Meta Adds Strong Trump Supporter to Board of Directors

The appointment of Dana White to Meta’s board of directors is a strategic pivot uniting technology, sports, and politics under one roof.

At a Glance

Meta expands its board to include Dana White, John Elkann, and Charlie Songhurst.
White’s strong connection with Donald Trump may signal Meta’s strategy under the Trump administration.
White, CEO of UFC, has been a key supporter of Trump in several presidential campaigns.
Mark Zuckerberg commends White’s leadership in shaping UFC alongside new appointments.

White’s Induction into Meta’s Board

Meta has strategically added Dana White, John Elkann, and Charlie Songhurst to its board of directors. White, known for transforming the Ultimate Fighting Championship into a major sports franchise and his close ties to Donald Trump, adds a dynamic layer to the board. His relationship with Trump stretches back to 2001, and he has actively participated in Trump’s political campaigns. This move expands Meta’s board from 10 to 13 members, reflecting a strategic shift towards stronger political engagement.

White’s appointment arrives just two weeks before Trump’s inauguration, highlighting Meta’s effort to align with the incoming administration. Along with Joel Kaplan, former deputy chief of staff under President George W. Bush, appointed as chief global affairs officer, Meta is making decisive moves to navigate the political landscape. This development is part of a wider plan to enhance its influence in AI, technology, and human connection.

Dana White, UFC CEO and Trump ally, to join Meta's board of directors https://t.co/WPknlrDyR0

— Insider Tech (@TechInsider) January 6, 2025

White’s Impact and Strategic Intentions

Dana White has expressed enthusiasm about involving himself in the future of AI and emerging technologies, believing the integration of social media and AI is pivotal for success. Mark Zuckerberg praised White for building the UFC “into one of the most valuable, fastest growing, and most popular sports enterprises in the world.” This complements Meta’s mission to innovate and lead in technological advancements, leveraging White’s business acumen to their advantage.

“I’ve never been interested in joining a board of directors until I got the offer to join Meta’s board. I am a huge believer that social media and AI are the future” – White

With White’s addition, Meta aligns its strategies with influential figures capable of nurturing robust relationships with political entities. Zuckerberg’s meeting with Trump at Mar-a-Lago and Meta’s $1 million contribution to Trump’s inauguration fund underscores these efforts. This marks a clear transition towards tightening relationships with entities holding leverage in technology policies and AI regulations.

Zuckerberg’s Praise and Political Shifts

Zuckerberg has openly appreciated White, stating, “I’ve admired him as an entrepreneur and his ability to build such a beloved brand.” With White, Elkann, and Songhurst onboard, Zuckerberg aims to fortify Meta’s capability to seize AI-related opportunities, enhancing human connection through evolved wearables. Notably, Zuckerberg’s association with Trump has evolved since the latter’s ban from Facebook and Instagram after the January 2021 Capitol riot.

The convergence of technology, sports, and politics through White’s role signals exciting future collaborations and avenues for Meta. The company positions itself to influence urgent matters at the crux of technology-informed policymaking and legislative endeavors as the new administrative landscape unfolds.