TikTok and parent company ByteDance are facing off against the United States Justice Department in court over a potential ban that could violate free expression rights for US users. The three-judge federal US Court of Appeals panel in Washington, DC started hearing oral arguments on Monday, with TikTok arguing that a ban would go against America’s open internet tradition, while the Justice Department maintains the app poses a national security threat.
The US Congress passed a bill in April requiring ByteDance to divest its US TikTok assets by January 19 or face a national ban, citing concerns of Chinese government espionage through the app. However, ByteDance denies these allegations and is seeking an injunction against the law. A survey by the Pew Research Center in July and August found declining support for a ban, with most respondents doubting it would be implemented.
Both TikTok and the Justice Department have requested a decision by December 6 to allow time for a potential Supreme Court appeal. The Biden administration prefers non-Chinese ownership over a ban, while former President Trump has stated he would not support a ban if re-elected. Young people particularly oppose a ban, with only 18 percent of US teenagers supporting it. The case highlights the ongoing debate over privacy, security, and freedom of expression in the digital age.
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