As the Biden administration opts to defer enforcing a potential TikTok ban, the fate of the popular social media app now rests in the hands of incoming President Donald Trump.
At a Glance
- President Biden will not enforce a TikTok ban set to take effect on Sunday
- The Supreme Court is likely to uphold a law that could effectively ban TikTok in the U.S.
- ByteDance, TikTok’s China-based owner, is required to divest from the company
- The case raises significant concerns about data privacy, security, and free speech
- Trump’s administration will be responsible for deciding TikTok’s future in the U.S.
Biden’s Decision to Defer TikTok Ban Enforcement
In a surprising turn of events, President Joe Biden has chosen not to enforce a TikTok ban that was scheduled to take effect on Sunday. And he…absolutely could have done.
This decision effectively passes the responsibility of determining the app’s fate to the incoming Trump administration. Biden had previously signed legislation requiring ByteDance, TikTok’s Chinese parent company, to sell the app by January 19.
An unnamed U.S. official revealed that Biden will not enforce the statute, which becomes binding just before he leaves office. This move comes amid ongoing debates about national security concerns and the protection of user data.
The Supreme Court is currently hearing arguments on the law requiring TikTok’s sale, which could significantly influence Trump’s future actions regarding the app. Justices have expressed concerns about free speech but seem inclined to defer to national security justifications.
Justice Brett Kavanaugh noted that the government’s arguments about data collection concerns were “very strong.” The government is defending the law on national security grounds, citing potential Chinese influence over the platform.
Florida Republican Rep. Mike Waltz, nominated by Trump as National Security Advisor, has hinted at plans to ensure TikTok access while protecting user data. This approach suggests a possible shift from the hardline stance taken during Trump’s previous term.
“TikTok itself is a fantastic platform, I wish I could have it on my phone. The algorithm is amazing. We’re going to find a way to preserve it but protect people’s data. And that’s the deal that will be in front of us,” Mike Waltz said.
Trump’s previous actions on TikTok included an executive order in 2020 banning transactions with ByteDance, citing concerns over data collection potentially allowing Chinese access to Americans’ information. However, his recent statements suggest a more nuanced approach, with the former president expressing a desire to “pursue a political resolution” to the TikTok issue.
The uncertainty surrounding TikTok’s future in the United States has left its 170 million American users, particularly content creators, in a state of limbo. TikTok and some users argue that the law violates First Amendment free speech rights, highlighting the complex balance between national security concerns and individual freedoms.