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Trump Delays TikTok Ban for 75 Days After CEO’s Attendance at Inauguration

Trump Delays TikTok Ban for 75 Days After CEO’s Attendance at Inauguration

In a significant move, President Donald Trump has ordered a temporary halt on the nationwide TikTok ban for 75 days, providing the Chinese-owned app more time to address concerns regarding its ownership and operations in the United States. This decision follows a tumultuous period in which TikTok took itself offline for over 12 hours on January 19, 2025, amid the impending ban. TikTok’s status in the U.S. has been a source of tension for months, with national security concerns surrounding its Chinese ownership by ByteDance.

Background: The TikTok Ban Crisis

The law mandating the TikTok ban unless ByteDance sells the app to an American company was set to take effect on January 19, 2025. This would have prohibited internet service providers and app stores from offering the platform to U.S. users. The law gained bipartisan support but sparked controversy due to the potential economic implications, as millions of Americans rely on the app for entertainment, marketing, and communication.

However, TikTok took swift action over the weekend, shutting down its services for U.S. users, presenting a message that warned of the imminent ban. Despite the shutdown, TikTok reassured users by announcing that Trump had pledged to work on a resolution once he took office, suggesting the potential for an extension or negotiation on its fate.

Trump’s Executive Order Delays Ban

On January 20, 2025, President Trump signed an executive order delaying the TikTok ban for 75 days. This delay is meant to give the administration time to determine the next steps in resolving the issues surrounding TikTok’s ownership. During this time, ByteDance is expected to finalize a deal that may involve a shift in ownership to a joint venture model, with the U.S. government or U.S.-based investors holding a significant stake.

Trump has previously proposed that the U.S. should own at least 50% of TikTok, which he believes could both ensure national security and provide a lucrative business opportunity. He has made it clear that he views the potential restructuring of TikTok as a way to protect U.S. interests while maintaining the app’s popularity.

CEO Chew’s Presence at Trump’s Inauguration

In a surprising twist, TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew was seen attending Trump’s inauguration alongside notable figures such as Apple CEO Tim Cook and media personality Joe Rogan. Chew’s attendance signals a willingness to engage directly with the new administration in an effort to resolve the standoff over TikTok’s U.S. operations.

Chew’s presence at such a high-profile event also raises questions about the future of TikTok under U.S. ownership or influence, especially considering the app’s global reach and its critical role in American culture and politics. The involvement of top executives in direct negotiations with government leaders is viewed as a strategic move to strengthen ties and navigate the regulatory hurdles facing the platform.

Potential Deal Offers and Market Reactions

As part of the ongoing negotiations, TikTok has received offers from American investors keen to acquire a stake in the platform. Among the most notable is a proposal from Jimmy Donaldson, better known as Mr. Beast, who is part of an investor group led by entrepreneur Jesse Tinsley. This all-cash offer is expected to be submitted soon and could potentially change the trajectory of TikTok’s future in the U.S.

This surge in interest from U.S. investors comes as TikTok seeks to avoid being shut down, and the platform’s strategic importance has only increased. The app’s vast user base and content algorithm make it a valuable asset for any potential buyer. Analysts have estimated that ByteDance could sell TikTok’s U.S. operations for as much as $40 billion to $50 billion, further emphasizing the magnitude of the deal.

Trump’s Strong Stance on National Security and Data Privacy

While the future of TikTok in the U.S. remains uncertain, Trump has been clear about his national security concerns. He has repeatedly emphasized the importance of protecting American data from foreign interference, particularly from Chinese entities. As part of his executive order, Trump has threatened to impose hefty tariffs on any party that blocks a deal or prevents TikTok from continuing to operate in the U.S., underscoring the economic and political stakes involved.

Also Read: Enzo Maresca: “The Second Goal Made All the Difference”

This strong stance on data privacy and national security is central to the ongoing debate over TikTok’s operations. While some lawmakers have voiced support for a continued ban, others argue for a compromise that would allow TikTok to remain in the U.S. while addressing security concerns.

What’s Next for TikTok?

As the 75-day delay provides both sides with more time to negotiate, the future of TikTok in the U.S. remains in flux. While ByteDance works to secure a deal that satisfies both the U.S. government and potential investors, the clock is ticking. Should a resolution not be reached, the U.S. could proceed with the ban, leaving millions of American TikTok users facing a major shift in their social media experience.

For now, the spotlight remains on the negotiations and the role of the U.S. government in shaping the future of one of the world’s most popular social media platforms. With both sides maneuvering for leverage, the outcome will likely have far-reaching implications not only for TikTok but also for global tech and digital privacy policies moving forward.

Conclusion

The delay of the TikTok ban for 75 days offers a temporary reprieve for the popular app, as ByteDance explores options for U.S. ownership and a resolution to national security concerns. With high-profile figures like Shou Zi Chew attending Trump’s inauguration and American investors vying for a piece of the app, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining TikTok’s future in the United States.

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