Dupage Policy Journal

Mark Rice, a candidate for the 8th Congressional District, has voiced his opposition to censorship on social media platforms, particularly Facebook. In highlighting the importance of freedom of speech and expressing concerns about the control exerted by big tech companies over the dissemination of information, Rice’s public stance against big tech censorship and alleged antitrust behavior aligns with a broader conversation around the influence of major tech companies on public discourse and competition.

“If you have ever dealt with the censorship on this platform you would know how unfair the playing field really is,” Rice said on Facebook.

“Without freedom of speech and freedom to exercise that right, the big tech guys are controlling the message and those who control the message- control the people! We sat down and talked with founder of Social Media Freedom Foundation Jason Fyk who shared with us how his case against FB is going and the “Good Samaritan” clause they hide behind while censoring (to only hurt users and help users who are making them more money) should not protect them. Meta defendants “filtering practices are aimed at suppressing competition” and section 230 (c) 1 is the back door to CDA immunity.”

Rice recently engaged in a conversation on his YouTube channel with Jason Fyk, the founder of the Social Media Freedom Foundation. Fyk accused Facebook of engaging in anti-trust behavior by manipulating its sponsored advertising program. According to Fyk, Facebook’s prioritization of sponsored content in the newsfeed creates a situation where direct competitors are given an advantage, constituting a potential violation of antitrust laws.

“Their entire business models a massive antitrust. It is hiding in plain sight,” Fyk said.

“They’re taking money to develop the content they want for money and force everyone else out. Guess what? They had to force everybody off the platform. That’s why it went from who you choose to see to who they choose to see.”

In the course of the conversation Rice revealed he was an early investor in MySpace. Drawing from his experience, Rice asserted his understanding of the evolution of social media and hinted at potential legal issues surrounding Facebook’s practices.

“I’m one of the first few guys that launched MySpace,” Rice said.

“I was at the very beginning of my stay in public raised capital for them, you know, was very involved at the beginning. So I know something about the law from way back at the very beginnings of the site.”

Rice's campaign for the 8th Congressional District emphasizes key areas such as economic growth, fiscal discipline, tax relief, immigration reform and border security. An executive in the energy sector with a 35-year residence in Illinois, Rice currently serves as CEO of Energy CX. Under his leadership, this company has emerged as a nationwide leader in providing energy solutions with a team of 70 professionals.

The 8th Congressional District spans northern Cook County, northern DuPage County and northeast Kane County. It is currently represented by U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-Ill.).