Since Trump signed the executive order that stopped its ban, many TikTok users have begun to notice major limitations on the platform’s left wing political content. 

Since its creation, TikTok has had policies in place to prevent political controversies on the app. They ban content about Trump, Putin, Obama, Gandhi, and many other political figures. In 2020, people’s political livestreams were getting banned because moderators believed they were harming “national honor”.  

However, Since its brief ban this past January things seem to have gotten much more restrictive. 

TikTok users report seeing a warning that reads, “Check your sources before sharing,” on left wing content or content critiquing the Trump Administration. Other TikTok users claim to have seen significantly less political content than usual since the ban. 

Tiktok’s approach has angered users, who used the app as a primary source of news. It is understandable that they want to limit possible controversies, but today, when so many people get their news off of social media, the restrictions are preventing many from getting left wing news and opinions. 

Gen Z is currently the most politically active. In November 2024, 48% of eligible voters between the ages of 18 and 24 went out to the polls, while in 2014 only 17% voted. They are also the most active on social media. The media limitations on TikTok are directly contradicting what this generation wants to see. TikTok is not meeting the expectations of its users’ increased engagement in politics.