Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey has filed a motion to prevent Media Matters from shutting down a Missouri court. This action comes after the nonprofit attempted to stop Bailey’s investigation into its fraudulent activities by filing a motion in a D.C. court.
Bailey initiated legal proceedings against Media Matters in March to compel the organization to provide documents relevant to his investigation. The litigation is currently in progress in a state court.
“Media Matters is attempting to shut down Missouri courts by filing a motion in a D.C. court to halt our investigation and lawsuit into their fraudulent practices,” stated Attorney General Bailey. “D.C. courts have no control over Missouri courts. I have filed a motion to keep this suit in Missouri, where it belongs. I will not allow Media Matters to run to a D.C. court to evade Missouri law.”
The controversy surrounding Media Matters arose from allegations that it manipulated X’s algorithm to display advertisers’ content next to fabricated controversial posts, resulting in significant financial losses for X when affected advertisers withdrew their support. Media Matters has been vocal in its criticism of X for not censoring certain viewpoints.
Bailey’s investigation began in November 2023 following evidence that Media Matters had unlawfully solicited donations from Missourians to target X, violating the Missouri Merchandising Practices Act.
In his opposition motion, General Bailey referenced legal precedents to support his stance. He emphasized that federal courts typically reject attempts to challenge state subpoenas in federal court when there is an ongoing state proceeding. Bailey highlighted that federal courts lack jurisdiction to issue orders that could halt existing state court proceedings.
The motion filed by General Bailey in opposition to Media Matters can be viewed for further details.
