Well, in theory, yes. In practice, there have been recorded instances where the US Government has asked people to disclose their social media [1] and in other ones (I failed to find the source) refused access to people who refused to log into their accounts.
Also, if you're a non-american traveler, all the constitutional rights you're afforded as an American don't apply. So they can pretty much ask whatever and refuse you access for any reason.
It's like the US is becoming more and more like China. But it's a worlwide trend, really, with old men screaming "We're gonna be in the dark !" ... It's thoroughly depressing.
Edit: As written down in the comments, the part about foreigners' rights is wrong. See comment for correction.
But can’t they just deny you entry? I mean you can have all the rights but if they can just let you in (especially if you live in the US), that’s still a pretty big lever.
I’ve always considered America’s uniform worship to make the 3rd irellevent, I guess it goes to show that ensuring rights via law is good even if you think it unnecceraary
I've been to the US and there's no passport control whatsoever when you leave. You don't ever see a border guard on your way out — you go through security at the airport and then straight to the gate.
The real problem is that they now require social media handles on the visa application.
Also, if you're a non-american traveler, all the constitutional rights you're afforded as an American don't apply. So they can pretty much ask whatever and refuse you access for any reason.
It's like the US is becoming more and more like China. But it's a worlwide trend, really, with old men screaming "We're gonna be in the dark !" ... It's thoroughly depressing.
Edit: As written down in the comments, the part about foreigners' rights is wrong. See comment for correction.
[1]: https://www.theverge.com/2016/12/22/14066082/us-customs-bord...