President-elect Donald Trump may be weighing an executive order to protect the popular social media platform TikTok from a looming nationwide ban, according to his transition team. This development comes as the Supreme Court deliberates on a federal law that could block the app’s availability in the United States.
Reports from The Washington Post on Wednesday suggested Trump’s potential intervention, a move that could halt enforcement if the court upholds the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, signed into law by President Biden.
When asked about the possibility, Florida Representative Mike Waltz, Trump’s nominee for national security adviser, hinted that an executive order is on the table.
“If the Supreme Court supports the ban, President Trump has made his position very clear,” Waltz told journalists. “TikTok is not just a platform—it’s a vital communication tool for millions of Americans. He’s committed to safeguarding user data while ensuring access remains. As a master dealmaker, he’ll create a pathway for a new agreement.”
Karoline Leavitt, spokesperson for the Trump-Vance transition team, reinforced the president-elect’s intent.
“President Trump has always expressed a desire to rescue TikTok. There’s no better dealmaker than Donald Trump,” Leavitt told Reporters, affirming his willingness to negotiate terms that protect U.S. interests while keeping the app accessible.
The controversy surrounding TikTok stems from its ties to the Chinese parent company, ByteDance. A bipartisan-backed law passed in April 2024 requires the company to divest from ByteDance within nine months or face removal from American app stores and hosting services.
In December, Trump’s legal team filed an amicus brief urging the Supreme Court to delay implementing the ban until after his inauguration. Oral arguments on the case began in January, with a decision expected soon.
Trump’s evolving stance on TikTok marks a shift from his previous administration, during which he sought to ban the app outright. However, he now acknowledges its strategic impact, particularly in connecting with younger voters during his victorious 2024 presidential campaign.
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The court’s ruling will decide if the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act is enforced, potentially escalating the debate over national security, digital freedom, and international trade relations.