Trump’s Response to the TikTok Ban: Will It Save the App?

by Ani Karibyan

On January 19, 2025, TikTok, one of the most popular apps in the world, went dark for U.S. users following the enforcement of a federal law.

Due to national security concerns, the mandate required TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, to divest its U.S. operations. Just a day before his inauguration, President-elect Donald Trump announced a bold plan to delay the ban and keep the app alive. 

But will it work, and what does it mean for TikTok and its millions of users?

What Happened?

The TikTok ban stems from longstanding national security concerns over data privacy and potential Chinese government influence through ByteDance. The U.S. government has argued that the app’s data collection practices could jeopardize user privacy and national security.

Despite the Biden administration’s assurance that the ban would not be enforced before Trump’s inauguration, TikTok was removed from Apple and Google Play stores, leaving it inaccessible to U.S. users. This move has caused widespread disruption for creators, businesses, and users who relied on the app for entertainment and income.

 

 

Trump’s Proposal

In response to the ban, Trump announced plans to issue an executive order on January 20, 2025, delaying the enforcement of the TikTok ban by 90 days. His plan aims to give ByteDance additional time to resolve the situation and negotiate a sale of its U.S. operations to a non-Chinese entity.

Key Elements of Trump’s Plan:

  • 90-Day Extension: This delay would allow TikTok to resume operations temporarily while negotiations continue.

  • 50% U.S. Ownership Proposal: Trump suggested that the U.S. government and private investors acquire a 50% stake in TikTok to address security concerns while keeping the app operational for American users. This idea has been shared through official statements and news reports, though not via social media.

  • International Negotiations: The plan requires approval from both U.S. and Chinese governments, adding layers of complexity to the resolution process.

Challenges Ahead

While Trump’s proposal provides a glimmer of hope for TikTok’s future in the U.S., it faces significant hurdles:

1. Geopolitical Tensions

The proposal’s success hinges on cooperation between the U.S. and Chinese governments. With ongoing tensions, securing Beijing’s approval could prove challenging.

2. Regulatory Scrutiny

Even with Trump’s intervention, U.S. regulators are likely to demand robust safeguards to ensure user data remains secure.

3. Competition and Trust

The ban has already driven users and creators to explore alternatives like Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts. Rebuilding trust and regaining market share will be a significant challenge for TikTok, even if the ban is lifted.

What’s at Stake?

TikTok’s absence in the U.S. has far-reaching implications:

  • For Creators and Businesses: Many creators rely on TikTok for their livelihoods, and small businesses have leveraged the platform for marketing and sales.

  • For Users: The ban disrupts a favorite platform for entertainment and self-expression, leaving a void in the digital landscape.

  • For Tech Governance: This situation sets a precedent for governments addressing data privacy issues and issues with foreign tech companies.

Trump’s plan to save TikTok is a bold move that underscores the app’s cultural and economic significance. While the proposal offers a potential path forward, it faces significant challenges that will require careful negotiation and compromise.

For now, TikTok’s future in the U.S. remains uncertain, leaving users and creators hoping for a resolution.

What do you think about Trump’s plan to delay the TikTok ban? Will it succeed, or is the app’s future in jeopardy? Please share your thoughts in the comments and stay updated on the latest developments by following our blog.

Leave a comment

Back to News