TikTok Ban Decision Passed to Trump Ahead of Inauguration
TikTok ban decision deferred to Trump, app’s future hinges on national security and divestment talks
Trump inherits TikTok ban decision, pledges data protection while exploring ways to keep platform active
President Joe Biden has decided not to enforce a TikTok ban before leaving office, passing the responsibility to President-elect Donald Trump just days ahead of his inauguration. This move follows Congress’s mandate requiring TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, to divest the app by January 19 due to national security concerns.
An anonymous U.S. official confirmed that Biden is leaving the enforcement of this law to the incoming Trump administration. While Trump previously advocated for banning TikTok, he later reversed his stance during his presidential campaign, pledging to keep the app available in the U.S.
TikTok CEO at Inauguration
TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew is expected to attend Trump’s inauguration, with reports suggesting he will be seated prominently. Incoming National Security Adviser Mike Waltz indicated that the new administration may explore ways to keep TikTok operational while ensuring user data protection.
“The law allows for an extension if a viable deal is on the table,” Waltz said in an interview. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer has also advocated for extending the deadline to avoid disruption for TikTok users and influencers.
Partisan Debate on TikTok
Efforts to extend the deadline have met resistance. Republican Senator Tom Cotton blocked a proposal to delay the ban, citing national security concerns. “TikTok is a Chinese Communist spy app that harvests data and spreads harmful content,” Cotton stated.
Tech Leaders Attending Inauguration
Alongside TikTok’s CEO, several tech leaders, including Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg, and Jeff Bezos, are expected to attend Trump’s inauguration. Their presence highlights the administration’s focus on tech policies.
Legal and National Security Implications
The Supreme Court recently heard arguments about TikTok’s legal challenge to the law, with the Justices appearing likely to uphold the requirement for ByteDance to divest TikTok. Waltz assured that Trump will prioritize protecting user data while exploring solutions to keep TikTok active.
Trump, who credited TikTok for connecting with younger voters during his campaign, reiterated his commitment to saving the platform while addressing security concerns. The decision on TikTok’s future now rests with his administration.
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