Trump Signed the Order Delaying TikTok Ban Despite the US Lawmakers' Challenges

 

Despite much congressional skepticism, US President Donald Trump signed an executive order delaying TikTok's ban in the US on Monday (January 20) to pursue a suitable political solution.

 

The law banning TikTok was enforced at midnight on Sunday (January 19th). However, the executive order allows a 75-day delay for the TikTok ban to take effect. Within 75 days, the Trump administration will determine an appropriate way forward for TikTok's US operations.

 

The executive order emphasizes that the effective date has inhibited President Trump's ability to assess the national security and foreign policy connection to the TikTok ban and to avoid the sudden shutdown of the TikTok platform.

 

In an interview with reporters on Monday night, Trump reiterated his vision of TikTok's resolution: TikTok's company selling 50% ownership to the US in exchange for the ban's lifting. Trump also spoke about imposing tariffs on China if it disapproves of the proposed buyer of TikTok's US assets.

 

TikTok has been unavailable in the US since Saturday night. TikTok did not resume service until Monday when Trump gave it a promise.

 

Although Trump has promised to protect TikTok, US congresspeople have questioned whether Trump has the authority to honor that promise.

 

Republican Senators Tom Cotton and Pete Ricketts stated earlier on Sunday that TikTok’s ban had no legal basis for an extension. Earlier this week, Cotton declared that this ban would not be extended, conceded, or compromised. House Speaker Mike Johnson also said on Sunday that he wanted the current law enforced.

 

 

As of Monday, TikTok is unavailable for download on the Apple App Store and Google Play.