With US Ban Deadline Nearing, TikTok CEO Remains Optimistic About Trump Administration—Here's Why

In a dramatic turn of events, TikTok’s fate in the US remains uncertain after the Supreme Court upheld a nationwide ban unless the app severs ties with its China-based parent company, ByteDance, by 19 January. 

However, TikTok’s CEO Shou Zi Chew has expressed optimism, highlighting US President-elect Donald Trump’s willingness to collaborate on a solution that could keep the platform alive in the US

In a video message, Shou Zi Chew thanked Trump for his “commitment to work with us” to ensure TikTok remains accessible in the United States. 

Chew praised the president’s stance as a “strong stand for the First Amendment and against arbitrary censorship.” His remarks indicate that Trump’s involvement could provide TikTok with a lifeline amidst growing national security concerns surrounding its ties to ByteDance.

While Trump has yet to announce specific plans, reports suggest he is considering an executive order that could delay the ban’s enforcement by 60 to 90 days.

This potential move could offer TikTok additional time to finalise a sale or address security issues, signaling a possible window of opportunity for the platform to secure its US operations.

Despite the high stakes, Trump’s support appears to offer a glimmer of hope for TikTok’s business in the US. 

Adding to the sense of optimism, TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew is expected to attend Trump’s presidential inauguration on 20 January as a high-profile guest. This invitation signals a continued dialogue between the app and the US government, even as the deadline looms.

Further bolstering hopes, Trump revealed that he discussed TikTok’s future during a recent phone call with Chinese President Xi Jinping. 

Although details remain sparse, this conversation underscores TikTok’s geopolitical significance and the possibility of a mutually agreeable resolution.

While the 19 January deadline draws near, Trump’s visible support and the potential for an extended timeline provide a faint but meaningful hope for TikTok. If a sale or other arrangements can be finalised within this window, the platform may yet survive in its largest global market.