We must not let Big Tech threaten our security, freedoms and democracy | Al Franken

The dominance of these companies requires that the government consider their role in the integrity of our democracy, writes Senator Al Franken

As lawmakers grapple with the revelations regarding Russia's manipulation of social media during the 2016 election, many are shocked to learn the outsized role that the major tech companies play in so many aspects of our lives. Not only do they guide what we see, read, and buy on a regular basis, but their dominance - specifically in the market of information - now requires that we consider their role in the integrity of our democracy.

Last week's hearings demonstrated that these companies may not be up to the challenge that they've created for themselves. In some instances, it seems that they've failed to take commonsense precautions to prevent the spread of propaganda, misinformation, and hate speech.