Yes, at least outside of the EU. However, companies don't seem to be developing for it yet, probably due to the investment not being worth it until similar laws are more widespread. However, Orion in also on macOS, which does allow other engines. And Kagi is developing Orion for Linux and Windows.
I agree with the point this article is trying to make. As political definitions change, we start to lose sight of what these terms actually mean. I believe a more helpful comparison than left vs right, is open vs closed.