As President Joe Biden’s term comes to an end, the outgoing administration has decided not to enforce a ban on the social media app TikTok, leaving the future of the app in the hands of President-elect Donald Trump. The law requiring TikTok’s China-based parent company ByteDance to divest the app by January 19, a day before Trump’s inauguration, was passed last year under Biden’s leadership. However, with the deadline fast approaching, the decision regarding the enforcement of the law and any potential ban will now rest with the incoming administration.
TikTok’s Future in Trump’s Hands
A U.S. official disclosed that Biden’s administration would not be enforcing the TikTok ban, allowing Trump to determine how the situation will unfold. The official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, mentioned that the incoming president-elect’s team would decide whether to carry out the law or extend the deadline. Trump, who previously supported a TikTok ban due to national security concerns, has reversed his position, now pledging to keep the app available in the U.S.
Legal Challenges and Delay Requests
In the lead-up to the deadline, there have been numerous requests for an extension. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer has called for more time to allow for a potential deal, particularly highlighting the app’s importance to millions of American influencers and users. Despite efforts by Senate Democrats to pass a bill extending the divestment deadline, Republican Sen. Tom Cotton blocked the move, citing national security concerns and the app’s ties to the Chinese government.
TikTok CEO Expected at Trump’s Inauguration
In an unexpected twist, TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew is expected to attend Trump’s inauguration, with reports suggesting that he will be seated alongside tech industry titans such as Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg, and Jeff Bezos. This unprecedented inclusion of a company leader embroiled in a high-stakes political issue has added intrigue to the inauguration’s guest list.
Supreme Court Decision Looms
Meanwhile, the U.S. Supreme Court recently heard oral arguments in a legal challenge to the law, with TikTok and ByteDance fighting against the potential divestment. The court seemed likely to uphold the law, which was originally designed to address national security concerns related to data privacy and Chinese government influence over the app.
Trump’s Change of Heart on TikTok
Trump’s stance on TikTok has shifted significantly since his initial push to ban the app during his first term. During his 2024 presidential campaign, Trump credited TikTok with helping him connect with younger voters, particularly in appealing to a more male demographic. Now, he is determined to protect the app’s U.S. user base while ensuring data security concerns are addressed.
As the legal and political battle over TikTok continues, the app’s fate in the U.S. will hinge on President Trump’s decisions following his inauguration.
