TikTok ban: U-M experts can comment

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EXPERTS ADVISORY

University of Michigan experts are available to discuss the U.S. Supreme Court's decision to uphold a federal law banning TikTok on national security grounds beginning Sunday, unless the popular video app is sold by ByteDance, its China-based parent company.

[Link]Oliver Haimson

Oliver Haimson is an assistant professor at the School of Information and the Digital Studies Institute at the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts.

"Today's SCOTUS ruling highlights a decision to prioritize national security over free speech when these two fundamental U.S. values came into conflict. However, this ruling will have substantial repercussions," he said. "When TikTok shuts down on Sunday, many Americans will lose a platform that plays a crucial role in their lives-not only for entertainment but also for information seeking, community-building and self-expression. The ban also sets precedent for the government to more easily ban platforms in the future, which could potentially further encroach on free speech rights.

"The ban's impact will be particularly pronounced for marginalized groups, such as LGBTQ+ people, who often turn to online platforms to find community and resources that they cannot as easily find in-person. TikTok's closest competitor, Instagram Reels, may not be a viable alternative given Meta's recent anti-LGBTQ+ policy changes.

"Further, this ban will have economic consequences for small businesses and content creators who rely on TikTok for income. This ruling underscores the far-reaching implications of balancing security concerns with digital rights and economic realities."

Contact: [email protected]

[Link]Justin Huang

Justin Huang is an assistant professor of marketing at the Ross School of Business.

"With the Supreme Court ruling today to uphold the ban, all eyes turn to incoming President Trump," he said. "Trump would need to enforce the law upon taking office, yet he has expressed opposition to the ban and an interest in negotiating a sale of the app.

"This past election cycle saw Trump openly embrace nontraditional media outlets such as podcasts and influencers, winning him significant ground with young American voters. A potential rescue of TikTok could solidify his support with this key demographic and cement Trump's legacy of reorienting the Republicans as an anti-establishment party.

Contact: [email protected]

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