The Anti-Defamation League’s damning report released Thursday about the “unprecedented” amount of racist and violent content in the Steam community prompted a U.S. senator to take action. In a letter unearthed by The Verge, Sen. Mark Warner (D-Va.) asked Valve CEO Gabe Newell how he and his company are addressing the issue. I asked.
“My concern is that Steam is the world’s largest single online gaming digital distribution and social networking platform, with over 100 million unique user accounts and a user base similar in size to ‘traditional social media and social networks.’ It is further heightened by the fact that there is a “platform,” Warner wrote.
The senator also said users must not “upload or post illegal or inappropriate content (authentic) or disturbing depictions of violence” or “harass other users or Steam personnel.” It also cited Steam’s online conduct policy, which prohibits it.
“Valve needs to bring its content moderation practices in line with industry standards, or it will face legal action from the federal government for allowing hate groups to congregate and engage in activities that undoubtedly endanger the American public.” They must face greater scrutiny,” Warner wrote.
Congress has no ability to take action against Valve or other platforms other than to shine a light on the issue through letters and committee hearings. In June, the Supreme Court overturned two state laws that prohibited government officials from communicating with social media companies about objectionable content.
This also isn’t the first time Congress has raised concerns about extremist and racist content created by users and players of Valve’s products. The Senate Judiciary Committee sent a letter to Newell in 2023 expressing concern about players posting and spewing racist language in Valve’s multiplayer online arena game Dota 2.
We have reached out to Valve for comment. We will update this article if we receive a statement or response from Valve.
