Joe Biden Leaves TikTok US Ban Decision To Donald Trump: Here's What We Know So Far
Trump’s relationship with TikTok has evolved. During his 2024 campaign, he leveraged the platform to connect with younger voters, using viral content to bolster his appeal.
US President Joe Biden will reportedly not enforce a looming ban on TikTok, leaving its future to President-elect Donald Trump as he prepares to take office. The app's fate remains uncertain as a federal law requiring TikTok's Chinese parent company, ByteDance, to divest the app by January 19 awaits action.
As reported by the Associated Press, a US official, speaking anonymously, confirmed that the Biden administration is deferring decisions on enforcing the ban, set to take effect just a day before Trump’s inauguration. Meanwhile, Trump, who initially sought to block TikTok over national security concerns, has reversed his stance, now pledging to keep the app available in the US.
TikTok Ban: National Security Debate
TikTok has become a flashpoint in debates over national security. Critics, including Republican Senator Tom Cotton, argue the app collects sensitive data and promotes harmful content under the influence of the Chinese government. Cotton recently blocked a Democratic-led effort to extend the deadline for TikTok to find an American buyer.
However, supporters of the extension, like Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, say more time is needed to avoid disruption to millions of American users and influencers who rely on the platform for their livelihoods.
Last week, the Supreme Court heard arguments on a legal challenge brought by ByteDance and TikTok users. The case centres on whether the law requiring ByteDance to sell the app or face a ban is justified on national security grounds.
TikTok Ban: Incoming Administration Signals Intentions
Trump’s incoming administration has hinted at creating room for a deal that could save TikTok from a shutdown. Mike Waltz, the next national security adviser, stated that the law provides flexibility for extensions if a viable agreement is within reach.
TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew is expected to attend Trump’s inauguration alongside tech industry leaders like Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg, Sam Altman, and Jeff Bezos. Waltz suggested the administration might seek a solution that balances user access with data security concerns.
TikTok’s Role In Trump’s Campaign
Trump’s relationship with TikTok has evolved. During his 2024 campaign, he leveraged the platform to connect with younger voters, using viral content to bolster his appeal among demographics traditionally harder for Republicans to reach. The app has been credited with helping Trump secure support from younger male voters.
As the clock ticks toward the January 19 deadline, the debate over TikTok encapsulates broader concerns about tech regulation, data privacy, and US-China relations, leaving its future hanging in the balance.
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