In October 2025, Senator Ted Cruz formally challenged Wikipedia, accusing the site of harboring a liberal bias in its coverage.
In a letter to Wikimedia Foundation CEO Maryana Iskander, Cruz demanded disclosure of editorial policies, source classifications, and internal oversight procedures.
Ted Cruz Research on Wikipedia
Cruz drew on research from conservative think tanks like the Manhattan Institute, claiming that Wikipedia favors outlets such as MSNBC and CNN as “reliable” while labeling Fox News as “unreliable.”
He also alleged that the platform funds left-leaning organizations influencing content, and accused it of suppressing pro-Israeli narratives and enabling editorial campaigns.
Responding to the letter, the Wikimedia Foundation affirmed its commitment to neutrality.
It highlighted its policies, transparent editing community, and volunteer oversight, defending Wikipedia as a “living encyclopedia” improved over time.
Rising Tensions Over Content
Cruz gave Wikimedia two weeks—until October 17, 2025—to submit requested documents.
He claimed jurisdiction under Senate rules, asserting oversight of communications and online platforms.
This confrontation highlights rising tensions over content, censorship, and ideological bias in digital media—a debate likely to intensify as tech platforms play ever-greater roles in shaping public discourse.
