By John D. McKinnon

Republicans took their turn criticizing the tech platforms in opening statements. That's also worrisome for the companies--any significant GOP support for an eventual bill in the Democratic-controlled House could improve its chances of passage in the closely-divided Senate.

Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R., Wash.), the top-ranking Republican on the Energy and Commerce Committee, said to the executives, "You have broken my trust....Your platforms are my biggest fear as a parent."

How rank-and-file Republicans handle this hearing could be important to the companies. If more GOP members signal interest in working with Democrats on legislation, that could spell trouble for Big Tech.

This item is part of a Wall Street Journal live coverage event. The full stream can be found by searching P/WSJL (WSJ Live Coverage).

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

03-25-21 1314ET