Can Donald Trump 'Save TikTok'? The Clock is Ticking

As the clock ticks down to the potential U.S. ban of TikTok, all eyes are on President-elect Donald Trump. Can he 'save' the popular social media platform from its impending fate? The answer lies in a complex web of political, legal, and national security challenges.

TikTok's troubles began in 2020 when the Trump administration attempted to ban the app, citing national security concerns. The move was supported by many in Congress, leading to a law passed in April 2021 requiring TikTok's parent company, ByteDance, to divest its U.S. operations by mid-January 2023. Trump's reversal in supporting TikTok could face political backlash, as he previously aligned himself with those advocating for the app's ban.

Trump's intervention could potentially delay or even reverse the TikTok ban, but the court case is ongoing, and a ruling is expected by Dec. 6. If the law is upheld, Trump's Justice Department would be responsible for enforcement, but he could choose not to, or issue an executive order to nullify the ban. Alternatively, he could urge Congress to repeal the law, but this would require bipartisan support.



Trump could potentially reverse the TikTok ban through three main strategies, each with its own political and legal challenges. Firstly, he could push Congress to repeal the ban, which would require bipartisan support and could be perceived as conciliatory towards China. Secondly, he could refuse to enforce the ban, but this might face legal pushback from the Justice Department. Lastly, he could issue an executive order to nullify the ban, which may not be legally sound.

Trump's intervention in TikTok's U.S. ban could significantly impact the U.S.-China relationship. If Trump reverses the ban, it could ease tensions, signaling a more conciliatory approach. However, this could also be perceived as capitulating to China, potentially straining relations with lawmakers who support the ban. Conversely, if Trump allows the ban to proceed, it could escalate tensions, further complicating ongoing trade negotiations. Geopolitically, Trump's decision could influence China's stance on other issues, such as intellectual property rights and technology transfer.

In conclusion, Trump's ability to 'save' TikTok is uncertain, as he faces political and legal challenges in reversing the ban. His intervention could have significant implications for the U.S.-China relationship and geopolitical dynamics. As the clock ticks down, investors and stakeholders alike await Trump's next move, hoping for a resolution that balances national security concerns with the economic and social impact of the popular app.