Photo by Solen Feyissa on Unsplash

Introduction

TikTok, one of the most popular social media platforms in the United States, is set to be banned on January 19, 2025. This follows a federal appeals court decision dismissing TikTok’s attempt to overturn a ban imposed by President Biden in April. If ByteDance, TikTok’s parent company, does not divest its ownership to non-Chinese companies, TikTok will cease operations in the U.S. The looming ban could have significant repercussions for the U.S. economy, particularly affecting the seven million small and medium-sized businesses that rely on the app to engage customers and generate revenue.

Conservative Perspective

From a conservative viewpoint, national security concerns are paramount. Many conservatives assert that platforms like TikTok compromise user data, reflecting an urgent need for stringent regulatory measures. The ownership by ByteDance, a Chinese company, raises fears regarding user data privacy and potential influence from the Chinese government. This perspective supports the ban as a necessary step to protect American citizens’ interests and national security. Furthermore, proponents argue that this decision could incentivize home-grown technology solutions and platforms, reducing U.S. dependence on foreign technology.

Liberal Perspective

On the contrary, liberals express concerns about the economic repercussions of the ban. According to Oxford Economics, TikTok contributed $24.2 billion to the U.S. GDP in 2023, with small businesses generating $15 billion in revenue through the app. These businesses could face existential threats with the ban, especially as many rely heavily on TikTok’s unique audience and advertising model. Liberals may argue that instead of an outright ban, stronger regulatory frameworks to address data privacy and ownership concerns might be a balanced approach, protecting both national security and the economic opportunities the platform provides.

Conclusion

As the TikTok ban approaches, the conflicting perspectives illustrate the complexity of policy decisions that balance national security with economic vitality. While conservatives emphasize safeguarding national interests, liberals focus on mitigating the potential economic disruption. The forthcoming Supreme Court review could yet alter the outcome, seeking a resolution that acknowledges the intricate web of modern economics and security concerns. The decision will undoubtedly set a precedent for how the U.S. navigates the intersection of technology, business, and foreign policy in the digital age.