Meta has indefinitely extended its political ad blackout, which was initially set from October 29 to November 5, due to what’s expected to be a lengthy vote-counting process in the U.S. election.
This move aims to reduce misinformation and minimize unrest in this tense period.
Under the extended guidelines, Meta will maintain restrictions on ads relating to social issues, elections, or politics, with the blackout period expected to last “later this week”—though no specific end date is confirmed. Ads that were live before October 29 and reached at least one impression will continue to display but with limited editing capabilities.
Meta’s decision underscores its effort to prevent misinformation and avoid adding to political discord, particularly as concerns around election integrity remain high, echoing the tensions of the 2020 election, which saw similar allegations of manipulation and unrest.
For non-political advertisers, this extension may free up additional ad space, though heightened political anxieties may impact ad engagement. Political advertisers, meanwhile, will need to pause or adjust their campaigns until results are finalized.
Meta will share further updates on these restrictions later in the week.