TikTok users in the United States experienced a blackout on Saturday night as the app went offline. However, it might not be the end for the popular platform. Former President Donald Trump, set to begin his second term on Monday, has shared plans to extend the timeline for a potential ban and negotiate a deal to address national security concerns.
Trump promises to delay TikTok ban
In a post shared on Truth Social on Sunday morning, Trump revealed his intention to issue an executive order on Monday. The order would delay the ban’s enforcement, allowing a deal to be finalised. Trump’s announcement came after the app went dark due to a lack of assurances from the White House, leaving users unable to access its features.
Trump explained his reasoning in the post, saying the extension would provide time to secure a solution that protects US interests. He stated, “We can make a deal to protect our national security,” offering TikTok a chance to remain operational in the United States.
A joint venture proposal
The former president also shared his idea for resolving the situation. His proposal involves a joint venture between ByteDance, TikTok’s current parent company, and new stakeholders. Trump suggested that US investors hold a 50% ownership stake in the venture, ensuring American control over the app’s operations.
This development follows a bipartisan push in Congress last April to either force TikTok’s sale or impose a complete ban. President Joe Biden swiftly signed the law. Despite supporting a sale during his first term, Trump has opposed the outright ban, calling for a solution that keeps TikTok accessible while addressing security concerns.
The Supreme Court upheld the legislation last Friday, and the ban was set to take effect on Sunday. With the inauguration looming, White House and Department of Justice officials indicated they would defer the ban’s implementation to the incoming administration.
TikTok seeks assurances as users await clarity
Before going offline, TikTok called for clarity on whether “critical service providers” hosting or listing the app would face penalties. Without such guarantees, the app shuts down operations. A TikTok spokesperson criticised the lack of definitive guidance, calling it a significant barrier.
In response, Trump urged companies to help restore the app’s services before his executive order was issued. “I’m asking companies not to let TikTok stay dark,” he wrote, reassuring that his order would remove liability for any firms involved in maintaining the app’s availability.
TikTok echoed Trump’s remarks, promising users that they were working towards a solution to bring the app back online. “We are fortunate that President Trump has indicated that he will work with us on a solution to reinstate TikTok once he takes office,” the platform stated in a message to users.
Trump’s post emphasised the importance of TikTok’s return, particularly for sharing events like Monday’s inauguration. “Americans deserve to see our exciting Inauguration on Monday, as well as other events and conversations,” he wrote.
The fate of TikTok now hinges on Trump’s proposed deal and the cooperation of key stakeholders. With millions of users awaiting updates, the next steps could shape the app’s future in the United States.
