'Leave TikTok alone': Internet weighs in as Jimmy Kimmel warns of 'iPhone Footloose' scenario if TikTok gets banned

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: In a recent monologue, Jimmy Kimmel issued a stark warning about what he described as "a disaster looming" – the possibility of a TikTok ban.

Kimmel emphasized the significant impact such a ban would have, especially on young Americans, likening it humorously to an "iPhone Footloose."

House passes TikTok ban bill with bipartisan support

"The House of Representatives today, with an overwhelming majority passed a bill to ban TikTok in the United States. Unless the Chinese company that owns TikTok agrees to sell it," Kimmel informed his audience.

The concern stems from the House of Representatives passing a bill to ban TikTok in the United States unless the Chinese company that owns it agrees to sell.

Kimmel highlighted the bipartisan support behind the bill, jokingly remarking on the unusual unity it has brought to both sides of the aisle.

"While that’s not assured, President Joe Biden says he’ll sign it if that happens," Kimmel added, noting the potential fate of the bill in the Senate.

Jimmy Kimmel critiques absence of domestic data mining legislation

While acknowledging the concerns about TikTok's data collection practices, Kimmel pointed out the absence of similar bills addressing data mining by domestic companies.

He noted that although the bill still needs to pass the Senate, President Joe Biden has indicated he would sign it if it does.

"I guess at this point, what the hell, right? I mean, half the country supports a national security threat for President," Kimmel joked about TikTok users continuing to use the app despite concerns.

Moreover, Kimmel highlighted the suspicious timing of Donald Trump's change in stance on TikTok, echoing sentiments expressed by figures like Rachel Maddow.

"As now the bill goes to the Senate, which means the fate of every tweenaged TikToker is in the hands of a bunch of old white people with Hotmail accounts," Kimmel humorously remarked on the responsibility now placed on the Senate.

He emphasized the significance of the issue by likening it to "iPhone Footloose," a reference to the 1984 drama 'Footloose' starring Kevin Bacon about a small town that bans dancing. He humorously added that there's no Kevin Bacon to save the day.

Social Media users react to TikTok ban discussions

As discussions surrounding the potential ban of TikTok in the United States unfold, social media users have taken to platforms to share their diverse perspectives on the matter.

One user wrote, "If TikTok is a danger to National Security - Then what about Trump?"

Another added, "The only TikTok I care about right now is the one resonating from Donnie's own personal Doomsday clock."

One user commented, "Oh please, if Tik Tok goes, something else will surface. I can't stand the stupid stuff that social media puts out."

Another added, "Best to leave TikTok alone. I don't feel they touched on the real reason they want TikTok banned in the USA at all."

One user replied, "Tiktok gave con man trumph $3mn & now con man loves Tiktok."

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