In a landmark ruling on Friday, the US Supreme Court upheld a law that could effectively ban TikTok in the United States, putting the popular video-sharing app at risk of shutting down for over 170 million American users within just two days.
The decision marks a significant setback for TikTok, as the court determined that the law does not infringe upon free speech rights and supported the government’s stance on national security concerns, citing the Chinese ownership of the app as a potential threat.
The ruling came after ByteDance, TikTok’s parent company, argued the law should be blocked, claiming it violated free speech protections.
The justices acknowledged the app’s role as a “distinctive and expansive outlet for expression” for millions of Americans but sided with Congress’s position that national security risks surrounding data collection and foreign influence necessitated the ban.
“The legislation’s focus on addressing well-supported national security concerns regarding TikTok’s data practices and its relationship with a foreign adversary justifies the action,” the court stated.
With the ruling in place, the ban is poised to take effect on Sunday, January 19, 2025, despite calls from lawmakers across the political spectrum, including Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, for a delay to allow more time for negotiations on a potential American buyer for the platform.
The law passed last year requires ByteDance to either sell the app or shut it down in the U.S. by the deadline, amid fears that the app could be exploited by the Chinese government for surveillance or propaganda purposes.
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White House officials confirmed they would not enforce the ban immediately, leaving the final decision in the hands of President-elect Donald Trump, who will take office the following day.
Trump had previously expressed support for TikTok and is reportedly looking for ways to delay the ban or save the app.
Incoming national security adviser Mike Waltz indicated that the administration might extend the deadline if ongoing negotiations for a viable deal were progressing.
TikTok’s legal team warned that the app could “go dark” on Sunday if the court’s decision stands, with reports suggesting the company is preparing to suspend its services entirely in the U.S.
In the meantime, the responsibility of enforcing the ban will fall to Trump’s attorney general once he assumes office, who may choose to delay its implementation or even challenge Congress’s decision.
TikTok CEO Shou Chew is also expected to attend Trump’s inauguration on Monday, signaling continued efforts by the company to resolve the ongoing legal battle.
