Should the Government Ban TikTok?

Should the Government Ban TikTok?

Here’s The Scoop

The Democrat-controlled Senate has recently approved a $95 billion package that does more than just provide aid to U.S. allies like Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan. It also paves the way for a possible ban on TikTok, the Chinese-owned social media platform that has taken the American youth by storm.

The legislation passed with a 79-18 vote, with both Democrats and Republicans supporting the bill. This comes despite claims from the likes of Senators Mike Lee (R-UT) and Bernie Sanders (I-VT) that the bill is a “$95 billion betrayal.” Their outcry fell on deaf ears, as the legislation now awaits President Biden’s signature.

While the aid package includes funds to assist Ukraine in its war with Russia, help Israel in its fight against Hamas, and provide humanitarian aid, it also contains a section targeting ByteDance, the Chinese company that owns TikTok. The legislation gives ByteDance up to a year to divest from TikTok or face a ban in the United States.

The banning of TikTok has been a long-standing issue among conservatives, who argue that the app poses a threat to national security due to its Chinese ownership. TikTok, however, is expected to sue, likely prolonging the process.

Despite the bipartisanship displayed in the Senate, the bill has been a source of controversy. Senator Lee criticized the fact that amendments to the bill were not allowed, preventing measures like securing the border or preventing tax dollars from going to Hamas.

What do you think? Let us know by participating in our poll, or join the discussion in the comment section below!

Source