A recent Pew Research Center survey has found that half of Americans support the idea of the US government banning TikTok, while 22% are opposed and a remaining 28% are unsure. The survey was conducted before and after TikTok CEO Shou Chew testified before Congress on March 23, highlighting the company's challenges in convincing the public that TikTok does not pose a national security risk. However, the survey also revealed that a significant portion of the population, nearly 28%, remains uncertain about whether or not TikTok should be banned.
Younger Americans (aged 18-29) are more likely to oppose the idea of banning TikTok, with 46% against it, compared to 15% of those aged 50-64 and just 4% of those 65 or older. TikTok users are also more likely to be opposed to a ban (56%) than those who do not use the app (11%). Surprisingly, 19% of TikTok users expressed support for a US government ban.
Those who are aware of TikTok's connections to China are more likely to support a ban (60%) than those who are not aware of the link (27%). However, the survey found that most Americans (64%) are aware of TikTok's China connection.
The survey also revealed a partisan gap, with 60% of Republicans or those who lean Republican in favor of banning TikTok, compared to 43% of Democrats or those who lean Democratic. These findings are consistent with other recent polls conducted by The Washington Post and CBS News-YouGov.
Overall, the survey highlights the ongoing debate over whether TikTok poses a national security threat and whether the app should be banned in the US. While opinions are divided, it is clear that the issue remains a contentious one, with many Americans still uncertain about which side to take.