What’s Next for TikTok? Trump Delays Ban

TikTok isn’t banned—for now. President Donald Trump signed an order delaying the app’s U.S. ban by 75 days. The delay might give TikTok users a breather, but it raises questions about executive authority, U.S.-China relations, and the government’s role in private business.

Congress passed a law requiring TikTok’s Chinese owner, ByteDance, to sell its U.S. operations by Jan. 19, citing national security concerns. The law, upheld by the Supreme Court, left no wiggle room for an extension unless a sale agreement was reached, and there is none. Trump’s move to circumvent it has already been called illegal, with Representative Frank Pallone accusing him of sidestepping bipartisan legislation.

The order doesn't just raise procedural questions; it challenges the balance of power between Congress, the courts, and the president.

Trump has proposed that the US government take a 50% stake in TikTok in the US. He argues that allowing TikTok to operate creates “value” for the app, so the US should benefit. Never before has the government required equity in a private company as part of a regulatory decision. It’s unclear how this fits into the original goal of addressing national security concerns. Is it about data protection, the use of economic influence, or something else entirely?

Tense time for U.S.-China relations

Trump has hinted at tariffs if Beijing doesn't cooperate on the TikTok deal, making matters worse.

Interestingly, China has shown signs of being open to keeping TikTok operating in the US, but nothing is set in stone yet.

If the TikTok situation becomes a bargaining chip in the trade war, it could have ripple effects that extend far beyond the social media app.

Apple and Google

TikTok is still working for existing users, but you can’t download it from app stores. Trump has tasked the Justice Department with assuring companies like Apple and Google that they won’t be penalized for working with TikTok.

Whether that’s enough for the tech giants to reinstate the app remains a big question — and one that could make or break TikTok’s future in the U.S.

Bottom Line Is

Trump’s actions buy TikTok time, but they also create uncertainty. Is this delay a genuine solution or just political maneuvering?

With legal challenges likely and tensions rising between the U.S. and China, TikTok’s future is more uncertain than ever.

This isn’t just about one app — it’s a moment that could determine how the U.S. treats foreign tech companies for years to come.

For now, TikTok users are caught in the middle, waiting for a resolution to a drama that shows no signs of slowing down.