TikTok Avoids US Ban: Trump Extends Deadline Again
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TikTok users in the United States can breathe a sigh of relief, at least for now. Former President Donald Trump is expected to sign an executive order this week extending the deadline for ByteDance, TikTok's Chinese owner, to either sell the app or face a ban. This marks the third time Trump has pushed back the deadline.
Why the Extension?
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that the 90-day extension is intended to “ensure this deal is closed so that the American people can continue to use TikTok with the assurance that their data is safe and secure.” The previous deadline was set after ByteDance reportedly refused to sell TikTok to a US buyer by a January deadline.
Trump himself hinted at the extension, telling the BBC that he would “probably” extend the TikTok deadline. He also expressed optimism about securing approval from China, stating, “I think President Xi will ultimately approve it.”
Background: Data Security Concerns
The potential ban stems from concerns that TikTok, which boasts 170 million American users, could be used by the Chinese government for spying and political manipulation. These fears led Congress to pass a law mandating either the sale or ban of the platform. Former President Joe Biden signed the bill into law immediately. The Supreme Court upheld the law, further solidifying the legal basis for the ban.
Interestingly, TikTok briefly went offline shortly before Trump's inauguration, only to be restored later. Trump was praised for saving the platform at that time.
Future Uncertain
While this extension provides temporary reprieve for TikTok users, the long-term future of the app in the United States remains uncertain. The Biden administration has also voiced similar concerns about data security, and they might reevaluate the situation once in office.