A groundbreaking investigation by Sky News has uncovered the systematic methods through which the social media platform X, under the ownership of Elon Musk, is amplifying right-wing and extreme political content for its users in the United Kingdom.
The Algorithmic Amplification
For the first time, data and forensics journalists at Sky News have meticulously analysed the platform's recommendation algorithm. Their findings, discussed on the Sky News Daily podcast, indicate that the system is specifically designed to boost the reach of content from right-leaning sources and figures. This discovery was made public on Thursday, 6 November 2025.
The investigation was led by Sky News data journalists Tom Cheshire and Kaitlin Tosh, who joined presenter Niall on the podcast to detail their forensic findings. The episode was produced by Tom Gillespie and edited by Mike Bovill.
Impact on the British Political Landscape
The report suggests that regular users of the platform, formerly known as Twitter, may find their feeds increasingly populated with content that aligns with right-wing political perspectives. This algorithmic preference raises significant questions about the platform's influence on public discourse and political opinion within the UK.
The investigation does not merely highlight a tendency but provides concrete data on how the amplification works, revealing a pattern that could have profound effects on the digital ecosystem and political engagement in Britain.
Broader Implications and Reactions
This revelation places a spotlight on the power and responsibility of major tech platforms and their owners in shaping political narratives. The fact that a single platform's algorithm, directed by one of the world's most influential tech leaders, can have such a targeted effect on a nation's political conversation is a development of considerable public interest.
It prompts a wider discussion about digital media regulation, algorithmic transparency, and the role of social media in modern democracies. The findings from Sky News are likely to fuel ongoing debates concerning the intersection of technology, free speech, and political bias.
