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Laurens City pauses official social media for two weeks after spike in political violence
Summary
The presiding official announced an immediate two-week pause on Laurens City’s social media accounts in response to recent political violence; the city said it will use its website and local media partners for updates and encouraged residents to support neighbors and local businesses.
The presiding official of Laurens City announced at the council’s September meeting that the city will pause engagement on all social media platforms for two weeks, citing concerns about rising political violence and online division. "I'm announcing tonight that beginning today for the next 2 weeks, the City is taking a pause from any sort of engagement on any platform of social media," the presiding official said.
The announcement tied the move to what the presiding official described as an increase in political violence and online anger, including a reference to recent violent events. Officials said the pause is intended to lower the temperature in public discourse rather than to censor residents. The presiding official said staff had expressed concern and that the city will "make updates to our website" and continue to provide information through local media partners and printed notices.
City officials pointed residents to the Laurens City website and local outlets for information while the pause is in effect. "If you are not able to access the City website for some reason, get the paper, go on GoLaurens, or feel free to come by City Hall or give us a call at (864) 984-3933," the presiding official said.
The presiding official encouraged residents to use the break from social media to check on neighbors, support local businesses and reduce online contention. "Instead of talking about your neighbor, we encourage you to talk to your neighbor," the presiding official said, and added the city will "reassess where things are" after the two-week pause.
The announcement does not change normal city operations, officials said, and did not specify enforcement measures or penalties for noncompliance by third parties. The city also did not name a plan for resuming social media activity beyond a promise to reassess after the pause.
