Deep Dive
Why did the US initially want to ban TikTok?
The White House, under Joe Biden, cited national security concerns, believing TikTok could siphon US data to Beijing for propaganda and espionage purposes due to its Chinese ownership.
What is the current deadline for TikTok's ban in the US?
TikTok is due to be banned in the US on January 19, 2025, unless it separates from its Chinese parent company, ByteDance.
What was the purpose of TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew's meeting with Donald Trump?
Chew met with Trump to potentially extend the January 19 deadline for TikTok to separate from ByteDance, as the app is set to be banned unless it is sold by that date.
How has Donald Trump's stance on TikTok changed over time?
Initially, Trump considered banning TikTok, but now he has expressed a 'warm spot' for the app, claiming it helped him win youth votes by 34 points in the last election.
What legal power does Trump have to stop the TikTok ban?
Trump cannot outright reverse the ban but could potentially grant ByteDance a three-month extension to facilitate a sale, though ByteDance has insisted it does not want to do so.
How has TikTok responded to the proposed ban?
TikTok has been fighting the ban at every legal step, appealing to the US Supreme Court to oppose the law, and claiming it is unconstitutional and unfeasible to spin off by January.
What is Donald Trump's current follower count on TikTok?
Trump has 14.7 million followers on TikTok, a platform he joined in June during his presidential campaign.
How has Trump's TikTok strategy been received?
Trump's TikTok strategy has been effective, with his first post gaining 44 million views in a day. His content is tailored to engage young people, focusing on high-energy, shareable moments.
What challenges does TikTok face in the US beyond the ban?
TikTok is already banned in India, setting a precedent for successful app bans, and it faces ongoing legal battles in the US to prevent its removal.
What impact could the TikTok ban have on users like Chris Quazo?
For users like Chris Quazo, who rely on TikTok for livelihood, the ban could be a significant financial blow, as they see the app as a positive force in society.
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