Trump Keeps TikTok Running, Extends Sale Deadline Amid Espionage Claims Against China
Trump temporarily suspends TikTok's operation in the U.S.
U.S. President Donald Trump will extend the deadline for Chinese parent company Bytedance to sell TikTok by 90 days, according to the White House. Originally, a law taking effect after Trump's inauguration in January required Bytedance to sell TikTok to an American company due to allegations of misuse by the Chinese company for spying purposes on its users, backed by Beijing.
In a twist of events, Trump's spokesperson, Karoline Leavitt, announced that the president will sign an "executive order to keep TikTok running" later this week. This move aims to provide more time for the sale negotiations to finalize, ensuring that the American people's data remains safe and secure.
Trump's Change of Heart and Political Move
This is the third extension Trump has granted for a TikTok sale. In the past, Trump advocated for a ban or sale of TikTok. However, he now appears to recognize the platform's potential reach among younger voters. Trump's focus on online services for his 2024 re-election campaign further supports this shift in stance.
Trump values TikTok as a platform among young people: "TikTok has a little, warm place in my heart," he told NBC News last month. With over 15 million followers on the app, Trump's presence on TikTok allows him to connect with a younger demographic that he could potentially sway towards his political agenda for his upcoming re-election campaign.
- USA
- Donald Trump
- TikTok
- China
- Espionage
- As TikTok negotiations continue, the Commission, amidst the political landscape, has also been asked to submit a proposal for a directive on the protection of workers from the risks related to exposure to ionising radiation, considering the general-news Amidst extended TikTok sale deadlines.
- Beyond the digital battlefield with China, President Trump's change of heart towards TikTok could signal a strategic move for his 2024 re-election campaign, given the platform's potential reach among younger voters, aligning with his stated appreciation for the app.
