This type of protectionism could really backfire on the United States. We are a heavy net importer, and I don’t think our Congressmen understand what kind of can of worms this opens. The cynic in me wonders if Microsoft is behind all of this, as they stand to gain the most from a forced sale.
Not just a net importer, but also the main exporter of algorithmic feeds. If the US bans TikTok for fear of China manipulating public opinion via their algorithmic feed, lots of other countries might think twice whether they want to allow the same influence from the US via Twitter, Facebook, Threads, Youtube, Instagram, etc.
What’s even worse is that our elected officials had an opportunity to protect consumers and their data. Instead it’s a front for regulatory capture. I used to think it was malice but it really must be incompetence. Astronomical levels of incompetence enabled by an uneducated and complacent public.
I wouldn't say no to more localised social media platforms that revolve around a country or region- who really needs to hear about what americans in beverly hills are doing all the time. Like line in japan or something
