Representative Darin LaHood calls for a sweeping ban on Chinese AI app DeepSeek, citing national security concerns and the app’s ties to the Chinese Communist Party.
This is ten times worse than TikTok.
At a Glance
- Rep. LaHood advocates for banning DeepSeek from government devices
- Potential extension of ban to all American devices, similar to TikTok
- Concerns raised about Chinese Communist Party involvement in the app
- DeepSeek’s suppression of pro-Taiwan content and criticism of Chinese authorities highlighted
- LaHood emphasizes China’s strategic goal to surpass the U.S. technologically and militarily
Heightened Concerns Over Chinese AI App
Republican Representative Darin LaHood of Illinois has raised alarm bells over the Chinese AI app DeepSeek, pushing to have it banned from any government devices. During a recent appearance on “CNN News Central,” LaHood emphasized the urgent need to address national security concerns associated with the app’s links to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).
LaHood’s concerns stem from the perceived threat that DeepSeek poses to American national security interests. The Congressman draws parallels between DeepSeek and TikTok, suggesting that similar legislative action may be necessary to protect American users across all devices, not just those owned by the government.
China’s Strategic Ambitions
LaHood underscored China’s overarching strategy to overtake the United States in various domains, including technology and military capabilities. The representative’s statements reflect a growing unease among U.S. lawmakers about China’s technological advancements and their potential implications for national security.
The Congressman’s push for action against DeepSeek is rooted in a deep-seated distrust of the Chinese Communist Party’s involvement with the app and its AI capabilities. LaHood argues that the CCP’s influence over DeepSeek poses significant risks to American users and national interests.
Content Suppression and Lack of Criticism
A key point of contention highlighted by LaHood is DeepSeek’s apparent suppression of pro-Taiwan content. The app’s refusal to allow criticism of Chinese President Xi Jinping or the CCP has further fueled concerns about its allegiance to Chinese authorities and potential use as a tool for propaganda and information control.
These observations have led LaHood to conclude that broad legislative action is necessary to safeguard U.S. national interests. The representative’s call for a ban on DeepSeek reflects a growing trend among U.S. lawmakers to scrutinize and potentially restrict Chinese-owned apps and technologies that are perceived as threats to national security.
As discussions about DeepSeek’s future in the United States continue, LaHood’s stance represents a broader push for increased vigilance against potential security threats posed by foreign-owned technologies. The debate surrounding DeepSeek’s ban is likely to intensify as lawmakers weigh the balance between national security concerns and technological advancement.
