeted companies with conservative customer bases, pressuring major American firms to discontinue internal DEI initiatives or sever ties with pro-LGBTQ organizations.
Additionally, Starbuck has been a notable amplifier of vaccine misinformation, echoing claims made by US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
### Concerns from Experts
Starbuck’s appointment has drawn sharp criticism from experts and advocacy groups. He has been accused of pushing an anti-LGBTQ agenda and spreading false information about transgender individuals. Heidi Beirich, Co-founder of the Global Project Against Hate and Extremism, expressed disbelief at Starbuck’s involvement in Meta’s operations, stating, “He peddles lies and pushes extremism, and it is hard to believe any of this will help make their platforms safer or better.”
### What’s Next?
As debates continue around the role of ethics and fairness in AI, Meta’s decision to appoint Robby Starbuck remains highly contentious. The company’s silence on the issue only fuels further speculation and concern.
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*Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.*
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/robby-starbuck-s-ai-bias-adviser-role-sparks-controversy-for-meta/story
