Trump Signs Executive Order to Restore TikTok, Delays Enforcement for 75 Days

President Donald Trump has signed an executive order aimed at restoring TikTok's service in the United States. The order mandates relevant government agencies to pursue a resolution that safeguards national security while ensuring the app's survival. This decisive action follows a U.S. Supreme Court ruling that upheld the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act (PAFACA), which had effectively banned TikTok on January 19.

The executive order specifies a 75-day period during which the U.S. Attorney General and the Department of Justice are instructed not to enforce PAFACA. This move provides a temporary reprieve for TikTok, allowing time for a potential resolution that balances national security concerns with the app's continued operation in the U.S.

"During this period, the Department of Justice shall take no action to enforce the Act or impose any penalties against any entity for any noncompliance with the Act," – Donald Trump

PAFACA, which received bipartisan support during former President Joe Biden's administration, was designed to protect against applications controlled by foreign adversaries. The Supreme Court's decision to uphold the Act underscored its importance in safeguarding national interests. However, Trump's executive order indicates a shift towards finding a compromise that could allow TikTok to operate without compromising security.

The 75-day enforcement delay provides a window for negotiations and reassessments of how TikTok can function within U.S. borders while addressing security risks. Trump's administration has highlighted the significance of protecting national security while acknowledging TikTok's popularity and economic impact.

The executive order challenges the status quo established by PAFACA, signaling a willingness to explore solutions that could involve stringent security measures or modifications to TikTok's operations and ownership structures. Government agencies are now tasked with navigating these complex discussions to achieve a balanced outcome.