High-Stakes Meeting Between Trump and TikTok’s CEO

Donald Trump met TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew at Mar-a-Lago, Florida, amid growing pressure on the platform. CBS News confirmed their meeting as TikTok fights to delay its potential US ban.

A recent law requires TikTok to be sold or banned by January 19, 2025. ByteDance, TikTok’s parent company, faces pressure to sell or face the ban. TikTok asked the US Supreme Court for more time to prevent immediate enforcement.

National Security Concerns and Legal Challenges

US authorities claim ByteDance’s links to China pose national security threats. Both TikTok and ByteDance deny these claims. Supporters of the law argue it protects US security from foreign-controlled apps.

Although Trump previously supported a TikTok ban, he now opposes it. He believes a ban could benefit Facebook, a platform he criticizes. Trump’s second term starts January 20, a day after TikTok’s deadline.

TikTok’s Supreme Court filing requests a “modest delay” in enforcing the ban. TikTok argues a delay allows the Court’s review and gives the incoming administration time to reassess. TikTok calls itself a major US speech platform and warns the ban would cause “immediate irreparable harm.”

A federal appeals court recently rejected TikTok’s attempt to overturn the ban. The court ruled that the law reflects bipartisan support from Congress and multiple presidents.

During a press conference, Trump suggested his administration would review TikTok’s situation. “I have a warm spot for TikTok because I won youth by 34 points,” Trump stated. He acknowledged claims that TikTok’s influence helped him gain youth support.

While most young voters supported Kamala Harris in November, Trump gained more support from voters aged 18 to 29 than in 2020. Trump’s TikTok presence, launched in June, quickly attracted millions of followers during his campaign.