Press Releases

WASHINGTON — Today, Congresswoman Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.) released the following statement after the House voted to pass the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, H.R. 7521: 

“Every American should be able to enjoy social media platforms safely. I whole-heartedly support the individuals and small businesses who have found creative, innovative ways of making a living through social media, and those who use social media for enjoyment and to connect with communities from all over the world.

“However, Congress has an obligation to take any threats to our national security, health and democracy seriously. I share the concerns regarding the Chinese government’s ability to compel ByteDance to turn over its data on American users. This potential acquisition of American data by the Chinese government would undermine our national security, allow for the exploitation and manipulation of user data, and be harmful to American interests. It is for these reasons that I voted in support of H.R. 7521, which would require TikTok to divest and stay operational in the United States under different leadership. 

“Social media platforms have a responsibility to safeguard consumers’ data and create spaces where privacy and sensitive user information are protected – not compromised. This is especially true for our children and youth, who are constantly exposed to dangerous content and habit-forming practices that can be detrimental to their mental health and safety. All of this is why I have championed legislation to reign in the manipulative practices these companies employ, known as dark patterns. I will continue to do my part on the Energy and Commerce Committee to demand a comprehensive data privacy law to finally bring accountability to Big Tech and push for guardrails that don’t infringe on the well-being of the American people.”

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