Internal documents from TikTok revealed in a recently filed lawsuit showcase the company’s targeted approach to expanding its user base in rural areas and influencing key lawmakers.

Initially redacted but uncovered through a technical oversight, the documents were part of lawsuits filed by 13 states and Washington, D.C., against the social media giant. 

Kentucky Public Radio’s Sylvia Goodman first reported on the contents of these unredacted files.

According to the lawsuit, TikTok’s internal reports break down preferences and demographic data of new users classified as “country rural.” The company’s analysis identified top preferences among new rural users, including baseball, Walmart, boats, and beer.

The documents also reveal TikTok’s strategy to win over influential federal lawmakers. One such document lists TikTok accounts that could potentially persuade specific politicians of the platform’s value. For instance, the strategy for Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky includes highlighting accounts of small businesses in Kentucky.

Beyond rural targeting, the documents shed light on TikTok’s broader user acquisition and retention strategies. One internal study cited by NPR suggests that users can become addicted to the app after viewing as few as 260 videos.

The lawsuit also alleges that TikTok executives knew the app had the potential to replace essential activities. One executive reportedly said TikTok could replace “sleep and eating and moving around the room and looking at someone in the eyes.”

Additionally, the documents discuss TikTok’s approach to beauty filters and content curation. Internal communications suggest that employees proposed labeling filters and promoting positive body image, but these ideas were not implemented. Instead, the company reportedly adjusted its algorithm to amplify content from users deemed beautiful by the platform.

TikTok has objected to reporting these documents. A company spokesperson stated that the attorney general’s complaint cherry-picked misleading quotes and used outdated, out-of-context documents that misrepresent TikTok’s commitment to community safety.

The legal action, launched on October 8, alleges that TikTok violated state laws by falsely claiming its service is safe for young people. Each suit focuses on “addictive” features, including constant notifications and video autoplay, to boost revenue.

While TikTok has faced controversy over national security concerns due to its Chinese ownership and a potential U.S. ban, these lawsuits focus on the platform’s business model.