In an unforeseen turn, TikTok users in the US were left bemused on Saturday when their screens went black. However, the blackout may just be a transitory phase according to President-elect Donald Trump.
Trump declared via Truth Social platform on Sunday, that he plans to pass an executive order extending the ban effectuation period. The move enables the possibility of striking a deal aimed at protecting national security, he clarifies.
Despite TikTok’s temporary closure, Trump had hinted at the possibility of a 90-day extension. Elaborating further on the nature of the proposed deal, he characterized it as a joint venture whereby either existing or new owners join hands with the US gaining a 50% stake.
Reinforcing the ban on TikTok in the US, both the Senate and the House of Representatives passed a law last year, compelling its parent company ByteDance to sell off the app or face the ban. This law was speedily endorsed by incumbent President Joe Biden, despite Trump’s vocal objections.
As we wait for Trump’s presidential inauguration on Monday, the Supreme Court’s approval of the law and its scheduled implementation on Sunday has put the White House and DOJ officials in a tight spot. However, they seem willing to let Trump handle its implementation.
Meanwhile, TikTok declared that without assurances from “key service providers”, the app would go offline. As the shutdown took effect, TikTok buoyed its users, expressing gratitude for Trump’s readiness to work towards reinstating TikTok.
Trump, keen on having TikTok live again before his formal order, appealed to companies to prevent the app from staying offline. His order, he asserts, will shield any company from potential liability for preventing TikTok’s blackout.
In Trump’s words, “Americans deserve to watch our thrilling Inaugural ceremony on Monday, along with other events and dialogues.”
Original source: Read the full article on TechCrunch
