Senator Marco Rubio, the top Republican on the Intelligence Committee, criticized the Chinese Communist Party’s control over popular American app TikTok, calling it dangerously short-sighted. He expressed support for a new law that would require TikTok’s Chinese owner to sell the app, stating that it is a good move for America. The Chinese Foreign Ministry criticized the legislation, stating that there is no evidence that TikTok poses a threat to national security.
The battle over TikTok, used by 170 million people in the United States, is emblematic of the broader technology and internet issues between Washington and Beijing. Recent actions by Beijing, such as ordering Apple to remove certain platforms from its app store, highlight the ongoing tensions between the two countries. TikTok plans to challenge the bill on First Amendment grounds, asserting that it protects freedom of speech.
Despite assurances that user data is not shared with the Chinese government, TikTok is facing pressure to sell its US operations. The Senate recently voted in favor of the bill attached to a measure providing military aid, paving the way for the app’s sale. This legislation could set a precedent for addressing security threats posed by foreign-owned apps. ByteDance, TikTok’s parent company, will have 270 days to complete the sale under the new law.
The complexity of the sale process has raised concerns about the feasibility of completing it by early 2025. Some critics argue that the legislation amounts to a de facto ban on TikTok, raising questions about censorship and government control over social media. The bill’s implications could impact the upcoming presidential campaign, with potential ramifications for young voters.