Apple is among the tech giants potentially facing congressional investigations as Democrats prepare to take control of both chambers in January. The Washington Post reports that lawmakers are gearing up to investigate the company over its hosting of tracking apps used by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). While the report refers to Apple's 'hosting' of these apps, the company previously faced scrutiny over its decision to remove them from the App Store.
Last year, Apple removed ICEBlock and similar apps following pressure from the DOJ, citing safety concerns for federal agents. This move came after a gunman attacked an ICE facility in Dallas, killing two detainees. Since then, Democratic lawmakers have questioned the extent of the Trump administration's involvement in the removals and whether they infringed on constitutionally protected speech.
Additionally, Reuters reports that Senator Richard Blumenthal has called on Apple and others who donated to President Trump's new White House ballroom project to turn over records or face possible subpoenas in January. Apple and Nvidia each pledged $25 million toward the ballroom, making them two of the project's largest donors.
Source: 9to5Mac · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing