As concerns over the potential ban of the popular social media app TikTok continue to mount, users of the app received a pop-up message on Thursday urging them to take action. The message requested that users contact their local representatives and ask them to vote against pending legislation that could result in a complete ban of the Chinese-owned app in the United States. The move comes as the House Energy and Commerce Committee discussed a bipartisan measure aimed at protecting national security from the threat posed by foreign adversary-controlled applications.
The proposed legislation, sponsored by Rep. Mike Gallagher (R-WI), has sparked controversy as it would require TikTok to divest from its Chinese parent company ByteDance or face a complete ban from app stores in the United States. Rep. Gallagher has accused the company of using intimidation tactics to sway the outcome of the vote. In a press conference, he stated, “Today, it’s about our bill and it’s about intimidating members, but tomorrow it could be misinformation or lies about an election.” The bill has gained support from both Democrats and Republicans, with the White House indicating their willingness to support it.
RIGHT NOW: as if @tiktok_us doesn’t already track all your activity, it’s asking users to put in their zip codes and contact their members of Congress out of concern about @HouseCommerce and @committeeonccp bill pic.twitter.com/Sh3hUScueY
— Matthew Foldi (@MatthewFoldi) March 7, 2024
The debate over TikTok’s potential ban has been ongoing for months, with concerns over its ties to China and the protection of user data at the forefront. Despite receiving criticism and facing legal challenges, the app has continued to grow in popularity, with over 170 million American users and 5 million small businesses utilizing it as a platform for growth. TikTok itself has been vocal in pushing back against the legislation, stating that it is an outright ban on the app and will trample on the First Amendment rights of millions of Americans.
The app’s possible ban in the United States has also raised concerns among users, including President Joe Biden, who recently joined the platform. There are fears that the move could damage Biden’s reputation with young people, a key demographic in his voter base. However, some experts have noted that even if Biden were to pull his support for the bill, it could still be passed with a Congressional supermajority. The White House has also clarified that the legislation is not a complete ban of the app, but rather a move to ensure that its ownership does not pose a threat to national security.
Mike Gallagher blasting TikTok efforts to lobby against the China select Cmte and E and C bill, accuses company of lying about the proposal.
“Today, it’s about our bill and it’s about intimidating members, but tomorrow it could be misinformation or lies about an election” pic.twitter.com/TCfRjw6Ebz
— Max Cohen (@maxpcohen) March 7, 2024
In response to the proposed measure, TikTok has emphasized its efforts to protect user data and stated that it has no plans to divest from its Chinese ownership. The company has also pointed out the potential impact of a ban on millions of American users and businesses. The conversation around TikTok’s ban has raised larger discussions about the relationship between the US and China, with some experts suggesting that it could have diplomatic implications.
As the debate over TikTok’s future in the United States continues, it remains to be seen what the ultimate outcome will be. While the app’s ban may be seen as a move to protect national security, it also carries consequences for millions of users and small businesses that rely on it. As the House Energy and Commerce Committee deliberates on the legislation, the world will be watching to see how this issue is resolved and what it means for the relationship between the US and China moving forward.
Our statement on the latest TikTok legislation: This bill is an outright ban of TikTok, no matter how much the authors try to disguise it. This legislation will trample the First Amendment rights of 170 million Americans and deprive 5 million small businesses of a platform they…
— TikTok Policy (@TikTokPolicy) March 5, 2024
