TikTok Restores US Service Thanks To Trump’s Intervention | News9
TikTok began restoring its services on Sunday, following an announcement by President-elect Donald Trump that he would reinstate the app’s access in the United States once he returns to office. Trump, speaking at a rally ahead of his inauguration, confirmed he would issue an executive order on Monday to delay the enforcement of a law banning TikTok.
“Frankly, we have no choice. We have to save it,” Trump declared, emphasizing his plan to negotiate a joint venture that ensures the app remains accessible to the 170 million Americans who use it. Trump added that the U.S. would seek 50% American ownership in TikTok’s operations as part of the arrangement.
Hours before the rally, TikTok issued a message to its users stating, “Thanks to President Trump’s efforts, TikTok is back in the U.S.” Although some basic services of the app became available on Sunday, it remained inaccessible for download from app stores like Apple and Google.
TikTok thanked Trump for his efforts, explaining that his assurances to service providers had helped remove uncertainties about penalties. The company noted that this move is critical for maintaining its U.S. user base and supporting over 7 million small businesses.
The development comes amid heightened tensions in U.S.-China relations. While Trump has expressed his intent to impose new tariffs on China, he also hinted at potential direct engagement with Chinese leaders. The Chinese government, through its Washington embassy, criticized the U.S. for using state power to suppress TikTok and promised to defend its interests.
The app’s temporary shutdown on Saturday followed a U.S. law banning TikTok over national security concerns. Officials argued that ByteDance, TikTok’s Chinese parent company, posed a risk of mishandling Americans’ personal data. However, Trump’s executive order will postpone the law’s implementation, providing time for negotiations.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated, “I will extend the period before the law takes effect to allow us to secure a deal that protects national security.” He also assured companies involved in keeping TikTok operational that they would not face legal liabilities.
Trump’s approach marks a notable shift from his initial stance during his first term when he sought to ban TikTok outright. He now credits the app with helping him connect with young voters during his 2024 campaign, calling it “a vital platform for creativity and communication.”
Despite Trump’s efforts, not all members of his Republican Party support the move. Senators Tom Cotton and Pete Ricketts issued a joint statement opposing the reprieve, stating that the law’s enforcement should proceed unless ByteDance fully divests from TikTok.
The uncertainty surrounding TikTok’s future led to a spike in searches for VPN services as users sought alternative ways to access the app. Many expressed concerns about delayed shipments from TikTok Shop, the platform’s e-commerce arm, while marketing firms reliant on TikTok scrambled to adjust their strategies.
TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew is expected to attend Trump’s inauguration and a subsequent rally, according to sources. Meanwhile, reports suggest that several parties, including billionaire Elon Musk and former Los Angeles Dodgers owner Frank McCourt, have shown interest in acquiring TikTok’s U.S. operations.
ByteDance, a privately held company, has investors including BlackRock and General Atlantic, which collectively own 60%. The company employs over 7,000 people in the United States, making it a significant player in the tech and social media landscape.
As TikTok restores its services, users and stakeholders eagerly await Trump’s executive order, which could redefine the app’s presence in the U.S. and its relationship with the government. For now, the spotlight remains on the unfolding negotiations and their potential impact on millions of users.
#TrumpSavesTikTok #TikTokIsBack #SocialMediaNews #USChinaRelations #TechPolicy