Trump Adviser Hints at Options to Save TikTok Ahead of Possible Ban/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ President-elect Donald Trump is exploring options to preserve TikTok as the Supreme Court considers upholding a law that could ban the platform over national security concerns. Trump adviser Mike Waltz emphasized the importance of protecting users’ data while maintaining the app’s benefits. Trump has reversed his earlier position on banning TikTok, now crediting the platform for boosting his 2024 campaign.
Key Points on Trump’s TikTok Preservation Efforts
- Legal Deadline Approaches: TikTok faces a potential nationwide ban by Sunday unless ByteDance divests its U.S. operations, following national security concerns.
- Trump Exploring Executive Action: President-elect Donald Trump is considering an executive order to “preserve” TikTok while ensuring user data protection.
- Mike Waltz’s Statement: Trump’s national security adviser-designate, Mike Waltz, hinted at a possible deal to safeguard the app during an interview with Fox News.
- Pam Bondi’s Ambiguity: Trump’s attorney general pick, Pam Bondi, declined to state whether she would enforce a TikTok ban during her confirmation hearing.
- Shift in Trump’s Stance: Trump has reversed his first-term efforts to ban TikTok, now crediting the platform for helping him connect with younger voters during his 2024 campaign.
- Supreme Court Involvement: The court recently heard arguments on the law requiring TikTok’s divestment, signaling it may uphold the legislation.
- Potential Impact on Youth Engagement: Trump’s team used TikTok effectively to boost his appeal to younger voters during his campaign, making its preservation a political priority.
- National Security Focus: The Trump administration aims to balance the platform’s popularity with concerns over data privacy and foreign ownership.
- Uncertainty Over Legal Challenges: Trump’s executive action, if pursued, could face court battles over its legality.
Trump Adviser Hints at Options to Save TikTok Ahead of Possible Ban
Deep Look
National Security Concerns and Legal Challenges
TikTok, owned by China-based ByteDance, faces a legal challenge that could force the company to divest its U.S. operations or face a nationwide ban. The Supreme Court recently heard arguments on the case and is expected to uphold the law. This has created urgency within the Trump transition team to address the platform’s future before Sunday, the deadline for enforcement.
Mike Waltz Teases Executive Action
“If the Supreme Court upholds the law, President Trump has made it clear he values TikTok as a platform that connects Americans while protecting their privacy,” Waltz said.
While not offering specifics, Waltz hinted at Trump’s inclination to broker a deal: “He’s a deal maker…we’re going to create this space to put that deal in place.”
Pam Bondi’s Ambiguous Stance
Trump’s pick for attorney general, Pam Bondi, declined to comment during her Senate confirmation hearing on whether she would enforce a TikTok ban.
Trump’s Evolving Position on TikTok
During his first term, Trump pushed to ban TikTok over national security concerns. However, during his 2024 campaign, Trump embraced the platform, using it to connect with younger voters and generate viral content. He even credited TikTok with helping him secure more youth votes, pledging to “save TikTok” if elected.
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