TikTok has resumed services for its 170 million US users after a dramatic weekend marked by legal and political wrangling. The popular app, owned by Chinese company ByteDance, had ceased operations in the United States on Saturday evening following the enforcement of a ban over national security concerns.
President-elect Donald Trump announced on Sunday that he would issue an executive order delaying the ban, allowing negotiations for a solution. TikTok thanked Trump for his decision and confirmed it was working to restore access. By Sunday, the app was back online, accompanied by a message thanking Trump directly.
The ban, upheld by the Supreme Court last Friday, required ByteDance to sell its US operations. While Trump had previously supported the ban, he reversed course, citing a “warm spot” for TikTok due to its role in his campaign’s online success.
Legal experts remain sceptical about Trump’s authority to halt a law already in effect. Solicitor General Elizabeth Prelogar argued during Supreme Court hearings that executive orders cannot retroactively override legislation. However, the law includes a clause allowing delays if progress is made on addressing security risks.
Despite Trump’s assurances, tensions within his own party persist. Prominent Republicans, including Senator Tom Cotton, warn that aiding TikTok could lead to legal consequences. Meanwhile, states have filed lawsuits that could result in regional bans even if the app remains nationally available.
As Trump’s executive order is awaited, uncertainty surrounds TikTok’s long-term future in the United States. Observers expect clarity only after Trump assumes office on Monday and takes formal action.
