Trump Considers Executive Order to Delay TikTok Ban, Offering a Potential Lifeline for the App

President-elect Donald Trump is reportedly contemplating a plan to delay the TikTok ban that is set to take effect this Sunday, potentially giving his incoming administration more time to negotiate a deal for an American acquisition of the app. Sources familiar with the matter have confirmed that Trump’s proposed executive order aims to extend TikTok’s availability to its 170 million American users while the administration works out the logistics of a sale.

The looming ban stems from concerns over national security, with TikTok’s China-based owner, ByteDance, facing pressure from U.S. lawmakers to divest from the app. Despite the fast-approaching deadline, which could result in the app being removed from American app stores, TikTok has continued its fight to stay operational, even as the company prepares for the possibility of going dark.

Trump, who once advocated for the app’s ban, has expressed support for keeping TikTok alive, tweeting in June about his desire to “save TikTok.” His administration may find itself in a race against time, as President Joe Biden’s team appears unlikely to intervene. Furthermore, ByteDance remains adamant about not selling the app, with discussions surrounding a potential purchase by figures such as Elon Musk, Kevin O’Leary, and Frank McCourt. These developments suggest a volatile future for TikTok in the U.S., with key decisions likely hinging on ongoing legal and political maneuvering.