President Joe Biden has avoided taking any steps to implement the TikTok ban, which will take effect on the last day of his term, leaving the decision in the hands of President-elect Donald Trump.
Background of Ban:
ByteDance, the China-based parent company of TikTok, was ordered to transfer the company to its American owners by January 19, under a law passed by Congress last year and signed by Biden. This order was to be implemented before the swearing in of the President. A Biden administration official explained that the decision to implement the ban is now up to the Trump administration.
Trump’s changing role:
Trump, who previously called for a ban on TikTok, recently announced that the app would continue in the US. However, their transition team has not given any information on how this will be achieved. Interestingly, TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew will attend Trump’s swearing-in ceremony and will get a prime seat.
Strategy of the new administration:
Mike Waltz, the new national security adviser, explained that the law provides for an extension if suitable alternatives are available before the ban goes into effect. “If the Supreme Court rules in favor of the law, the Trump administration will take measures to protect data and complete transactions,” Waltz said.
Division between political parties:
The differences between the two parties over the future of TikTok are clear. Democratic leader Chuck Schumer has called for an extension of the ban’s deadline, while Republican Sen. Tom Cotton dismissed the claim, calling TikTok a ‘Chinese Communist Party spy app’.
Hearing in Supreme Court:
ByteDance and TikTok have been challenged in the Supreme Court, but the justices’ responses are likely to support the law. This decision is going to be decisive for TikTok users in the US.
Trump’s campaign and relationship with youth:
Trump, who tried to ban TikTok, used the app effectively in the 2024 presidential election. He ran a campaign on TikTok to reach out to the youth, which earned him massive support from the youth.
Results and Expectations:
Considering the whole situation, the decision of TikTok’s fate rests with the Trump administration. The decision will be significant for millions of American users and many influencers who rely on TikTok.
The entire world is focused on whether the ban on TikTok will be enforced, or whether the new administration will take steps towards preserving the app.