Trump Extends TikTok Ban Reprieve as Potential Deal Emerges
WASHINGTON – President Trump has once again delayed the enforcement of a ban on the popular video-sharing app TikTok, extending a 90-day reprieve as the management reportedly nears a deal with China regarding the app’s future. The move comes as Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin announced Monday a “framework” for a resolution, with a potential agreement expected to be discussed between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday.
The ongoing saga surrounding TikTok centers on national security concerns raised by U.S.lawmakers regarding its Chinese ownership, bytedance. Congress passed legislation earlier this year requiring TikTok to be sold to a U.S.-owned entity or face a ban within a year, fearing user data could be accessed by the chinese government.the initial ban went into effect in January, but was paused by Trump to allow for negotiations. This latest extension marks a continuation of that process, as the administration seeks a solution that addresses security concerns while possibly allowing the app to continue operating in the United States.
According to Pew Research Center surveys,approximately one-third of Americans use TikTok,with roughly half of adult users regularly obtaining news from the platform.The app’s dominance in the social media landscape has amplified the stakes of the dispute.
Trump, speaking to reporters before departing for a state visit to the United Kingdom, indicated that several major companies have expressed interest in acquiring TikTok. “We’ll be announcing that we have a group of very big companies that want to buy it,” he said.
The previous executive order pausing enforcement of the ban was initially issued for 90 days and has been extended multiple times, with the latest order providing another 90-day extension. The outcome of the anticipated conversation between Trump and Xi Jinping will likely determine the future of tiktok in the U.S. market.
