The Biden administration has decided not to enforce a ban on TikTok, instead deferring the app’s future to President-elect Donald Trump, a U.S. official confirmed Thursday. The popular video-sharing platform, owned by Chinese company ByteDance, faces a January 19 deadline to divest its U.S. operations or face a potential ban under national security laws enacted last year.
An official, speaking anonymously, stated that the Biden administration is leaving enforcement of the law and any further action on TikTok to the incoming administration. Although Trump previously advocated banning TikTok during his first term over concerns about data security and its ties to China, his stance has since shifted. Throughout his 2024 campaign, Trump actively used TikTok to reach younger voters, pledging to “save TikTok” if re-elected.
Trump’s national security team has signaled a potential deal to allow TikTok to remain operational in the U.S., provided it addresses security concerns. TikTok’s CEO, Shou Zi Chew, is reportedly attending Trump’s inauguration, reflecting the app’s importance in ongoing discussions about its future.
The fate of TikTok has become a bipartisan issue, sparking debates in Congress. On Thursday, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer called for an extension of the deadline to avoid widespread disruption for TikTok users and creators, emphasizing the app’s role in supporting livelihoods. However, Republican Senator Tom Cotton opposed the move, reiterating concerns about the app being a national security threat.
Cotton described TikTok as a “Chinese Communist spy app” that gathers user data and spreads propaganda. Meanwhile, Supreme Court justices recently heard arguments challenging the law that mandates ByteDance’s divestment, though they appear likely to uphold the legislation.
As the January 19 deadline looms, President-elect Trump has expressed his intent to balance TikTok’s popularity with protecting American data. His administration is expected to explore a deal to address these concerns, signaling a sharp contrast from his earlier calls for an outright ban.
The next steps for TikTok remain uncertain, as both the new administration and legal challenges will play a critical role in determining the app’s future.
