Will TikTok Go Dark? Lawmakers Push for a Lifeline Before Deadline

TikTok might be dancing its final steps in the U.S., or at least that's the vibe heading into January 19. This is the deadline set for China-based ByteDance to sell TikTok's U.S. assets or face a complete ban. But now, two Democratic lawmakers are urging Congress and President Biden to hit pause on the clock.


In a letter sent on Monday, Representatives Ro Khanna and another Democrat said banning TikTok would spell disaster for 170 million American users who rely on the app for more than just entertainment. For many, it's a platform for self-expression, small business growth, and connection. Khanna called for Biden—and even former President Trump—to support extending the deadline. After all, why shut down a platform with such far-reaching impacts without giving the issue more time and thought?

Adding to the tension, the Supreme Court weighed in last Friday on ByteDance's challenge to the looming ban. Noel Francisco, a lawyer for TikTok and ByteDance, didn't hold back: if the app is banned, it's not just a slight inconvenience. TikTok, a platform that many have built their livelihoods on, would effectively shut down. Millions could lose access to the app, their followers, and their income streams—seemingly overnight.

If no action is taken, new downloads of TikTok will be banned starting Sunday. Existing users might have temporary access, but services will degrade until the app essentially fizzles out.

The White House hasn't made any public comments on the matter yet, leaving millions of TikTok fans and creators in a state of uncertainty. For now, the app's future rests on whether Biden and lawmakers can agree on an extension—and maybe a little on whether TikTok's viral charm can survive its most significant political challenge yet.

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