Overview:

The potential banning of TikTok has been a popular topic of discussion in recent months, especially in the United States. The fan-loving app, owned by the Chinese company, ByteDance, has faced much scrutiny over concerns about user data privacy and national security risks associated with a foreign-owned app. In August 2020, President Donald Trump signed executive orders that would effectively ban TikTok in the US, citing these concerns. The implementation of the ban however was blocked by courts and a deal was later reached between Oracle and Walmart to acquire a minority stake in US operations related to TikTok. This specific deal was meant to address the national security concerns, as well as allow the app to continue operating in the United States. As of this month, TikTok remains available for all users in the country and around the world. Many are making videos about the ban and spreading the news over the app.  It is worth noting that the political and regulatory landscape surrounding the app could continue to evolve in the future. In addition to  further developments and changes related to potential bans or restrictions. 

Responses: 

Progressive lawmakers are becoming the biggest defenders of TikTok on Capitol Hill as the discussion about the app shutting down emerges. ByteDance has led to many fears among some lawmakers which helps the subject of Chinese laws regarding data in the US being handled. Representative Mark Pocan, a former chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus stated, “I think what you’re seeing is the progressive caucus coming out, you know, one, on behalf of the First Amendment, two, more importantly, that we want to do something across all social media platforms around privacy of data.” Both chamber members have two options, banning the app or giving the Biden administration the ability to do this. However, a small group of Democrats and at least one Republican is pushing back against the prohibition.