Washington, D.C. – The future of popular video app TikTok in the United States is facing its most serious threat yet, with Congress making moves that could lead to a nationwide ban if the app’s Chinese owner does not sell it. The House recently passed legislation that attaches the fate of TikTok to a foreign aid bill supporting Ukraine and Israel, while also giving TikTok more time to find a buyer. President Biden has expressed support for the bill, signaling a fast-track process towards making it a law.
If the bill goes through, it would mark the first time the U.S. government has the power to shut down an entire social media platform. TikTok has strongly opposed the bill, calling it an unconstitutional attack on free speech that threatens the service relied on by millions in the U.S.
The concerns driving the crackdown on TikTok revolve around national security, with worries that the Chinese government could use the app for propaganda or surveillance on American users. However, no concrete evidence has been presented to support these fears, despite the ownership of TikTok by Chinese tech giant ByteDance.
One of the major obstacles in the potential sale of TikTok is its algorithm, a key asset owned by ByteDance. The Chinese government’s control over this technology adds a layer of complexity to any acquisition deal, with experts questioning the feasibility of such a transaction given Beijing’s stance.
The financial aspect of the sale is also a significant challenge, as TikTok’s massive popularity and value make it an acquisition target that only a few tech giants could afford. The uncertainty surrounding the future ownership of TikTok adds to the complexity of the situation, with antitrust concerns looming over potential buyers.
Despite the hurdles and uncertainties, analysts believe that the latest congressional actions may delay any decisive moves regarding TikTok’s fate, potentially pushing the resolution beyond the upcoming presidential election. This prolonged timeline allows for more time to explore viable solutions while keeping the issue at the forefront of national discussions.