This was surprising to see.
Late Saturday night, TikTok went dark across the U.S., leaving millions of Americans unable to access the app. The sudden blackout came as TikTok notified users of an imminent ban, triggered by a new law signed into effect just days before President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration.
Users attempting to open the app were greeted with a message: “Sadly, TikTok is not available at this time. A new law banning TikTok has been enforced in the United States Unfortunately, this means you cannot use the app for now.” The app also acknowledged Trump’s role in the situation, stating, “We are thankful that President Donald Trump has revealed that is going to work with TikTok on a remedy to re-open TikTok once he takes office. Please stay tuned!”
By 10:50 p.m. EST, TikTok had been removed from both Apple and Google’s app stores. This move came after a law was signed by President Biden, which forced TikTok’s China-based parent company, ByteDance, to sell the platform or face a total ban. If ByteDance failed to meet the Sunday deadline, U.S. law prohibited internet hosting services from offering the app to American users.
On Sunday morning, President Trump sent a two-word message via Truth Social: “SAVE TIKTOK!” Many members of Congress who supported the legislation argue the ban is crucial to protecting national security and preventing Chinese influence over American media. According to them, TikTok’s ties to China present an ongoing risk, particularly regarding the potential for spreading foreign propaganda.
Despite the law’s clear deadline, the Biden administration had not yet taken definitive action. The White House, however, indicated that enforcing the ban would be Trump’s responsibility once he assumes office. As the clock ticked down, TikTok issued a statement saying it would “go dark” on Sunday unless the Biden administration provided clarity on the matter. The company stressed that without clear guidance from the government, it would be forced to cease operations, noting the law’s “failure to provide necessary clarity” for service providers.
TikTok’s CEO, Shou Zi Chew, expressed gratitude to Trump, thanking him for his “determination to work with alongside us” on finding a solution. “This is a massive stand for the 1st Amendment and against unnecessary censorship,” he said in a video released Friday. Although Trump previously expressed opposition to a blanket TikTok ban during his presidential campaign, he also led efforts to block the app during his first term.
Now, with the deadline looming, it’s clear that the fate of TikTok in America hinges on the decisions of the incoming Trump administration. For Republicans who prioritize national security and the protection of American values, the ban could be a significant victory. How the new administration handles the issue could shape future conversations around tech, security, and American sovereignty.