The future of TikTok in the United States hangs in the balance, as US Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick issued a stark warning that the popular social media platform could be rendered inoperable if its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, does not agree to a transfer of ownership. Speaking on a CNBC program, Lutnick emphasized that TikTok must be divested from Chinese control, particularly given its presence on approximately 100 million American devices.
Lutnick articulated the administration’s stance, stating, “You can’t have Chinese control and have something on 100 million American phones. That’s just not okay.” This commentary reflects ongoing national security concerns surrounding the app, which has faced scrutiny from both sides of the political spectrum.
In a move that underscores the urgency of the situation, President Donald Trump recently extended the deadline for the sale of TikTok to a US entity for the third time. The administration has indicated that while ByteDance could maintain a minority stake in the platform, American ownership is essential. “Basically, Americans will have control over the technology and algorithm,” Lutnick stated, outlining the terms being discussed.
Interest in acquiring TikTok has been sparked by legislation passed in 2024, which mandates a ban on the app unless a domestic buyer is secured. This law gained traction amid bipartisan concerns that TikTok poses a significant national security risk. The US Supreme Court upheld this ban, reinforcing the administration’s position on the platform.
Despite previous attempts to ban TikTok during his first term, Trump has since shifted his approach. He joined the platform in 2024 and credited its youthful user base for contributing to his electoral success in the November 2024 presidential election. This transition reflects a complicated relationship with the platform, which has become a focal point in discussions on data privacy and international relations.
As TikTok navigates this precarious landscape, the stakes continue to rise. The potential for a shutdown poses significant implications not only for ByteDance but also for the millions of users who rely on the platform for social interaction, entertainment, and information. The outcome of discussions regarding ownership will likely define TikTok’s future in the US market and could set a precedent for how foreign-owned tech companies operate within the country.
