Congressman Mike Gallagher, Republican of Wisconsin, has issued a stark warning about the dangers of TikTok, particularly regarding the rise of anti-Semitic content on the Chinese-owned social media platform.
Gallagher, who has previously referred to TikTok as “digital fentanyl”, highlighted the alarming trend of anti-Jewish hate speech and propaganda being spread on the app. He emphasized that TikTok, with its growing popularity among young Americans, could become the dominant news platform in the country.
The congressman stressed that the Chinese Communist Party, which controls TikTok, could easily weaponize the platform to spread anti-American propaganda and deepen divisions in the United States. He urged people to pay attention to the CCP’s actions around the world and recognize the threat they pose.
Meanwhile, Jewish social media influencer Eitan Bernath has joined forces with other influencers and Hollywood figures, including Judy Gold and Amy Schumer, to sign an open letter to TikTok. The letter accuses the platform of not providing a safe environment for Jewish users. Bernath highlighted the rise of anti-Semitism on TikTok, saying it goes beyond hurt feelings and raises valid concerns about physical and digital safety. He revealed that people have had their personal information leaked, including phone numbers, family details and addresses, and have even received death threats.
In response to questions, TikTok claimed to have taken steps to protect its community and prevent the spread of hate. However, the trend has caught the attention of leading lawmakers, including Sen. Marsha Blackburn, R-Tennessee, who expressed no surprise that TikTok was pushing pro-Hamas content.
Rep. Gallagher also addressed the growing division within the Democratic Party over the conflict between Hamas and Israel. While he praised President Biden’s rhetoric on the issue, he urged caution in allowing the more radical wing of the party to speak out or demonstrate in support of Hamas. Gallagher stressed that such actions, if they spread to the mainstream, could pose a major problem and undermine US support for Israel.
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