SC Oklahoma News

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) released a statement after voting in favor of H.R. 7521, the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversaries Controlled Applications Act. The bipartisan bill aims to prevent foreign adversaries from targeting and surveilling Americans through apps like TikTok. Congressman Cole clarified that the legislation does not necessarily ban TikTok, but offers the app the opportunity to operate in the U.S. if it separates itself from the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and its parent company, ByteDance.

"This is simply a matter of national security," emphasized Congressman Cole, highlighting the importance of safeguarding American citizens from foreign surveillance and manipulation. He emphasized the need to prevent the Chinese government and other adversaries from accessing private information. The legislation presents TikTok with a clear choice – either sever ties with the CCP and continue operating in the U.S. or face consequences.

"I will always vote to keep our nation safe from foreign adversaries," stated Congressman Cole, expressing hope that TikTok will opt to disconnect from the CCP to ensure its presence in the country. The bill aims to address concerns regarding the Chinese Communist Party's use of TikTok as a surveillance network and the distribution of sensors across the United States.