Trump’s Reversal on TikTok Ban
Former President Trump has changed his mind and now opposes TikTok ban, the popular social media platform. Despite this shift, his fellow Republicans in Congress remain firm in their stance.
” Well, he’s wrong. And by the way, he had his own executive orders and his own actions he was doing, and now … he’s suddenly flipped around on that,” said Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas, a member of the far-right Freedom Caucus.
GOP Leaders Push Forward with TikTok Ban Vote
House GOP leaders are moving ahead with a vote scheduled for Wednesday on legislation aimed at banning TikTok from U.S. app stores unless its parent company, China-based ByteDance, agrees to divest the app.
“Nobody controls how I vote on certain issues,” added Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart, R-Fla., another Trump backer.
Momentum Behind the Legislation
The Protecting Americans From Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, co-authored by Reps. Mike Gallagher, R-Wis., and Raja Krishnamoorthi, D-Ill., received overwhelming support in the Energy and Commerce Committee. President Joe Biden has endorsed the bill.
“TikTok will have to make a choice as to whether or not they stay connected to ByteDance and ultimately controlled by the Chinese Communist Party, or if they choose to sell and operate in the United States,” said Energy and Commerce Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers, R-Wash.
National Security Concerns
Lawmakers and FBI Director Christopher Wray view TikTok as a national security threat, citing concerns about potential Chinese government access to user data and influence over users’ views.
“This bill is ‘divestment from the Communist Party of China; it’s pretty simple,” said Rep. Diaz-Balart.
TikTok’s Response and Mobilization
TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew denies Chinese government control over the app and argues against claims of data access. TikTok has mobilized its users to pressure lawmakers against the bill, with pop-up messages urging users to call their representatives.
“We’ve been clear all along that their [Congress’] real goal is to ban TikTok in the United States,” said TikTok in response to lawmakers’ concerns.
Continued Lobbying Efforts
TikTok creators are lobbying House and Senate members on the economic impact of a potential ban. Shou will meet with senators as the debate moves to the upper chamber.
“This app has the potential of being a mass surveillance tool against American people,” said Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, R-Fla.