Elon Musk opposes TikTok ban in US, citing free speech

Firmly opposing the proposed ban of TikTok in the US, Elon Musk argued that it suppresses freedom of speech and expression and goes against America's moral values and ethics.

“In my opinion, TikTok should not be banned in the USA, even though such a ban may benefit the 𝕏 platform,” Musk posted on X.

“Doing so would be contrary to freedom of speech and expression. It is not what America stands for.”

Musk’s statement comes after the House passed the obstacle on the procedural aspect, which will enable a formal vote that might be conducted on the 6th of May, starting, at the latest, on Saturday, on the legislative package that will be used to deliver $95 billion to Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan.

The proposal is finalised with a fourth set of bills.

The Tesla CEO in the past also had taken a stand against TikTok's ban in the US.

Last month, Musk said that the legislation extends beyond concerns about national security over a Chinese-owned app, he said in a post on X.

“This law is not just about TikTok, it is about censorship and government control! If it were just about TikTok, it would only cite “foreign control” as the issue, but it does not,” he argued in the post.

Why House is considering a ban on TikTok

The Lawmakers worry that TikTok, owned by the Chinese company ByteDance, could be used by the Chinese government to collect user data or spread propaganda. They fear this data could be used for spying or to manipulate American public opinion.

The House approved a resolution, which got support and was aimed to stop the functioning of TikTok in the US.

The proposed TikTok ban under the foreign investment review process gives President Biden significantly more time to act. The new provision allows for a total of 270 days, with an optional 90-day extension, compared to the initial bill's 180-day deadline.

(With inputs from agencies)