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national security risks stemming from its Chinese ties outweighing concerns over curtailing the app’s speech or that of its 170 million U.S. users, Trump stated:
“It ultimately goes up to me, so you’re going to see what I’m going to do. Congress has given me the decision, so I’ll be making the decision.”
However, Trump refrained from providing further details regarding his prospective decision.
Donald Trump is known for the Art of the Deal. I trust he will negotiate a way to keep TikTok that benefits us. TikTok was instrumental in reaching young Americans in this election cycle. The app has 170 million users. A ban could have ramifications in the midterms and 2028. pic.twitter.com/xliZsV6FVO
— Link Lauren (@itslinklauren) January 17, 2025
Subsequently, Trump took to Truth Social, stating: “The Supreme Court decision was expected, and everyone must respect it. My decision on TikTok will be made in the not too distant future, but I must have time to review the situation. Stay tuned!”
Earlier in the day, Trump had engaged in a conversation with Chinese President Xi Jinping. He has consistently maintained that he could negotiate a resolution to TikTok’s predicament. The outgoing Biden administration has signaled its intention not to enforce the law beginning Sunday, Biden’s final full day in office.
BREAKING: TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew thanks President Trump for working to find a solution to keep TikTok available in the US. pic.twitter.com/Tgjh6hj7eo
— Charlie Kirk (@charliekirk11) January 17, 2025
Trump, cognizant of TikTok’s popularity and his own 14.7 million followers on the app, finds himself at odds with prominent Senate Republicans who criticize TikTok’s Chinese owner for failing to secure a buyer before the present juncture.
The available options for Trump once he assumes the presidency on Monday remain unclear. The law permitted a 90-day pause in the restrictions on the app if progress had been made toward a sale before its enforcement.
“Solicitor General Elizabeth Prelogar, who defended the law at the Supreme Court for the Biden administration, told the justices last week that it’s uncertain whether the prospect of a sale once the law is in effect could trigger a 90-day respite for TikTok.”
The Associated Press contributed to this story.