The Dangerous Debate: Should TikTok be Banned or Should Beijing Control Our Broadcast Networks?

In the ever-changing world of entertainment, the influence of Beijing over Hollywood has been a hotly debated topic for a long time. With the decline of the Chinese box office, filmmakers have regained some creative freedom. However, a new form of influence has emerged: TikTok. This social media platform, owned by a Chinese company, has become extremely popular in the United States, especially among young people. In fact, TikTok has been labeled “digital fentanyl” by Rep. Mike Gallagher, who has been campaigning to ban the app. TikTok’s influence goes beyond Hollywood, shaping the perspectives of young Americans and potentially affecting elections.

The platform is heavily scrutinized by Washington due to its ownership and oversight by the Chinese government. Many believe that Beijing could use TikTok to study voter data and potentially influence the 2024 election. With a third of those under 30 relying solely on TikTok for news, the app has a significant impact on shaping the opinions of future generations of Americans.

Given the potential threat to American interests, calls to ban TikTok have grown louder. Proponents argue that banning the app would protect national interests and ensure consistency in policies. With precedence in banning foreign-controlled broadcast networks, the ban on TikTok seems straightforward and necessary.

Some argue that banning TikTok would disrupt the communities built on the platform, but advocates believe that the resilience of the creative community will lead to the rise of new platforms that align with American values and freedoms. This ban would also promote American technological ingenuity and protect the integrity of American elections.

In sum, the call to ban TikTok reflects concerns about the platform’s potential to be manipulated by a foreign government and the need to protect American interests. It’s an effort to ensure that the means of content distribution remains free from foreign influence and promotes reciprocity in the bilateral relationship. Ultimately, the ban aims to safeguard the creative freedoms of Hollywood and protect the integrity of American elections.