In a dramatic turn of events, TikTok has made a last-minute attempt to prevent a potential ban in the United States. On 16 December 2024, TikTok and its parent company ByteDance submitted an emergency request to the US Supreme Court seeking to block a law that mandates the divestment of the app by 19 January, or face a shutdown.
Concerns Over National Security
The law, passed by Congress in April amid rising national security concerns, deems TikTok a significant threat due to its ties to China. The Justice Department has pointed out that the app could compromise user data, ranging from private messages to location details, while also having the ability to manipulate content.
Legal Actions and Free Speech
TikTok argues that the law imposes a major restriction on free speech, asserting it is one of the “most important speech platforms” in America, with over 170 million monthly users. The platform has been vocal about how the implementation of this law would harm small businesses and users who depend on TikTok for communication and commerce.
- Legal challenge filed to halt the law temporarily
- Concern over potential loss of user base
- Claims that the ban contradicts free speech principles
Trump’s Support
The appeal coincided with a meeting between TikTok CEO Chew Shou Zi and President-elect Donald Trump. Trump’s administration is set to take office on 20 January, and he has expressed a keen interest in reviewing the situation, stating he has a “warm spot” for TikTok. This is a significant shift from his previous stance when he attempted to place a ban on the app in his first term.
Impact on US-China Relations
The unfolding events are likely to further strain relations between the US and China, particularly as the potential ban could trigger upcoming legislative actions against other foreign-owned applications.
With the deadline looming, TikTok is clamouring for a Supreme Court decision by 6 January 2025, to avert any immediate operational disruptions. The app’s fate now hangs in the balance as legal battles and political manoeuvrings continue.