TikTok announced on Sunday that it is in the process of restoring its services in the United States following assurances from President-elect Donald Trump.
Trump confirmed he plans to sign an executive order on his first day in office, ensuring that companies supporting TikTok’s operations will not face penalties.
“In agreement with our service providers, TikTok is in the process of restoring service,” the company said in a statement. “We thank President Trump for providing the necessary clarity and assurance to our service providers that they will face no penalties for supporting TikTok. This decision helps over 170 million Americans continue to enjoy the platform and allows more than 7 million small businesses to thrive.”
STATEMENT FROM TIKTOK:
— TikTok Policy (@TikTokPolicy) January 19, 2025
In agreement with our service providers, TikTok is in the process of restoring service. We thank President Trump for providing the necessary clarity and assurance to our service providers that they will face no penalties providing TikTok to over 170…
TikTok also praised the move as a stand for free expression. “It’s a strong stand for the First Amendment and against arbitrary censorship. We will work with President Trump on a long-term solution to keep TikTok in the United States.”
Earlier in the day, Trump announced he would issue an executive order on Monday, immediately after his inauguration, to delay the nationwide ban on TikTok. The move is intended to give more time to finalize a deal that would address national security concerns while ensuring the app’s continued operation.
“I’m asking companies not to let TikTok stay dark!” Trump posted on Truth Social. “I will issue an executive order to extend the period before the law’s prohibitions take effect, allowing us to finalize a deal that protects national security. The order will also confirm no liability for any company that helped keep TikTok operational before my order.”
Trump emphasized the importance of the platform’s availability during his inauguration and beyond, saying, “Americans deserve to see our exciting Inauguration on Monday, as well as other events and conversations.”
As part of his proposal, Trump suggested the U.S. take a 50% ownership stake in a joint venture involving TikTok. “By doing this, we save TikTok, keep it in good hands, and allow it to stay operational. Without U.S. approval, there is no TikTok. With our approval, it is worth hundreds of billions of dollars—maybe trillions,” Trump said.
TikTok had ceased operations on Saturday night, removing its app from the Apple App Store along with other apps owned by its parent company, ByteDance.
Users attempting to access the app received a notification stating it was no longer available, though the message referenced Trump’s potential intervention, expressing optimism about reinstatement once he takes office.
Trump’s stance marks a significant shift from his earlier efforts to ban TikTok during his first term due to national security concerns tied to its Chinese ownership. While bipartisan calls in Congress for a ban persist, Trump now advocates keeping TikTok operational in the U.S.
Elon Musk, owner of X, voiced similar support for TikTok on free speech grounds. “I have been against a TikTok ban for a long time, because it goes against freedom of speech,” Musk posted. However, he noted the imbalance of TikTok operating in the U.S. while X is banned in China, calling for change.
I have been against a TikTok ban for a long time, because it goes against freedom of speech.
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 19, 2025
That said, the current situation where TikTok is allowed to operate in America, but 𝕏 is not allowed to operate in China is unbalanced.
Something needs to change. https://t.co/YVu2hkZEVZ
Under current law, Trump could grant a 90-day extension if ByteDance divests TikTok. While interest in acquiring the platform exists, ByteDance has resisted a sale.
TikTok’s future now hinges on Trump’s upcoming executive order and the potential resolution of national security concerns.