President-elect Donald Trump is poised to make a crucial decision regarding the future of TikTok in the United States as he assumes office on Monday, potentially issuing an executive order granting the platform a 90-day extension to prevent a nationwide ban.

The executive order would provide a lifeline to TikTok in the wake of a Supreme Court decision upholdng the ban, with Trump giving its parent company, ByteDance, additional time to sell its U.S. holdings to a non-Chinese entity, as the Daily Mail reports.

The TikTok ban has been a heated topic, garnering attention from millions of Americans who consider the app an integral part of their social media experience.

The Supreme Court recently permitted the ban to commence, intensifying the urgency for a resolution before President-elect Trump takes office. U.S. authorities have expressed ongoing apprehensions over TikTok's data collection practices, citing national security risks given its connections to China.

Supreme Court Ruling Influences TikTok Strategy

The Supreme Court's ruling has sparked robust debate, with TikTok arguing the move infringes on First Amendment rights.

The court, however, sided with the rationale that the legislation is content-neutral, concentrating on foreign involvement rather than free speech. In response to the ruling, ByteDance was mandated by Congress to divest its interests in TikTok by January 19, 2025.

TikTok and a coalition of users sought judicial intervention to stall the impending ban. Despite these efforts, lower courts, as well as the Supreme Court, have denied these appeals, leaving TikTok with few remedies.

It’s estimated that around 170 million Americans actively use TikTok, raising concerns about potential economic repercussions for both users and content creators.

Trump's Possible Extension for TikTok

President-elect Trump has signaled his willingness to provide TikTok with a temporary reprieve. "I think that would be, certainly, an option that we look at," Trump mentioned to NBC News. "The 90-day extension is something that will be most likely done because it’s appropriate."

His comments suggest a possible shift from his earlier stance during his first term, where he labeled TikTok a threat to national security.

Recently, Trump engaged in communication with China's President Xi Jinping, discussing a range of issues, including TikTok. Following their conversation, Trump relayed on Truth Social, "The call was a very good one for both China and the U.S.A. It is my expectation that we will solve many problems together and starting immediately." This indicates a potential path forward that balances diplomatic relations and domestic concerns.

TikTok CEO's Strategic Involvement

In a symbolic gesture, TikTok's CEO, Shou Zi, will attend Trump's inauguration, highlighting the importance of diplomacy and direct engagement.

Trump's engagement with tech leaders, including Shou Zi, reflects his desire to address pressing issues head-on. Trump recently hosted TikTok's CEO at Mar-a-Lago, where he hinted at his intent to delay the ban, acknowledging TikTok's impact on his electoral success among younger voters.

The incoming president further conveyed his warmth for the app, stating, "I have a little bit of a warm spot in my heart I'll be honest." It's evident that Trump recognizes TikTok's influence on his political fortunes and its cultural significance to American youth.

Broader Implications of TikTok Ban

TikTok’s influence on the political landscape, especially among younger demographics, was noted during the 2024 election. Trump credited the app for his strengthened appeals to younger voters, an acknowledgment that could influence his decision-making process. Influencers have voiced their concerns and shared emotional responses to the potential ban, signaling the tangible impact on personal careers and the digital economy.

Amid this complex situation, Trump remains focused on thoroughly evaluating the circumstances. "We have to look at it carefully. It’s a very big situation. If I decide to do that, I’ll probably announce it on Monday," stated Trump, underscoring the gravity of the decision.

Awaiting Decisive Announcement

Even as the nation awaits an official announcement, Trump's balanced approach suggests he might prioritize a 90-day extension for TikTok. This would furnish additional time for ByteDance to pursue a sale, addressing both security concerns and preserving free speech considerations.

Ultimately, as President-elect Trump prepares to take office, his administration's handling of the TikTok situation will serve as a critical test of his diplomatic and executive capacities. The outcome could have lasting implications for U.S.-China relations and the dynamics of international tech ownership. As Trump deliberates, the eyes of nearly 170 million American TikTok users remain fixed on the unfolding situation.