As the debate over TikTok’s influence in American politics intensifies, President Trump is once again at the center of a contentious issue. The app, owned by Chinese company ByteDance, has been a focal point of national security concerns due to its potential ties to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). With the 2028 elections on the horizon, many are urging Trump to take decisive action against what some describe as a “ticking time bomb.”
The urgency of the situation was underscored by the recent electoral victory of Zohran Mamdani in the Democratic New York mayoral primary. Mamdani’s success is attributed not just to his political platform but to his adept use of social media, particularly TikTok, to engage and mobilize voters. This development has reignited discussions about the app’s role in shaping political landscapes and the potential risks of foreign influence.
The Rise of TikTok in Politics
Zohran Mamdani’s campaign is a case study in the power of social media, particularly platforms like TikTok, to influence elections. His team expertly crafted messages that resonated with younger voters, utilizing short-form videos to capture attention and drive engagement. This strategy highlights a growing trend where political success is increasingly tied to mastery of the digital attention economy.
According to political analysts, Mamdani’s victory is a harbinger of future electoral strategies.
“If 2016 was the Facebook election, and 2024 was the podcast election, 2028 and beyond may very well be the short-form video elections,”
noted one expert.
Security Concerns and Regulatory Challenges
The security concerns surrounding TikTok stem from its Chinese ownership, which critics argue could allow the CCP to manipulate the app’s algorithm to favor certain political narratives or candidates. This fear is compounded by the broader geopolitical rivalry between the United States and China, as both nations vie for global influence.
While some argue that the issues with TikTok are not unique and apply to other social media platforms, the app’s connection to China adds a layer of complexity.
“China controls the algorithm. If they want to boost another 300 Mamdanis to start winning more elections across the country, they can do so with the flip of a switch,”
warn security experts.
Trump’s Dilemma and Potential Solutions
President Trump has faced criticism for delaying a definitive resolution to the TikTok issue. Initially, he proposed a ban during his first term, citing national security threats. However, political and legal challenges, along with potential business deals, have stalled decisive action.
Despite these delays, there is a growing consensus among legal scholars that continuing to postpone the ban may not be legally sustainable.
“It’s a bad look to reverse course after getting donor money from a big TikTok investor,”
argue political commentators, emphasizing the need for Trump to uphold his campaign promises to curb Chinese influence.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Social Media in Politics
The implications of TikTok’s influence extend beyond the current administration. As social media continues to evolve, so too will its impact on political processes. The potential for foreign entities to shape political narratives through digital platforms poses a significant challenge for policymakers.
In the meantime, experts advocate for comprehensive regulatory frameworks that address the unique challenges posed by foreign-owned social media platforms. This includes not only TikTok but any app that could potentially serve as a conduit for foreign influence in American politics.
As the situation unfolds, the pressure is on President Trump to act decisively. Whether through a ban, a sale to an American company, or increased regulatory oversight, the need for action is clear. The stakes are high, and the outcome will likely set a precedent for how the United States navigates the intersection of technology, politics, and national security in the digital age.
