A bill is being considered by Congress to require ByteDance to divest from TikTok due to concerns about the company’s ties to China. Critics have raised fears that ByteDance, which owns TikTok, could potentially use the platform to interfere in US elections. The Chinese Embassy has reportedly lobbied against this bill, adding to Congress’s frustration with TikTok.
Over a year of deliberation has led Congress to consider this bill, which would force ByteDance to separate from TikTok within 180 days or face a ban in the US. Former TikTok employees have accused ByteDance of sending sensitive US user information to China, despite assurances that American user data is safe. This has led some users to question whether they can trust the app with their personal information.
TikTok has been actively fighting against the proposed legislation, encouraging its US-based users to contact their local legislators in opposition. CEO Shou Zi Chew even traveled to Washington, DC to join the lobbying efforts. However, these efforts have not stopped criticism of ByteDance’s connections to the Chinese government and concerns about potential risks it poses to US national security.
President Joe Biden has indicated that he would sign the bill if it reaches his desk, even though it could impact his chances for reelection. The ongoing debate around TikTok’s ties to China and potential risks it poses continues to be a point of concern for lawmakers. If enacted, this bill could have significant implications for both ByteDance and TikTok users in the United States.