Senators from both parties are engaged in a heated debate following Sen. Maria Cantwell's recent comments regarding the House-passed bill that would require TikTok to divest from China. Cantwell, chairwoman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, expressed skepticism about the bill's viability, sparking a wave of reactions.
Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., voiced his lack of surprise at Cantwell's stance, emphasizing his earlier predictions. The House bill, which garnered significant support in the House of Representatives, now sits with the Commerce Committee in the Senate, under Cantwell's jurisdiction.
Cantwell hinted at a potentially lengthy process, signaling her intent to conduct multiple public hearings on the TikTok bill. She raised concerns about the bill's legal soundness, suggesting it might not withstand judicial scrutiny.
Proposing an alternative approach, Cantwell introduced the GUARD Act, which would empower the Department of Commerce to regulate apps owned by foreign adversaries without mandating divestment from China.
Sen. Mitt Romney, R-Utah, criticized Cantwell's reservations, asserting the bill's importance for national security. Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, defended the bill's design, emphasizing its readiness for swift legal action.
Contrary to Cantwell's doubts, Sen. Mark Warner, D-Va., praised the House bill's approach as legally sound. Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., highlighted the precedent of asset divestment in legal matters, supporting the bill's constitutionality.
Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., reiterated the need for a vote on a bill that severs ties between TikTok and the Chinese government, underscoring the ongoing debate's significance.
The Senate remains divided on the path forward for the TikTok divestment bill, with lawmakers from both sides advocating for their respective positions as the legislative process unfolds.
