Media News Daily: Top Stories for 02/20/2026

Mark Zuckerberg Testifies in Social Media Addiction Trial

Mark Zuckerberg appeared in a Los Angeles courtroom as part of a landmark case alleging Meta Platforms’ Instagram harmed and addicted children. The plaintiff, now 20, claims early social media use worsened her depression and suicidal thoughts. Questioned by attorney Mark Lanier, Zuckerberg said research does not prove social media causes mental health harm and denied the company currently sets goals to increase time spent on Instagram. The bellwether trial could impact thousands of similar lawsuits. (Read More) (Associated Press Rating)

AP Journalist Detained in Cameroon While Reporting on U.S. Deportees

An Associated Press reporter was beaten and briefly detained in Yaoundé alongside three journalists and a lawyer while covering a U.S. migrant deportation program, according to Reuters. Authorities confiscated equipment, citing sensitive government information. All five were later released, raising renewed concerns about press freedom and third-country deportation practices. (Read More) (Reuters Rating)

Meta Outlines Election Integrity Plan for U.S. Midterms

Meta Platforms detailed new safeguards ahead of the 2026 U.S. midterms, including stricter political ad authorization, expanded transparency in its Ad Library, AI disclosure requirements, and a final-week block on new political ads. Reported by Social Media Today, the company says it will continue enforcing policies against voter interference and foreign influence while emphasizing political neutrality. (Read More) (Social Media Today Rating)