Despite the possibility of TikTok being banned, Joe Biden’s reelection campaign plans to continue using the platform as part of its outreach strategy, according to a campaign official who spoke on Wednesday.
This decision comes as many young and left-leaning TikTok users, a significant part of the platform’s audience, express concerns about Biden’s approach to the Gaza conflict. This has led to protests on college campuses nationwide.
Recognizing the importance of reaching voters in today’s diverse media environment, the official stressed the campaign’s commitment to engaging with people online, including on TikTok.
To address security concerns, the campaign intends to implement stronger measures when using the app.
While there are worries about TikTok’s potential impact on national security, which the White House has raised, Biden’s campaign team members not involved in national security are allowed to have the app on their phones.
Joe Biden plans to eliminate students loans (Via David Southee/Getty Images)
The @bidenhq account has posted nearly 120 videos and amassed over 306,000 followers by sharing content featuring Biden on TikTok regularly.
ByteDance, TikTok’s parent company, plans to challenge the legislation that could lead to a ban, arguing it violates First Amendment rights and expressing confidence in winning legal battles.
The debate over TikTok reflects broader tensions between the U.S. and China concerning technology and the internet.
Former President Donald Trump tried to ban TikTok during his term, citing national security issues, but court actions prevented the ban from being enforced.
Despite potential challenges, Biden’s campaign does not expect significant negative effects among young voters.
The campaign stresses the importance of engaging with young people and has launched a substantial voter outreach effort supported by 15 youth organizations endorsing Biden.
Under new legislation, ByteDance has nine months to sell TikTok or face a ban in the U.S., with a possible extension of up to 90 days. However, any ban is unlikely to take effect before January, pending legal developments.
