Trump’s Support May Keep TikTok Alive in the U.S.
In a turn of events, former President Donald Trump, once known for his attempts to ban TikTok, might now be the platform’s strongest ally. Recently re-elected and preparing for his return to the White House, Trump has promised to oppose a ban on the popular social media platform. TikTok faces potential closure due to an ongoing court battle over national security concerns, and Trump’s return to power could significantly impact the outcome of this legal conflict.
TikTok’s Legal Struggles and the National Security Debate
Since early 2023, TikTok and its parent company, ByteDance, have been entangled in legal disputes with the U.S. government. These issues arise from a law requiring ByteDance to divest its ownership to continue operating in the American market. The measure, signed by President Joe Biden, mandates ByteDance to sell its stakes by January, though an extension could push this deadline into Trump’s first 100 days in office.
ByteDance argues that a forced sale is impractical, while Trump’s recent statements suggest he may intervene to prevent TikTok’s shutdown. His spokesperson, Karoline Leavitt, emphasized Trump’s commitment to “save TikTok,” indicating that he views his new term as a mandate to fulfill these promises.
Trump’s Concerns Over a Ban’s Impact on Facebook
Though Trump considers TikTok a potential security threat, he has argued that banning it would unfairly benefit its competitor, Facebook. His connection with ByteDance investor and Republican donor Jeff Yass has raised questions, as Yass has been a vocal Trump supporter and a significant campaign contributor. However, Trump denies that his association with Yass has influenced his stance. ByteDance has stepped up lobbying efforts in Washington, employing former Trump aides to advocate for TikTok’s survival.
Possible Legal Actions and ByteDance’s Resistance
If the courts uphold the divestment requirement, Trump’s Justice Department would be responsible for enforcing penalties on app stores and hosting services that support TikTok. Trump may attempt to repeal or amend the law through an executive order, though legal scholars, including Harvard’s Leah Plunkett, question the legality of this approach. Alternatively, he could seek support from Congressional Republicans, many of whom favor the law, to bolster his efforts to preserve TikTok.
ByteDance remains resistant to selling TikTok, particularly its unique algorithm, which analysts believe is unlikely to be included in any sale. Continued refusal to divest could expose ByteDance to significant penalties and potentially block TikTok from the U.S. market. This uncertainty leaves TikTok’s future in flux, possibly transforming it into a markedly different platform.
Potential for Renegotiations
Sarah Kreps, director of Cornell’s Tech Policy Institute, suggests Trump might consider reopening negotiations with ByteDance, building on talks initiated by the Biden administration. However, experts caution that Trump’s strategy could shift once he has access to updated national security intelligence, adding an element of unpredictability to TikTok’s future.
Uncertain Future for TikTok
With January approaching, TikTok’s fate in the U.S. remains uncertain. Trump’s potential role as the app’s unlikely protector is as surprising as the platform’s vast popularity among Americans, reflecting the complex intersections of technology, national security, and political influence.