Bipartisan critics suggest that TikTok’s operations in the U.S. are becoming more complicated, especially if President Trump decides to once again extend the deadline for China-based apps to sell in the country.
Sources close to the White House indicate that the concerns are serious, pointing to the app’s ties to the Chinese Communist Party and its potential threats in terms of global influence, adding another layer to the ongoing debates about TikTok’s future.
A scenario regarding TikTok’s immediate future was reported on Tuesday, describing how a banker involved in the deal has said that Trump is considering making TikTok “disappear” from app stores by June 19. This might, according to their perspective, give him a strategic advantage in the intricate landscape of U.S.-China trade relations.
It seems, however, that Trump could be preparing to throw TikTok another lifeline. Sources believe he has a fondness for the app, thinking it played a role in his decisions regarding the 2024 election, even if its data collection raises concerns about privacy. He is likely set to extend TikTok’s ban deadline for a third time, coinciding with upcoming trade talks with President Xi Jinping.
Moreover, it appears that Congress might not be as engaged in pushing back this time around. With lawmakers occupied by other pressing legislation, including a major tax bill, the chances of a significant backlash against Trump’s decisions could be lower.
“There’s about an 80% chance of a 75-day extension,” mentioned a Wall Street executive involved in negotiations aimed at preventing TikTok from going dark by transferring ownership to majority U.S. investors.
Concerns related to TikTok have seemingly fallen lower on the priority list amid broader discussions regarding China and economic policies.
The White House has not commented further on the situation.
TikTok has consistently denied allegations of being a surveillance tool for the CCP, even though skepticism remains widespread. Interestingly, Trump has had a changing stance over time—initially calling for a ban during his first term.
After a temporary darkness set in following the implementation of a law signed by former President Biden, TikTok received a reprieve when Trump inaugurated the first extension upon returning to office.
Further efforts were made to transfer TikTok’s operations to a majority-American ownership, but the challenges posed by trade tensions with China complicate the landscape significantly.
If the deal comes through, it would be spearheaded by Oracle, a significant tech player backed by Larry Ellison, a known supporter of Trump.
