Lawmakers weigh control, not exile, as platform faces national scrutiny
Despite months of speculation about a possible ban, TikTok is unlikely to disappear from American app stores. Instead, U.S. lawmakers are exploring more intricate options — including forced divestment, algorithmic oversight, and data localization — that could reshape how the platform operates without removing it entirely.
The debate centers on national security concerns, particularly the app’s Chinese ownership and its handling of user data. Proposed legislation would require TikTok to separate its U.S. operations from its parent company, ByteDance, or face severe restrictions.
Digital rights advocates warn that such measures could set precedents for broader government control over tech platforms.
“This isn’t just about TikTok — it’s about who controls the digital public square,” says policy analyst Jordan Kim.
