In a rapidly unfolding series of events, TikTok users in the United States found themselves cut off from the app as it went dark on Saturday night. This disruption follows the enactment of a bipartisan law, swiftly signed by President Joe Biden, which mandates ByteDance to either sell TikTok or face a ban in the U.S. The Supreme Court upheld the law in a ruling on Friday, set to take effect Sunday. However, President-elect Donald Trump has announced plans to issue an executive order on Monday aimed at preventing the app's blackout.
TikTok had urged for a more "definitive statement" ensuring that "critical service providers" would not face penalties for continuing to host or list the app. In response, Trump took to Truth Social on Sunday morning, pledging to "confirm that there will be no liability for any company that helped keep TikTok from going dark before my order." Furthermore, he asked companies "not to let TikTok stay dark," emphasizing the importance of American users accessing events and conversations, including his upcoming inauguration.
"We are fortunate that President Trump has indicated that he will work with us on a solution to reinstate TikTok once he takes office." – TikTok
The White House dismissed TikTok's position as "a stunt," while Trump voiced opposition to the ban, contrasting his previous stance during his first term when he attempted to force ByteDance into selling the app. Trump's proposal for a resolution includes a potential joint venture, allowing the U.S. to gain 50% ownership alongside current and new stakeholders.
"Americans deserve to see our exciting Inauguration on Monday, as well as other events and conversations" – Donald Trump
With Trump's inauguration set for Monday, officials from both the White House and the Department of Justice have hinted at deferring the ban's implementation to the incoming president. Trump's announcement of a probable 90-day extension for ByteDance adds another layer of complexity to the matter. This proposed extension aims to provide breathing space for all parties involved to negotiate a viable solution.
As anticipation builds for Trump's executive order, the landscape surrounding TikTok's fate remains uncertain. The app's future hinges on upcoming legal and administrative maneuvers, which will be closely monitored by stakeholders and users alike.
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