Trump Considers 90-Day Extension for TikTok to Avoid Ban
President-elect Donald Trump is contemplating granting TikTok a 90-day extension to circumvent a potential ban in the United States. In a phone interview with NBC News’ Kristen Welker, Trump mentioned that he is leaning towards providing this reprieve after taking office on Monday. The deadline for TikTok’s China-based parent company to sell to a non-Chinese buyer or face a U.S. ban is currently set for Sunday. Trump emphasized the importance of carefully considering this decision, given the magnitude of the situation.
The Countdown: TikTok on the Brink
With TikTok’s future hanging in the balance, the Biden administration has expressed its reluctance to enforce the law, leaving the responsibility to Trump. Despite the White House’s reassurances, TikTok remains apprehensive about the potential legal repercussions, particularly concerning third-party service providers. The looming deadline has put millions of U.S. users on edge, eagerly awaiting a resolution to the uncertainty surrounding the popular app.
Legal Maneuvers and Uncertain Outcomes
President Joe Biden signed a law requiring TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, to divest the app to a non-Chinese entity or face a nationwide ban. Trump’s potential extension hinges on certifying to Congress that divestiture plans are in motion, with significant progress and relevant legal agreements in place. However, no public disclosure of these binding legal agreements has been made, posing a challenge to TikTok’s future in the U.S. market.
The Unpredictable Path Forward
As TikTok’s fate remains in limbo, the app’s fans, lawmakers, and tech executives eagerly await Trump’s final decision. Trump’s unexpected support for TikTok marks a stark departure from his earlier attempts to ban the app, signaling a potential shift in his stance. The upcoming days will determine whether TikTok can continue to operate in the United States or face an uncertain future under new ownership.
As the clock ticks down to the deadline, the stakes are high for TikTok and its dedicated user base. Will Trump grant the much-anticipated extension, or will TikTok be forced to go dark on Sunday? Only time will tell as the drama surrounding TikTok’s future unfolds in the days ahead.
