COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – The nation is bracing for a TikTok ban after the Supreme Court declined to hear an appeal from the app’s owners. They argued that banning TikTok would violate the First Amendment, but the court ruled against them. The ban could take effect as soon as Sunday. The only way to save the app now would be for it to be sold to a buyer in the U.S.
This decision has sparked debate, particularly among creators and users. Kurt Tocci, a creator originally from Colorado, believes banning the app might be too harsh. He feels that TikTok’s impact on culture and the economy is significant.
Tocci moved to Los Angeles to chase his dreams in TV and film. But along the way, he discovered a passion for social media. “I missed the initial buzz of social media,” he said. “However, in 2019, I started creating content and connecting with others.” His follower count rose dramatically during the COVID-19 pandemic, thanks to a popular video he made about Disney characters in quarantine.
Following that video, Tocci saw his followers quadruple in just a few days. He worked hard to maintain that momentum, creating relatable content that resonated with his audience. “My goal has always been to grow steadily across all platforms,” he noted.
While he found some financial success on TikTok, Tocci pointed out that platforms like YouTube and Instagram have made up a larger part of his income. “Honestly, the numbers on TikTok don’t really matter to me. What counts is the community,” he explained.
Tocci offered insights into how TikTok operates. Most users discover content through the “For You” page, not just from creators they follow. He emphasized that getting noticed can be challenging; a video must be compelling to get significant views.
Despite the challenges, he praised TikTok’s viral potential, calling it a powerful tool for creators. It’s also an important outlet for people during difficult times, which he compared to losing access to movie theaters. “It’s not just about money; it’s about community and culture,” he said, highlighting how the platform allows him to share ties to his home in Colorado.
Moreover, Tocci argued that TikTok provides many creators a source of income, especially during the pandemic. “It’s like taking away Uber or Lyft; people rely on it to make a living,” he said.
He also mentioned TikTok’s potential for spreading important information. During recent wildfires in Los Angeles, people have used the platform to share urgent updates. “People get their news from TikTok,” he pointed out, explaining how quickly information can be shared during emergencies.
Tocci noted that while some view TikTok as a security threat—following President Biden’s characterization of the app—he finds that argument unconvincing. “Our phones are made in China,” he said. “If they wanted our information, they could get it easily.” He believes the cultural and economic benefits of TikTok should not be overlooked, and he hopes the ban will be lifted in the future.
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