A TikTok ban is set to take effect on Sunday, January 19th, following the Supreme Court's rejection of an appeal. The court unanimously dismissed TikTok's First Amendment challenge, citing the platform's scale, susceptibility to foreign control, and extensive data collection as justifying the ban to address national security concerns. While acknowledging TikTok's significant role in communication and community for over 170 million Americans, the court upheld Congress's determination that divestiture is necessary.
Without political intervention, TikTok will be unavailable in the U.S. on Sunday. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre stated President Biden's preference is for TikTok to remain available under American ownership. However, implementation will fall to President-elect Donald Trump's administration, effective Monday.
The Supreme Court ruling emphasizes the balance between free expression and national security concerns, acknowledging TikTok's value while upholding the need for divestiture to address data collection practices and foreign influence.
Trump, previously opposed to a complete ban, may issue an executive order delaying enforcement for 60-90 days. He reportedly is discussing the matter with Chairman Xi Jinping. While China's willingness to sell TikTok completely remains uncertain, reports suggest this is a possibility. Elon Musk, involved in the incoming Trump administration, is reportedly being considered as an intermediary for potential western buyers, or may even attempt a purchase himself.
Meanwhile, users are migrating to alternative platforms like Red Note (Xiaohongshu), with Reuters reporting over 700,000 new users in just two days.
TikTok's future in the U.S. hinges on finding a new owner or ceasing operations, unless a Trump administration executive order intervenes.
