Parler, the conservative-oriented social media platform, is set to make a comeback in the first quarter of 2024. The platform, which shuttered in April 2023 amid controversies and allegations of hosting illicit content, plans to return to its roots as a “robust marketplace of ideas.”
Initially popular among conservative audiences, Parler faced criticism for hosting hate speech, misinformation, and being utilised as a platform for planning the 6 January Capitol attacks. The platform was removed from major app stores and faced challenges related to content moderation.
Parler’s user base declined significantly, attracting only 137,000 unique visitors in August 2022 compared to 12.3 million in January 2021. The relaunch is positioned as an effort to restore Parler to its original vision and provide an open marketplace of ideas.
The platform, now under the ownership of Texas-based PDS Partners, aims to re-enter the social media landscape as the 2024 presidential race gains momentum. Competitors such as Elon Musk’s X (formerly Twitter) and Truth Social, launched by Donald Trump, have emerged in Parler’s absence.