TikTok is currently at a crossroads in the United States, with a government deadline to threaten operations coming up. This deadline is very particular because it is part of the 2025 law that will require the app to divest from the United States because of national security worries whether a child has direct or indirect links with its Chinese parent company, ByteDance. But expect things to turn in some new direction when political bigwigs show aggrandizing support for the app’s existence within the space.
Support from American lawmakers and presidential allies
With the arrival of the January 19 deadline, U.S. lawmakers have begun to vociferously weigh in on how they consider the future of TikTok on the U.S. landscape. Among those whose voices are heard on this issue is Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, who has asked for a 90-day extension to allow for ample time needed for an orderly transition or resolution concerning divestiture.
President-elect Donald Trump, adding his own page to this chapter, also seems to have taken upon himself the consideration of changing position. The whirlwind winds of public opinion are not lost even on Trump, for he now reportedly contemplates an executive order delaying enforcement by 60 to 90 days regarding the prohibition he initially spewed forth against the use of the app.
Legal Challenges and the Supreme Court’s Role
Amid the buzz, legal analysts and civil rights proponents are putting their concerns forward showing how the clauses being included can be unconstitutional. Some contend that unless the government provides clear evidence of possible national security threats, it would be a violation of the Americans’ First Amendment rights by prohibiting TikTok. The Supreme Court has already stepped in to review the law that forced divestment from TikTok, clearing the way for what is foreseen to be a major legal ruling in this subject area.
