The battle over TikTok’s future in the United States has taken a new turn, with former President Donald Trump filing an amicus brief to the Supreme Court just days before the January 19 deadline that could force the app’s sale or ban.
Trump’s legal filing argues against an immediate ban of the social media platform, which currently serves 170 million American users. His team is pushing for a deadline extension, claiming that as the incoming president, he should have the opportunity to resolve the matter through political channels after taking office on January 20.
The document highlights Trump’s own significant presence on the platform, noting his 14.7 million followers and his self-described role as a major social media influencer. It also references his electoral mandate to protect Americans’ free speech rights.
Key administration officials known for their tough stance on China have already been appointed, creating uncertainty about the eventual outcome even if the Supreme Court grants the requested extension. The timing of the deadline, which expires just one day before Trump’s inauguration, has become a central point of contention in this ongoing dispute.
ByteDance, TikTok’s parent company, awaits the Supreme Court’s decision, which will determine whether they’ll receive additional time for negotiations or face immediate action under the current deadline.
