Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s recent alignment with right-wing figures and ideologies has reportedly left many employees feeling “betrayed” and “horrified,” according to a Financial Times report. The shift became especially visible after his appearance on Joe Rogan’s podcast, where he criticized corporate America as “culturally neutered” and advocated for more “masculine energy” in workplaces. Internally, the backlash was swift, with some Meta executives raising concerns during meetings. However, Zuckerberg allegedly brushed off the criticism, with one staffer quoting him as saying, “If you don’t like it, tough s**t.”
The report, based on conversations with 45 current and former colleagues, highlights a growing unease at Meta over Zuckerberg’s perceived transformation. Some employees have nicknamed him “MAGA Mark” a reference to his perceived shift toward Trump-aligned conservatism and association with the “manosphere,” a network of anti-woke, hyper-masculine influencers. His recent views and public image appear to mark a stark departure from his previous stance as a supporter of social justice and inclusivity. Descriptions of staff reactions include words like “grieving,” “horror,” and “betrayal.”
Zuckerberg’s makeover is not only ideological but also physical. Gone are the signature grey T-shirts and hoodies — replaced with shearling coats, gold chains, and a ginger mullet. His comparison of MMA fighting to workplace aggression further unsettled employees, with some interpreting it as a glorification of combative behavior in professional settings. Insiders also suggest that Zuckerberg’s evolution may stem from his frustration over Elon Musk’s cult-like popularity and his own struggle to gain similar cultural cachet. “He just wants people to like him,” one source noted, referencing the portrayal of his character in The Social Network.
