Pence urges Congress to act on China’s TikTok, criticizes flip-flopping Republicans
Former Vice President Mike Pence Urges Action Against Chinese-Controlled TikTok
In a powerful op-ed published by Fox News, former Vice President Mike Pence is calling on Congress and President Joe Biden to take immediate action against the Chinese Communist Party-controlled TikTok. Pence emphasizes that allowing TikTok to operate in the United States under CCP control is completely unacceptable.
“We would never have let Russia run the nightly news during the Cold War, and we certainly can’t let China do the same now. Allowing TikTok to continue to spew CCP-sanctioned propaganda poisoning the minds of American children is just wrong. Enough is enough.”
As Congress prepares to vote on the Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, which would require TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, to sell the company or face a ban in the United States, Pence’s op-ed serves as a timely reminder of the urgent need for action.
TikTok is already under criminal investigation for allegedly spying on American citizens. It has been revealed that the app steals users’ data from their phones, even if they have never used the app, and continues to collect and transfer users’ data even if the app is deleted, according to a report from ABC News.
Pence also highlights the contrast between the actions of the Trump-Pence administration and the current administration. He points out that the previous administration took action against TikTok, while the Biden administration has seemingly surrendered the fight and even joined the platform during the campaign.
“Today, every politician likes to talk tough on China. Unfortunately, too many politicians talk a big game but crack under the pressure of wealthy donors or personal grudges — including my former running mate. When lobbyists for a company controlled by the Chinese Communist Party can turn a former president against his own political legacy, we should all be concerned.”
Pence’s reference to lobbyists appears to be a direct criticism of former President Donald Trump, who met with billionaire Jeff Yass, a major stakeholder in ByteDance. Trump, who initially led the charge to ban TikTok, now claims that the country faces a “tough decision” regarding the app.
“If you get rid of TikTok, Facebook and Zuckerschmuck will double their business,” Trump posted on social media. “I don’t want Facebook, who cheated in the last election, doing better. They are a true enemy of the people.”
It is worth noting that other Republicans, such as pharmaceutical executive Vivek Ramaswamy, have also changed their stance on TikTok. Ramaswamy, who previously referred to TikTok as “digital fentanyl,” is now against banning the app. This shift in position coincides with significant donations from Yass, who has given nearly $5 million to Ramaswamy’s Super PAC during the Republican Party presidential primary.
Similarly, Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) faced criticism after expressing opposition to banning TikTok. The New York Post reported that Yass has contributed $10 million to Paul since 2020.
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What actions does Pence recommend Congress and President Biden take to address the risks associated with Chinese-controlled apps like TikTok
Oves to dance and sing on TikTok — even President Biden and Vice President Harris. But instead of leading the American people in full-throated opposition to TikTok and China’s espionage, they’ve embraced the platform and the propaganda. It’s time to take a stand.”
Pence argues that allowing TikTok to operate under CCP control poses a grave threat to national security and privacy. He accuses the app of censoring content that is critical of the Chinese government and spreading misinformation to influence public opinion. He also raises concerns about TikTok’s data collection practices and the potential for the Chinese government to exploit this information for nefarious purposes.
Moreover, Pence warns about the long-term consequences of inaction. He cites the Chinese Communist Party’s broader ambitions to dominate emerging technologies and control global information flow. Allowing TikTok to continue operating in the United States without stringent regulations would only serve to further empower the CCP in achieving its goals.
Pence concludes his op-ed by urging Congress and President Biden to take decisive action against TikTok and other Chinese-controlled apps. He calls on Congress to pass the Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act to safeguard national security and protect American citizens. He also implores President Biden to demonstrate strong leadership and stand up against the CCP’s attempts to undermine American democracy and values.
In conclusion, former Vice President Mike Pence’s op-ed highlights the urgent need for action against Chinese-controlled TikTok. He emphasizes the threat it poses to national security, privacy, and democratic values. Pence’s call for Congress and President Biden to take immediate action serves as a reminder that the issue of Chinese influence in American technology is far from resolved and requires continued attention and vigilance.
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