Convicts' New PR: Social Media Rehab from Jail

A growing number of convicted individuals are turning to new media to manage their public image and pursue commutation. Figures like Elizabeth Holmes and Sam Bankman-Fried have reportedly enlisted outside teams to handle their social media accounts, a necessity due to restricted internet access within correctional facilities. These teams aim to keep their voices alive and present alternative perspectives on their cases.

Right-wing political podcasts have become a popular outlet for these inmates. This heterodox environment allows them to share their narratives with less scrutiny than traditional media might offer. While some legal professionals caution against relying on third-party social media management, citing a lack of control, others see it as a viable strategy to build support, particularly within MAGA circles, as part of a commutation playbook.

Some inmates, like Harvey Weinstein, are septuagenarians less native to social media, requiring significant resources for a public relations push. In contrast, younger figures from Silicon Valley may adapt more readily. Ghislaine Maxwell's lawyer noted that while Bureau of Prisons regulations are strict, platforms like X allow external typing of messages, circumventing some restrictions. For those with shorter sentences, this digital detox can even be a welcome respite.