Intel Committee Head Supports TikTok Legislation, Cautions Against Chinese ‘Influence Operation
U.S. House Supports TikTok Bill Amid National Security Concerns
In a bold legislative move, House Intelligence Chairman Mike Turner has put his weight behind a bill that could usher in a U.S. ban on TikTok if its owner, ByteDance, doesn’t relinquish control of the widely-used social media platform.
During an ABC News segment, veteran anchor Martha Raddatz quizzed Turner on the urgent nature of the bill. “This legislation could lead to an outright TikTok ban,” she noted, highlighting that this is a rare topic on which Turner parts ways with former President Trump. “Given your access to classified briefings, how can you clarify the issue for the American people?”
House Intelligence Committee chair Mike Turner tells @MarthaRaddatz that he doesn’t think Americans will lose their livelihood with bill that would require that the Chinese ownership of TikTok be divested.
“This is not a ban on TikTok.” https://t.co/p5kCVrCdGw pic.twitter.com/WQATZTaSft
— This Week (@ThisWeekABC) March 17, 2024
Turner’s response was unequivocal, emphasizing the stark differences between the freedoms enjoyed in the U.S. and the authoritarian grip of China. “They’ve completely blocked platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube,” he said. He also touched upon China’s goals, alluding to a troubling future according to President Xi Jinping’s recent statements.
Underlying Threats to U.S. Security
Highlighting the dangers, Turner pointed to the ”authoritarian regime” of China and its aspirations to reshape global norms. “Xi Jinping’s partnership with Putin signals a direct challenge to democratic values,” he asserted. The critical worry, according to the congressman, lies in TikTok’s potential ”to serve as a powerful medium for China’s propaganda machine and surveillance practices.”
In response to Raddatz’s probe into ”recent evidence” of data shenanigans by TikTok, Turner responded firmly, shedding light on the “structural relationship” tying TikTok to Chinese authorities and the insidious risks to individual liberty.
The discussion also addressed the economic impact on Americans who rely on TikTok for their livelihoods. Turner reassured them, saying, “This isn’t about banning TikTok—this is about ensuring the app operates free from the tentacles of the Chinese government.”
The Future of TikTok in the U.S.
Now, all eyes turn to the Senate as it contemplates a decision that could dramatically alter the social media landscape. The bill demands ByteDance to divest its stake in TikTok within 180 days or risk a stringent clampdown. With Presidential support hinted, the outcome is pregnant with consequence.
Raddatz concluded the discussion pointing out the significant job market influenced by TikTok, prompting Turner to clarify his stance. “TikTok creators won’t lose their jobs,” he reassured. “Our aim is to cut the strings with Chinese ownership to safeguard national interests and personal privacy.”
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Turner’s firm stance on the issue serves as a stark reminder of the geopolitical ballet dancing on the fine wire of technology and governance—in the United States and beyond.
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