Trump Leans Toward Temporary Hold on TikTok Ban, Maintaining Cautious Approach
Trump hints at approving TikTok extension, potentially avoiding the app's shutdown. The social media giant, banned in a bipartisan law and upheld by the Supreme Court, seems likely to get a 90-day reprieve. Trump suggested this move in a recent interview, stating, "It's appropriate. We have to look at it carefully. It's a big situation." He further mentioned, "If I decide to do that, I'll probably announce it on Monday."
Without this extension, TikTok threatens to switch off on Sunday. The law in question allows the president to postpone the ban by 90 days, but only if there's substantial progress made in selling the app to a US-owned company[1]. TikTok's CEO, Shou Chew, has held talks with Trump at his Mar-a-Lago residence and is reportedly attending Trump's inauguration on Monday[1].
However, the actual implementation of this extension depends on certain conditions outlined in the law. This includes showing evidence of significant progress towards executing the sale, identifying a viable divestiture path, and ensuring the presence of relevant legal agreements during the extension period[2].
In the meantime, TikTok urgently requires a clear statement from the White House to evade the threat of going dark. Yet, the Biden administration maintains that any actions regarding the ban would fall under the responsibility of the incoming Trump administration[1][3][5]. The White House has viewed TikTok's warning of imminent shutdown as a "stunt," implying no urgency for immediate action from TikTok or other affected companies before Trump assumes office[1][3][5].
[1] - Source: CNET[2] - Source: TechCrunch[5] - Source: Forbes
The extension of TikTok's operations could significantly impact various businesses that use the platform for marketing. If Trump announces the extension as promised, TikTok has a chance to finalize the sale to a US-owned company.