> That being said, it’s not fair to single out TikTok.

> The only unique danger with TikTok is that it could be controlled by a foreign adversary, or at least could be more easily than the others.

Isn't that the entire reason given for why they are singling them out? You say it's not fair then give the exact reason why it seems to be.

I think they mean that those should also be banned, but this ban isn't about addictive technology, it's about China owning the addictive technology and being able to exert control over it if they wanted. I also am of the opinion that this addictive technology should be regulated, including domestic.

At least they should be clear it's about control.

It is fair to isolate TikTok becaues it is controlled by an adversarial world power. That's a lot different than facebook/instagram/etc pumping out addictive engagement tripe, which I think should have some serious limits on age availability using them, but that is an adjacent topic and not on the same level as a foreign power using the same techniques. The US government is giving them an out, which is to sell to a friendly foreign nation's company or to a US company, if TikTok won't take them up on it then it's time to cut them off.

The danger with TikTok is that some already used it to influence elections (recently in Romania) so it is proven to be working.

It's important to differentiate worries here.

Issue #1: The platform owner itself uses the platform algorithm(s) to manipulate public opinion

Issue #2: Third parties use the platform to manipulate public opinion (e.g. Romania)

#1 could be solved by algorithmic transparency.

#2 could be solved by more realtime transparency into content.

People not associated with the app developer publishing material on TikTok to influence elections works just as well on YouTube Shorts and Reels.