Sean Fieler - Chairman, American Principles Project | https://americanprinciplesproject.org
The American Principles Project (APP) has thrown its support behind the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, a bill aimed at restricting the usage of ByteDance-owned apps like TikTok in the United States. Following the unanimous vote by the House Committee on Energy and Commerce in favor of the legislation, Jon Schweppe, the policy director at American Principles Project, voiced his endorsement.
Schweppe commended the committee for passing the bill, emphasizing the importance of protecting children online. He stated, “We should all be supportive of efforts to protect kids online." Schweppe highlighted the risks associated with TikTok's ties to the Chinese Communist Party, asserting, "The danger of TikTok is obvious — we cannot give the Chinese Communist Party unfettered access to our kids."
Furthermore, Schweppe pointed out the negative impact of the TikTok algorithm in America, suggesting that it is contributing to societal issues. He expressed concern that the CCP's influence through platforms like TikTok could lead to harmful outcomes, including the promotion of unhealthy relationships and ideological divisions. Schweppe stressed the urgency of passing the legislation to curb the CCP's influence in the country, stating, "We cannot afford to allow the CCP such a continued, significant influence in our country."
In conclusion, APP is urging the full House and Senate to swiftly approve the bill to sever ties between Chinese-controlled apps and the American market.