TikTok Restores Service in the U.S. After Trump Pledges Reprieve

TikTok resumed operations for its 170 million U.S. users after President-elect Donald Trump pledged to delay a ban on the app, citing the need for more time to address national security concerns. On Saturday evening, the Chinese-owned platform stopped working as a law banning it took effect, but Trump announced he would issue an executive order on Monday to provide a temporary reprieve.

By Sunday, TikTok restored access, thanking Trump for “providing clarity and assurance” while committing to a long-term solution to remain in the U.S. The app’s CEO, Shou Chew, is expected to attend Trump’s inauguration, signaling ongoing discussions about TikTok’s future.

The ban stemmed from a law passed last April, requiring TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, to sell its U.S. operations. Despite the Supreme Court upholding the law, Trump has shifted his stance, now expressing support for the platform, which he claims was instrumental in reaching young voters during his campaign.

TikTok’s temporary shutdown ignited political debate, with some Republicans, including Senate Intelligence Committee Chair Tom Cotton, opposing Trump’s decision to delay the ban. Cotton warned that companies aiding TikTok could face significant legal liabilities. Meanwhile, others, like Marco Rubio, deferred to the president-elect, indicating party divisions over the issue.

Legal experts remain uncertain about Trump’s authority to override the law, as highlighted during Supreme Court hearings. While the law allows a 90-day postponement if progress on national security concerns is demonstrated, it’s unclear whether TikTok meets these conditions. Trump has promised to shield companies supporting the platform, though critics argue his executive order could face legal challenges.

Although TikTok is live again, its future in the U.S. remains uncertain, with potential local bans and legal battles looming. For now, Trump’s intervention has bought the app more time to negotiate a path forward.