**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. Starbuck was appointed in August as part of a lawsuit settlement, but since then, his controversial online behavior and statements have raised questions about the decision.
### Misinformation and Unsubstantiated Claims
Since joining Meta, Robby Starbuck has been accused of spreading misinformation on various topics, including shootings in the United States, transgender issues, vaccines, and crime. He has made several unsubstantiated claims, such as alleging that individual shooters in the US were motivated by leftist ideology, labeling faith-based protest groups as communists, and linking Democratic lawmakers to murders.
Concerns have grown over Starbuck’s online conduct, which appears unchanged since his appointment, sparking fears that corporate America might be yielding to the influence of the MAGA movement.
### Starbuck’s Response to Criticism
In response to the backlash, Starbuck described the criticism as a “hit job” aimed at punishing Meta for collaborating with him on AI fairness. He clarified that his controversial statements were not made on behalf of Meta and insisted that his role is focused on ensuring AI fairness for everyone.
Despite multiple requests for comment, Meta has remained silent regarding Starbuck’s role and the contentious rhetoric associated with him.
### Background: Opposition to Corporate DEI Programs
Before joining Meta, Starbuck was known for actively opposing corporate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. He frequently challenged companies with conservative customer bases, pressuring some major American firms to abandon internal DEI programs 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 Advocacy Groups
Starbuck’s history of pushing anti-LGBTQ agendas and spreading disinformation about transgender individuals has alarmed many. Heidi Beirich, co-founder of the Global Project Against Hate and Extremism, expressed her disbelief over his involvement with Meta. She stated, “He peddles lies and pushes extremism, and it is hard to believe any of this will help make their platforms safer or better.”
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Meta’s decision to appoint Robby Starbuck as an AI bias adviser continues to provoke debate about corporate responsibility, misinformation, and the efforts to create fair and unbiased artificial intelligence systems.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/business/robby-starbuck-s-ai-bias-adviser-role-sparks-controversy-for-meta/story