Concerns Rise Over TikTok Sale as Senators Demand Accountability

Post by : Bianca Suleiman

The future of TikTok in the United States is under intense scrutiny as lawmakers urge President Donald Trump to clarify the sale of the platform's US operations. With 170 million American users, the app is in a precarious position due to concerns about its ownership by China's ByteDance.

In September, an executive order authorized ByteDance to divest a majority stake in TikTok US to a group of American and international investors. This order postponed the enforcement of a law that could ban the app until January 20, providing a 120-day window for concluding the sale. However, the vague terms of the order have raised concerns.

Senator Ed Markey expressed his worries on Monday, emphasizing the lack of transparency from the White House regarding whether this deal sufficiently mitigates the national security risks associated with ByteDance's ongoing involvement. In a letter addressed to Trump, Markey sought information on the licensing of TikTok's algorithm and whether the US team would have independent control or rely on updates from China.

Several pivotal issues remain unaddressed: while ByteDance is set to maintain under 20% ownership in TikTok US, there are still lingering queries surrounding the transfer of algorithms, the requirement for approval from Chinese regulators, and the potential for future influence on the app's functionality. The licensing aspect is particularly troubling, with some US officials fearing that China could have an indirect role in influencing TikTok even post-sale.

John Moolenaar, a Republican US Representative who also chairs the House select committee on China, warned in October that the licensing of the algorithm could raise "serious concerns." As of now, the White House has not made any public statements addressing these ongoing uncertainties.

The situation remains dynamic, keeping lawmakers and TikTok users alike eager for decisive answers regarding the app’s future in the United States.