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President Joe Biden was caught on TikTok competing in a putting challenge with 13-year-old Hurley “HJ” Coleman IV at a golf course in Michigan. The Biden campaign utilized TikTok during the 2020 election and continues to work with influencers, despite signing legislation that could potentially ban the app in the U.S. Some avid TikTok users criticize the president for the inconsistency of supporting a TikTok ban while simultaneously using the platform for campaign purposes. The Biden campaign defends its use of TikTok, stating the importance of reaching voters where they are, including platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Critics of TikTok cite concerns over Chinese ownership by ByteDance, stating it gives Beijing influence over narratives and U.S. user data. Former President Donald Trump, now publicly opposing a TikTok ban, previously issued an executive order to ban the app. The White House has not established an official TikTok account, yet the Biden campaign has joined the platform to spread its political message. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre emphasizes that the TikTok legislation signed by Biden is not a ban but rather about national security. About one-third of U.S. adults under 30 regularly get news from TikTok, with younger adults more likely to oppose a ban on the app in the U.S. Despite potential bans, leading Democratic super PAC Priorities USA is investing in TikTok influencers to create pro-Biden content. Biden’s standing with young people has declined, especially among those critical of his administration’s policies. Critics argue that divestment legislation surrounding TikTok could further contribute to political challenges for the Biden administration.
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