Apple faces potential congressional Investigations as Democrats prepare to take control of both chambers in January, according to 9to5Mac. Lawmakers are gearing up to probe the tech giant over its hosting of tracking apps used by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, alongside questions regarding a multi-million dollar donation.
Key takeaways
- Apple is among the large companies potentially facing inquiries when Democrats take control of Congress in January.
- Lawmakers plan to investigate the company over tracking apps used by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
- Senator Richard Blumenthal called on Apple to turn over records regarding its donation to a White House project.
- Apple pledged $25 million toward a new White House ballroom project.
What prompted the potential congressional Investigations?
According to 9to5Mac citing The Washington Post and Reuters, Washington law firms are advising companies on how to prepare for upcoming inquiries. Lawmakers are focusing on Apple over its hosting of tracking apps used by federal immigration agents. Last year, the company removed ICEBlock and similar apps from the App Store after pressure from the Department of Justice.
The removal followed an attack on an ICE facility in Dallas where a gunman killed two detainees. Democratic lawmakers previously questioned whether the Trump administration was involved in the decision and if the removals violated free speech, after Apple initially faced criticism for keeping them available.
Senate scrutiny over big tech donations
Senator Richard Blumenthal, who will take over as chair of the Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations, demanded that Apple and other donors hand over records. Blumenthal warned that companies could face possible subpoenas in January if they fail to comply.
The inquiry involves donations to President Trump's new White House ballroom project. Last month, reports revealed that Apple and Nvidia each pledged $25 million toward the initiative, making them two of the largest contributors to the build.
What happens next for Apple?
With Democrats taking control of both congressional chambers in January, executives across big tech are scrambling to prepare for a wave of subpoenas and scrutiny. Apple did not immediately respond to requests for comment from Reuters or The Washington Post regarding the looming probes, leaving the company's next steps uncertain as political pressure mounts.
Frequently asked questions
Apple is facing potential congressional Investigations over its hosting of tracking apps used by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and its donation to a White House ballroom project.
Reuters and The Washington Post originally reported on the brewing investigations, which were detailed by 9to5Mac.
Apple pledged $25 million toward the new White House ballroom project, making the company one of the largest donors alongside Nvidia.
Apple removed ICEBlock and several similar apps from the App Store last year following pressure from the Department of Justice and concerns over federal agent safety.
Senator Richard Blumenthal called on Apple and other donors to turn over records regarding the White House ballroom project or face possible subpoenas in January.
Based on reporting by 9to5Mac. Read the original article
