Haley slams Ramaswamy over TikTok ties to Chinese government

At the second GOP debate, Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley took the opportunity to criticize fellow contender Vivek Ramaswamy for his stance on the popular social media app TikTok.

Haley, a staunch conservative and former United Nations ambassador, did not hold back in her criticism of Ramaswamy's move to join TikTok despite its ban on government-issued devices due to concerns about its ties to the Chinese government.

In a fiery exchange on stage, Haley stated, “This is infuriating, because TikTok is one of the most dangerous social media apps that we could have. And … honestly, every time I hear you, I feel a little bit dumber for what you say,” taking a direct swipe at the 38-year-old entrepreneur.

Ramaswamy defended his decision, saying that in order to win elections, it is important to reach the next generation of young Americans where they are, even if it means using a controversial platform.

But Haley was unswayed, emphasizing the potential dangers of TikTok and China's involvement. She highlighted the fact that 150 million people are on the app, leaving them vulnerable to having their personal information and data accessed by the Chinese government.

Fox News Presidential Debate at the President Regan Library, September 27th 2023.

During the debate, Haley also referenced her first TV campaign advertisement for the 2024 cycle, which highlighted her tough stance on “Communist China.” She made it clear that she believes the country will eventually be on the “ash heap of history.”

In a final blow to Ramaswamy, Haley declared, “We can’t trust you. We can’t have TikTok in our kids’ lives.”

The sparring between the two candidates highlighted the tension within the Republican party over the use of Chinese-owned apps like TikTok. While some, like Ramaswamy, see it as a useful tool for reaching younger voters, others fear it as a potential threat to national security.

As the 2024 election cycle heats up, the debate over TikTok and China's influence looks to be a major point of contention among Republican contenders. With Haley and Ramaswamy firmly on opposite sides of the issue, it remains to be seen how this will play out in the race for the party's nomination.