Is time running out for TikTok?

Some members of Congress recently introduced legislation that would give President Biden the power to ban TikTok, despite the company’s best efforts to get on Congress’ good side.

How did an app known for viral dance videos find itself in the middle of a national security debate?

On the show today, Forbes tech reporter Emily Baker-White explains why some members of Congress see TikTok as a national security threat, how real that threat actually is, and what an all-out ban would even look like. Plus, how it felt to be spied on by TikTok.

In the News Fix: How a viral parody tweet may have helped bring down insulin prices. Also, Kai Ryssdal explains what the latest round of job cuts at Meta say about the larger tech industry. And, a little Silicon Valley Bank update, for good measure.

Later, one listener shares their experience with rooftop solar panels. And, this week’s answer to the Make Me Smart question comes from a listener who was wrong about the volatile nature of the tech industry.

Here’s everything we talked about today:

“TikTok’s master plan to win over Washington” from Vox

“Senate, White House push new bipartisan bill that could ban TikTok” from Politico

“EXCLUSIVE: TikTok Spied On Forbes Journalists” from Forbes

“TikTok tries to sell ‘Project Texas’ as it fights for survival in the U.S.” from NBC News

“How A TikTok Ban Would Work — And How TikTok Could Fight Back” from Forbes

“Novo Nordisk to slash US insulin prices, following move by Eli Lilly” from Reuters

Tweet from @MorePerfectUS about their staff writer’s viral parody Eli Lilly tweet

“Meta to Lay Off 10,000 Employees, Cut 5,000 More Open Jobs” from Bloomberg

“George Santos Signals Intention to Seek Re-election in 2024” from The New York Times

What have you been wrong about lately? We want to hear your answer to the Make Me Smart question! Leave us a voice message at 508-U-B-SMART, and your submission may be featured in a future episode.