Several local officials have been tripped up blocking people from their social media accounts. State Senator Stace Nelson and Sioux Falls City Councilor Theresa Stehly have both been accused of blocking constituents on Facebook.
Some of the followers on my Facebook page think elected officials should have every right to block others.
Johnny wrote, “Facebook is NOT an official government platform… although (Mark) Zuckerberg shadow bans people… people have the right to block trolls and anyone they feel.”
That sentiment may be common on social media, but it’s incorrect. The law is clear.
You have the right to block trolls, but elected officials do not. They must allow everyone to comment if they’re using social media to share their political viewpoints and news.
You may remember that President Trump and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez were each sued for blocking critics on Twitter. That’s a big no-no for elected officials.
Sioux Falls City Councilor Greg Neitzert is on to the solution.
Neitzert created a second Facebook page. One page is for personal use and the other for official city business.
I did the same thing several years ago. I discuss issues and ideas that are open to everyone (well, nearly everyone) on my radio Facebook page. On the other page, I share family news, photos, and personal items with my friends and family.
It allows me to log into Facebook and enjoy my privacy like anyone else. It’s a great solution for government officials who don’t want to be on duty 24/7 when they’re on social media.
