Trump says fate of TikTok should be in his hands when he returns to White House
President-elect Trump is asserting his authority to make the decision on whether TikTok can continue operating in the United States, citing national security and First Amendment concerns. In an amicus brief filed Friday, Trump argued that he should be the one to resolve the issue once he takes office on January 20, 2025.
The case revolves around the law that requires TikTok, owned by ByteDance, a Beijing-based company with ties to the Chinese Communist Party, to divest from foreign adversary control. Trump’s spokesman, Steven Cheung, stated that the President believes he should have the opportunity to save TikTok and protect American national security by extending the deadline that would lead to the app’s shutdown.
The brief emphasizes Trump’s unique position as the incoming President and his responsibility for national security and foreign policy. It highlights the delicate balance between free speech rights and national security concerns, stating that Trump is the right constitutional actor to address these issues through political means.
The document also underscores Trump’s commitment to upholding First Amendment rights, noting that his electoral victory in 2024 gave him a mandate to protect the free speech of all Americans, including the millions who use TikTok. As the elected representative of the entire nation, Trump is uniquely positioned to address these complex legal and policy issues.
As this story continues to develop, stay tuned for updates on the Supreme Court’s upcoming oral arguments on the TikTok case. For more information and the latest news, be sure to check back for further coverage.
Brooke Singman, a political correspondent and reporter for Fox News, Fox News Channel, and FOX Business, contributed to this article. Her insights and expertise provide valuable context to the ongoing debate surrounding TikTok and national security concerns.