TikTok Faces Ban by Sunday After Supreme Court Rejects Appeal

A TikTok ban is set to take effect on Sunday, January 19th, following the Supreme Court's rejection of an appeal. The court unanimously dismissed TikTok's First Amendment challenge, citing concerns over national security. While acknowledging the platform's widespread use and role in expression, the justices emphasized TikTok's scale, susceptibility to foreign control, and the vast amount of sensitive data it collects as justification for the ban. The ruling states that divestiture is necessary to address national security concerns regarding data collection practices and the platform's relationship with a foreign adversary.

Without political intervention, TikTok will cease operations in the U.S. on Sunday. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre stated President Biden prefers TikTok remain available under American ownership, but implementation will fall to President-elect Trump's administration, beginning Monday.

The Supreme Court's decision explicitly acknowledges TikTok's importance to its users but prioritizes national security concerns. It reads: “There is no doubt that, for more than 170 million Americans, TikTok offers a distinctive and expansive outlet for expression, means of engagement, and source of community. But Congress has determined that divestiture is necessary to address its well-supported national security concerns regarding TikTok’s data collection practices and relationship with a foreign adversary. For the foregoing reasons, we conclude that the challenged provisions do not violate petitioners’ First Amendment rights.”

Despite previously opposing a ban, Trump may issue an executive order delaying enforcement for 60-90 days. He reportedly stated on Truth Social that he is discussing the ban with Chairman Xi Jinping.

China's willingness to sell TikTok entirely remains uncertain, though reports suggest it's a possibility. Elon Musk, involved in the incoming Trump administration, is reportedly being considered as an intermediary for potential western buyers, or may even attempt a purchase himself.

Meanwhile, users have migrated to the similar Chinese app, Red Note (Xiaohongshu), with Reuters reporting over 700,000 new users in just two days.

TikTok's future in the U.S. hinges on a sale or cessation of operations, unless a Trump executive order intervenes.