Jackson Purchase News

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) addressed the Senate floor today, expressing concerns about TikTok's connection to the People's Republic of China. McConnell emphasized the impact of America's adversaries on the nation's security, stating, “America’s adversaries are working overtime to undermine our interests and erode the alliances that protect them.”

McConnell highlighted the widespread use of TikTok in the United States, pointing out that "one hundred seventy million Americans are active users of a social media platform that the People’s Republic of China treats as a tool of surveillance and propaganda." He raised alarms about the platform's ties to the Chinese government, referencing a leaked recording where TikTok officials admitted, "Everything is seen in China."

The Senator criticized TikTok for promoting concerning trends under Beijing's influence, mentioning instances where the platform glorified terrorists and propagated dangerous ideas. McConnell stressed the importance of addressing the issue, stating, "Requiring the divestment of Beijing-influenced entities from TikTok would land squarely within established Constitutional precedent."

McConnell clarified that the focus is on conduct rather than content when it comes to reining in PRC influence on platforms like TikTok. He emphasized the urgency of the matter, calling for bipartisan action to remove a tool of coercion and espionage from the hands of America's strategic rivals.

In conclusion, McConnell affirmed his commitment to protecting the nation's interests and children from threats posed by entities with ties to the People's Republic of China.