Republican Senator Calls for Answers from TikTok and ByteDance on Chinese Nationals Crossing U.S. Southern Border
In a recent development, Republican Senator Eric Schmitt of Missouri has written a letter to the CEOs of TikTok and ByteDance, seeking answers regarding videos on the platform that allegedly show users how to cross the U.S. southern border illegally. Schmitt cited “alarming” reports that Chinese nationals are utilizing TikTok and its Chinese counterpart to facilitate illegal border crossings.
Various media outlets have highlighted how migrants have been provided with detailed instructions on hiring smugglers and information about vulnerable areas along the southern border, particularly in San Diego. Additionally, Chinese immigrants have reportedly used social media influencers, private groups, and user comments to plan their journeys abroad.
Schmitt expressed deep concern over ByteDance’s contribution to the ongoing border crisis, stating that it jeopardizes national security. He emphasized the prevalence of information related to breaching the southern border on these platforms, with some nationals even sharing details about transportation methods and the bribes expected in countries along the way.
According to recent reports, Chinese nationals have become the fastest-growing migrant demographic in a key border sector. The number of Chinese nationals crossing the border has increased significantly since fiscal year 2021, with a surge to over 24,300 in fiscal 2023.
Schmitt’s letter includes requests for information regarding when the companies first observed videos promoting illegal immigration, any efforts made to mitigate the effects of such videos, and any communications with Chinese government officials regarding illegal crossings.
In response to these developments, Schmitt stated that TikTok needs to provide answers regarding its role in empowering coyotes, cartels, and human traffickers in facilitating illegal crossings at the southern border. He called for transparency regarding TikTok’s communication with the Chinese Communist Party and the extent to which the social media platform has enabled illegal immigration into the United States.
Fox reached out to TikTok and ByteDance for comment, and in a previous statement, TikTok stated that it strictly prohibits human smuggling and removes such content from its platform, reporting it to law enforcement when necessary. The company also claimed to proactively remove 93% of human trafficking content on its platform.
In related news, the House recently passed a bill aimed at pressuring ByteDance to divest from TikTok. The bipartisan bill, spearheaded by House China select committee Chair Mike Gallagher (R-Wis.) and ranking member Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-Ill.), received overwhelming support with a 352-65 vote. If signed into law, the bill would require ByteDance to divest from TikTok within 165 days of passage or risk the app being blocked in the U.S. It would also mandate that the app be purchased by a country that is not considered a U.S. adversary.
The situation at the southern border remains a significant concern for lawmakers, as the influx of illegal immigrants continues to strain national resources and threaten the safety and well-being of American citizens. The scrutiny faced by TikTok and ByteDance underscores the need for robust measures to address the ongoing crisis and protect national security interests.
