In a decision that raises eyebrows, President Trump will soon provide another extension on TikTok's controversial status in the United States, ensuring the app remains available for at least another three months. The news comes amidst ongoing security concerns regarding the platform's Chinese ownership.
Trump Delays TikTok Ban Again, Extending Deadline for US Users
Trump Delays TikTok Ban Again, Extending Deadline for US Users
President Trump is expected to sign an executive order extending the deadline for TikTok's sale or ban, allowing the app to continue operating in the US.
Despite the restrictions laid out by Congress last year, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced on Tuesday that Trump will officially sign an order to prolong TikTok's existence. The initial deadline was set for January and was contingent upon its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, selling the application to an American buyer. Leavitt emphasized that the 90-day extension is designed to allow time for negotiations while reassuring American users that their data remains secure.
In a statement, Trump hinted at potential negotiations involving China, stating, “I think we'll get it. I think President Xi will ultimately approve it." When quizzed about the legality of his decision, he asserted, "We do," implying confidence in his executive authority. This extension contradicts an earlier congressional decision aimed at regulating foreign influence and protecting American data privacy, which both the Supreme Court and prior President Joe Biden supported.
Despite the looming potential of a ban, analysts suggest that TikTok's future seems secure, with many dismissing the seriousness of a potential shutdown. TikTok has been increasingly engaging users with new features, including AI-driven video tools. In sharp contrast, smaller competitors like Snap are expected to struggle in gaining market share during this uncertain period.
Previous attempts by the Trump administration to force a sale of TikTok to an American company have yet to materialize. Speculation continues about potential buyers, with Oracle among the names mentioned, as well as other investors like Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian and YouTuber MrBeast. As negotiations progress, the question remains whether TikTok's fate will hinge on corporate agreements or ongoing diplomatic discussions between the US and China.
In a statement, Trump hinted at potential negotiations involving China, stating, “I think we'll get it. I think President Xi will ultimately approve it." When quizzed about the legality of his decision, he asserted, "We do," implying confidence in his executive authority. This extension contradicts an earlier congressional decision aimed at regulating foreign influence and protecting American data privacy, which both the Supreme Court and prior President Joe Biden supported.
Despite the looming potential of a ban, analysts suggest that TikTok's future seems secure, with many dismissing the seriousness of a potential shutdown. TikTok has been increasingly engaging users with new features, including AI-driven video tools. In sharp contrast, smaller competitors like Snap are expected to struggle in gaining market share during this uncertain period.
Previous attempts by the Trump administration to force a sale of TikTok to an American company have yet to materialize. Speculation continues about potential buyers, with Oracle among the names mentioned, as well as other investors like Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian and YouTuber MrBeast. As negotiations progress, the question remains whether TikTok's fate will hinge on corporate agreements or ongoing diplomatic discussions between the US and China.
