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With the clock ticking toward a federal ban on TikTok, the Biden administration announced it would not enforce the controversial law, deferring its implementation to the incoming Trump administration. The ban, set to take effect Sunday, stems from bipartisan concerns over the app’s Chinese ownership and its implications for U.S. national security.
“Given the timing of when it goes into effect over a holiday weekend a day before inauguration, it will be up to the next administration to implement,” a White House official said.
Under the legislation, signed into law by President Joe Biden last April, TikTok and service providers enabling U.S. access could face fines totaling $850 billion if they fail to block the app. Despite these penalties, the Biden administration has opted to avoid any disruption, ensuring TikTok remains operational as President-elect Donald Trump assumes office.
Trump, who has vowed to “save” TikTok, is reportedly exploring options to keep the platform accessible while addressing security concerns. “TikTok should continue to operate but under American ownership,” a White House official reiterated.
Congressional Response and National Security Concerns
The decision to delay enforcement has drawn mixed reactions. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., expressed support for the deferral, citing the economic impact on millions of influencers and businesses reliant on the app. “More time is needed to find an American buyer and not disrupt the lives and livelihoods of millions of Americans,” Schumer said on the Senate floor.
National security concerns remain a focal point of the debate. FBI Director Christopher Wray and other officials have repeatedly warned that TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, could be compelled to share user data with the Chinese government. “The ability to collect data and control content algorithms poses significant risks,” Wray noted.
These concerns echo Trump’s 2020 executive order attempting to ban TikTok, which cited ByteDance’s data collection as a direct threat to U.S. privacy and security.
Uncertain Future for TikTok
While TikTok has denied posing any security risk, the Biden administration’s deferral reflects an unresolved bipartisan issue. “Our intelligence and national security professionals continue to view TikTok as a risk,” said National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan last month.
The incoming Trump administration will now face the challenge of balancing national security priorities with preserving economic opportunities tied to the platform. The Supreme Court may also play a decisive role, as it could rule on the legality of the ban at any time.
For now, TikTok users in the U.S. can continue using the app without interruption, but its long-term future remains uncertain.
