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Three new members have joined Meta's board of directors recently, including UFC president, Dana White.

The new board appointments take place just ahead of President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration likely due to Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg's efforts to re-connect with President-elect Donald Trump.

Along with White, BBC reported that Meta's board will include John Elkann, chairman of the European investment firm Exor, and Charlie Songhurst, a former Microsoft executive. These additions are beneficial for Meta who's looking to improve in areas of artificial intelligence and wearable technology, especially with White who has transformed UFC into a global powerhouse.

Meta commended White's leadership, citing his ability to grow and innovate within the sports industry. Now, White has a long-standing relationship with Trump and expressed enthusiasm about his new role, particularly in shaping the future of technology.

White expressed his excitement to be part of the company's journey, especially with emerging technologies like AI.

Meta Reconnects with GOP and Trump

According to the New York Times, this follows a dramatic change in staff at Meta after the departure of Sir Nick Clegg, former president of global affairs. In his place comes Joel Kaplan, a Republican, who has, for years managed Meta's dealings with the GOP. The switch is significant; it is as if Meta was trying to redefine its political standing. Kaplan together with White represents a move from Meta to potentially solidify further ties with prominent conservative figures and organizations in the US.

White's appointment also comes during a time of slight standoff between Meta and Trump. In 2021, Trump expressed meltdown after he was banned by Meta from Facebook and Instagram following his role in inciting the January 6 US Capitol riot.

Luckily for Zuckerberg, there's not much effort to make in winning back Trump's support as tensions between the two sides seem to have eased over the past few months. Trump has reportedly toned down his criticism against Zuckerberg, and even sent him gratitude for a private phone call after his first assassination attempt last year.