Source: United States Senator for Florida Marco Rubio
America’s top intelligence officials confirmed Chinese-owned TikTok is a threat to our national security, and the app is now banned on most federal devices. Yet recipients of federal funds—including airports, train stations, universities, and more—continue to partner and advertise with TikTok.
U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Joni Ernst introduced the No Funds for Enablers of Adversarial Propaganda Act to deny federal funds to any individual or entity if it has an agreement, partnership, or advertisement with TikTok.
- “Chinese-owned TikTok is a threat, but some entities, including our nation’s airports, are still willing to accept advertising dollars from the company. They are either naive, greedy, or both. Regardless, they shouldn’t receive taxpayer dollars if they are going to accept money from or partner with TikTok. These companies need to stop enabling Chinese Communist Party propaganda and espionage efforts.” – Senator Rubio
- “Make no mistake – TikTok is an insidious platform weaponized by the Chinese Communist Party to snoop on Americans and negatively influence our children. This bill rightfully ensures that American taxpayers aren’t forced to foot the bill for ads that bolster the CCP’s toxic platform. I’ll always fight to protect taxpayer dollars and our national security.” – Senator Ernst
Flashback … In February, Rubio and Senator Angus King (I-ME) introduced bipartisan legislation that would block and prohibit all transactions from any social media company in, or under the influence of, China, Russia, and several other foreign countries of concern unless that company fully divests of dangerous foreign ownership. The legislation remains the only bipartisan, bicameral bill that would actually ban TikTok.
Looking forward … Rubio will continue to push for federal action to prohibit Chinese-owned TikTok from operating in the United States.