The TikTok Problem: Allies, Bans, and Defeat

TikTok has found an ally in Rep. Jamaal Bowman, a New York Democrat, who is scheduled to host a press conference at the Capitol alongside dozens of TikTok content creators to make the case for protecting the app in the U.S. Bowman staunchly defended TikTok and denounced legislation to ban the app, rejecting arguments about its dangers as “fearmongering” and saying he hasn’t seen evidence that China is using it for espionage. Critics in both political parties say the app presents risks to national security and data privacy as it is effectively controlled by the Chinese government.