Trump Hints at Keeping TikTok Around as Ban Looms

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So…Is TikTok Getting Banned or Not?

President-elect Donald Trump suggested over the weekend that TikTok might stick around a bit longer despite a looming ban. Speaking to a crowd of enthusiastic supporters in Phoenix, Trump shared his thoughts on the wildly popular app, which has been at the center of heated debates over national security and free expression.

“We’re going to have to start thinking about this,” Trump said, reflecting on his own experiences with TikTok. “You know, we went on TikTok, and the response was incredible—billions of views, record numbers. They brought me a chart, and it was beautiful. As I looked at it, I thought, ‘Maybe we gotta keep this sucker around for a little while.’”

Trump’s remarks have sparked curiosity about his stance on the future of TikTok, especially given the current administration’s efforts to force ByteDance, TikTok’s Chinese parent company, to sell the app by January 19—or face a nationwide ban.

A Soft Spot for TikTok

Earlier this week, Trump reportedly met with TikTok’s CEO to discuss the app’s fate. Following the meeting, he expressed a “warm spot” in his heart for the platform, which has captivated millions of American users, particularly younger generations.

While ByteDance is actively challenging the pending sale order in court, the Supreme Court is set to hear arguments on January 10, just days before the critical deadline. President Joe Biden’s administration has stood firm on its demand for ByteDance to divest TikTok, citing security concerns over user data potentially being accessed by the Chinese government.

What’s Next for TikTok?

With Trump’s comments, the future of TikTok is more uncertain than ever. Will the incoming president work to negotiate an extension or reconsider the ban altogether? Could ByteDance find a solution that satisfies security concerns while keeping the app alive in the U.S.?

For now, TikTok users and creators are holding their breath, waiting to see if their favorite platform will survive the political spotlight.

A Playful Remark or a Shift in Policy?

Whether Trump’s comments reflect a genuine policy shift or simply a moment of levity remains unclear. What is certain, however, is that TikTok’s influence and popularity are undeniable.

As the January deadline approaches, all eyes will be on the courts, ByteDance, and the incoming Trump administration to determine what’s next for the app that’s reshaped digital entertainment and communication.

For TikTok users, one thing is clear: the countdown to January 19 will be a rollercoaster ride.