Senators Push for Congressional Oversight on TikTok Sale Deadline
The future of TikTok’s U.S. operations remains uncertain as three Democratic senators – Ed Markey, Chris Van Hollen, and Cory Booker – urge President Donald Trump to let Congress determine whether to extend the TikTok sale deadline. They argue that Trump’s unilateral extension to April 5 was unlawful and are advocating for a congressional extension until October to allow more time for a structured deal.
The Push for a Legislative Solution
Last year, Congress passed a law requiring ByteDance to sell a majority stake in TikTok to U.S. owners or face a ban. While Trump has delayed enforcing this law, senators argue that the path to saving TikTok should go through Capitol Hill rather than relying on executive decisions.
“This non-enforcement of the TikTok ban was not only unlawful but also raised serious questions about TikTok’s future,” the senators wrote in a letter to Trump.
ByteDance’s U.S. Sale Talks Continue
According to sources, White House-led discussions are focusing on a plan that would allow non-Chinese investors in ByteDance to increase their stakes and acquire TikTok’s U.S. operations. The plan would spin off TikTok as a separate U.S. entity while diluting Chinese ownership to prevent a full-scale ban.
ByteDance and TikTok have not publicly commented on the ongoing negotiations.
Concerns Over National Security and Data Privacy
The law requiring ByteDance to sell TikTok stems from concerns that the Chinese government could use the app for influence operations or data collection against the U.S. This has led to discussions about potential partnerships with U.S. tech firms.
Reuters previously reported that the Trump administration had explored a deal involving Oracle, where the software giant and some existing ByteDance investors would take control of TikTok’s U.S. operations while ensuring user data security.
The senators now want Trump to clarify whether he plans to extend the deadline and, if so, on what legal grounds. They also demand confirmation of reports that Oracle could take a stake in TikTok and oversee data security measures.
Trump’s Response and the Future of TikTok
Trump recently stated that his administration is in discussions with multiple groups regarding a TikTok deal, but he has not disclosed details. The uncertainty leaves 170 million U.S. TikTok users wondering what comes next.
With pressure mounting from lawmakers and business leaders, the battle over TikTok’s future will likely continue in the coming months.
Should Trump extend the TikTok sale deadline, or should Congress take the lead? Share your thoughts in the comments!
