Former U.S. President Donald Trump has signaled that he may extend the deadline for TikTok to secure a U.S. buyer — a move that could delay the potential nationwide ban of the hugely popular app. This update comes as concerns continue to grow over TikTok’s Chinese ownership and its implications for U.S. national security.
Background: TikTok’s Ongoing Struggles in the U.S.
TikTok has been under intense pressure from U.S. lawmakers over fears that user data could be accessed by the Chinese government, due to its parent company, ByteDance. In January 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld legislation requiring ByteDance to sell TikTok’s U.S. operations by June 19, 2025, or face a ban from American app stores.
The Biden administration has maintained that this move is necessary to protect American users’ data and national interests.
Trump’s Changing Position on TikTok
During his presidency, Trump attempted to ban TikTok, citing national security concerns. However, his stance has evolved over time. By the 2024 election campaign, Trump recognized TikTok’s immense popularity, especially among younger voters, and softened his position.
In a recent interview, Trump expressed that he has a “warm spot” for the platform and is now open to granting ByteDance additional time beyond the June deadline to negotiate a sale to a U.S.-based buyer.
The Impact of a Deadline Extension
Extending the deadline would offer ByteDance more time to finalize a sale of TikTok’s American assets. Several prominent figures, including high-profile entrepreneurs and influencers, have reportedly shown interest in acquiring the app.
Despite this, major obstacles remain. China has voiced strong opposition to any forced sale, and ongoing U.S.-China trade tensions continue to complicate negotiations.
What’s Next for TikTok?
With the June 19 deadline fast approaching, TikTok’s future in the U.S. remains uncertain. Trump’s potential extension offers temporary relief, but the underlying concerns over national security and data privacy remain unresolved.
Millions of TikTok users and content creators are anxiously awaiting updates, as the app’s fate hangs in the balance.
Conclusion
The coming weeks will be critical for TikTok as it navigates political pressure, legal challenges, and international negotiations. Whether Trump grants an extension or not, the debate over TikTok highlights broader concerns about social media, privacy, and the global tech landscape.