
TikTok Restores Service in the U.S. Amid Trump’s Executive Order
This decision comes just hours after TikTok went offline for millions of Americans when a bipartisan law banning the app came into effect.
In a statement, TikTok thanked Trump for his “clarity and assurance” to service providers, enabling the app’s swift return. “We are working with President Trump on a long-term solution to keep TikTok in the United States,” the company added.
Trump’s Statement: Saving TikTok
Trump took to Truth Social to announce his intention to delay the ban through an executive order, emphasizing his commitment to “protecting national security” while keeping TikTok accessible. He assured service providers that they would face no penalties for maintaining the app for over 170 million American users.
“Americans deserve to see our exciting Inauguration on Monday, as well as other events and conversations,” Trump said.
What Prompted the Ban?
The bipartisan law, signed last year, required ByteDance, TikTok’s Chinese parent company, to sell its U.S. operations or face a ban. Lawmakers cited concerns about data privacy and national security, given the app’s ties to a foreign entity. The law allowed the president to grant a one-time extension of up to 90 days if significant progress toward divestiture was made.
The Supreme Court unanimously upheld the law last week, leaving the interpretation of “qualified divestiture” to the president. Trump’s proposal for a 50% joint venture between ByteDance and a U.S.-based entity could potentially meet this requirement.
Key Stakeholders React
House Speaker Mike Johnson expressed skepticism about TikTok’s immediate return, stating, “We will enforce the law.” However, Trump’s incoming national security adviser, Rep. Mike Waltz, indicated that the focus was on creating a temporary solution to prevent the app from going permanently dark.
“This is about giving tech companies and service providers the confidence to keep TikTok online while we work on a deal that protects Americans’ data,” Waltz explained.
Why This Matters
TikTok’s sudden ban disrupted millions of users, including over 7 million small businesses that rely on the platform for marketing and sales. The app’s return not only relieves these users but also avoids escalating tensions between the U.S. and ByteDance.
The app’s absence highlighted its cultural and economic impact, with creators and businesses voicing concerns about losing a key platform. Trump’s executive order aims to address these concerns while ensuring national security measures are upheld.
What’s Next for TikTok?
As TikTok restores service, discussions surrounding its long-term future in the U.S. are ongoing. A potential joint venture or divestiture could resolve legal concerns, but ByteDance has not confirmed any plans to sell the platform. Analysts suggest that a 50% ownership deal could be a compromise acceptable to both parties.
Trump’s executive order, expected Monday, will extend the deadline for enforcement, giving stakeholders more time to negotiate. However, the clock is ticking, and the final resolution will likely set a precedent for future U.S.-China tech disputes.
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