Meta Appoints Republican Joel Kaplan as Chief Global Affairs Officer, Replacing Nick Clegg Ahead of Trump Inauguration

Jan 2, 2025, 08:15 PM

Meta Platforms Inc. has announced a significant leadership change within its global policy team, with Nick Clegg stepping down as President of Global Affairs. Joel Kaplan, Clegg's deputy and a prominent Republican figure, will assume the role of Chief Global Affairs Officer. This transition occurs just three weeks before the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump, signaling a strategic shift as tech companies align with the incoming administration. Clegg, who joined Meta in 2018 after a career in British politics, expressed gratitude for his time at the company and highlighted his role in bridging the gap between technology and politics. Kaplan, previously the White House Deputy Chief of Staff under George W. Bush, is known for his advocacy against policies that could disproportionately impact conservative voices. Kevin Martin, another former Bush appointee, will replace Kaplan as Vice President of Global Policy, further indicating Meta's alignment with Republican leadership.