Elon Musk has just brought Donald Trump back to Twitter

San Francisco, California - Elon Musk has done what many had expected him to do from the moment he took over Twitter: reinstate former President Donald Trump's account.

Elon Musk (r) announced former President Donald Trump's Twitter account will be reinstated.
Elon Musk (r) announced former President Donald Trump's Twitter account will be reinstated.  © Collage: REUTERS

After creating a poll asking users to decide whether Trump's account should be re-activated, Musk on Saturday night announced the final result of 52%-48% in favor would be respected.

More than 15 million Twitter users voted in the poll, which was active for a day and half.

The Tesla CEO sealed a decision that is set to have potentially far-reaching consequences with a tweet: "The people have spoken. Trump will be reinstated. Vox Populi, Vox Dei."

Elon Musk: MAGA Republicans praise Musk after spending bill fiasco: "Our Prime Minister"
Elon Musk MAGA Republicans praise Musk after spending bill fiasco: "Our Prime Minister"

That last phrase is Latin for "Voice of the people, voice of God."

Trump had his Twitter account permanently suspended in January 2021 after he incited his supporters to attack the Capitol. At the time, he tweeted throughout the initial stages of the riot, mostly siding with the people ransacking the seat of Congress. His account is now visible again, along with 1.5 million followers.

The ex-president, who this week made his candidacy for the 2024 presidential election official, has previously said he wouldn't return to the platform even if his ban was lifted.

As for Musk, this is by far his most controversial decision since becoming the owner of Twitter. Given the dumpster fire that the social media platform has become in a few short weeks, that's saying something.

Cover photo: Collage: REUTERS

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