As the U.S. edges closer to banning TikTok, the situation feels like déjà vu. Ironically, Donald Trump—preparing for a White House return—might benefit from the platform’s reach, but its removal would leave him dependent on U.S.-based social media. With January 19 as the critical date, TikTok faces a ban just before Trump’s possible inauguration.
More significantly, the TikTok controversy impacts the U.S. more than China. While its parent company ByteDance dominates China with Douyin (TikTok’s domestic version), the U.S. app is under scrutiny due to China’s 2017 National Intelligence Law. This law mandates Chinese companies to aid the government in intelligence operations—raising concerns over data dissemination, not just collection. TikTok’s algorithm holds immense power to influence public opinion, particularly in the U.S., making it a key player as political dynamics shift.
The spotlight on TikTok has also distracted from other Chinese tech giants like Huawei. Yet, the platform’s uncertain U.S. future remains a high-stakes story—one Beijing may be content to let unfold.
If you have TikTok videos you can’t bear to lose, now is the time to hit “Share” and “Save Video.” This saga is far from over.