TikTok, a well-known social media platform, has rejected accusations from tech analysts claiming that its algorithm is fraudulent. Reports suggested that TikTok has been boosting content favorable to socialist New York mayoral candidate Zoran Mamdani while downplaying clips supporting his competitor, former Governor Andrew Cuomo, who is running as an independent.
Mamdani’s unexpected victory in the Democratic primary came as a surprise to many, as he defeated Cuomo in a closely watched contest.
Cuomo criticized Mamdani in two debates, questioning his experience and labeling him extreme. However, surveys indicate that Mamdani appears to have significant support from voters in New York City.
Doderes, a software engineer based in Tel Aviv, mentioned that both candidates have relied on excessive and sometimes unnatural publicity in their campaigns.
In a report published on Medium, Doderes asserted that TikTok was directing users towards Mamdani. He stated, “The platform’s algorithm is altering the playing field of the New York City mayoral race.” According to his initial evaluation, videos in support of Cuomo were being suppressed while those favoring Mamdani were amplified, potentially shaping public perception and influencing voter behavior.
This analysis used a computer model to compare the performance of various types of content in relation to user engagement. Doderes indicated that both Mamdani and Cuomo have experienced significant publicity that is not entirely organic.
His findings suggest that anti-Cuomo content saw a 54% overpromotion rate, while content supporting Mamdani received only 3% more promotion. It’s notable that pro-Cuomo content was rated with the same level of hype as anti-Mamdani content: -22%.
Doderes further clarified that this analysis took into account the pre-existing popularity of the topics among TikTok users.
In response, TikTok firmly denied these allegations, calling them a “deliberate attempt to further political agendas through misleading research.” The platform claimed that the report fell short of fundamental journalism standards.
In the final mayoral debate, Cuomo notably criticized Mamdani, saying, “You haven’t accomplished anything!”
TikTok has faced criticism before for allegedly manipulating its algorithm in a way that negatively impacts American society, contrasting with its approach in China.
Investigative journalist Steve Baker referenced recent findings that discussed the involvement of SIM farms allegedly used by China to create societal instability in the U.S., supporting claims against TikTok. He remarked, “According to our sources, the Chinese have control over TikTok through native bots that are undetectable. It’s likely they are influencing votes in favor of Mamdani. I can’t think of a candidate more harmful to the U.S. than Mamdani.”
The platform has also been accused of promoting anti-Israel narratives while suppressing supportive content amidst the ongoing conflict with Hamas.
