Trump to the Rescue: TikTok Restores Services in the U.S.
WASHINGTON — TikTok began its phased restoration of services on Sunday following President-elect Donald Trump’s announcement to revive the app’s access in the United States upon his return to office on Monday.
“Frankly, we have no choice. We have to save it,” Trump declared at a rally, emphasizing his administration’s intent to establish a joint venture that would ensure TikTok’s operations comply with U.S. security standards while serving its 170 million American users.
TikTok expressed gratitude in a message to its users: “As a result of President Trump’s efforts, TikTok is back in the U.S.,” marking a significant turnaround for the Chinese-owned app, which had been inaccessible since a law banning it on national security grounds took effect over the weekend.
Service Restoration Underway
While TikTok’s website has become partially accessible to U.S. users, its app remains unavailable for download on Apple and Google app stores. In a statement, TikTok thanked Trump for offering “clarity and assurance” to service providers, enabling the platform to gradually return without penalties and continue supporting over 7 million small businesses in the U.S.
This development comes amid heightened tensions in U.S.-China relations. Trump’s administration has signaled plans for tariffs on China, though he has expressed a willingness for dialogue with Chinese leadership.
A Controversial Ban and Reversal
TikTok’s sudden shutdown on Saturday prompted a surge in VPN searches as users scrambled to maintain access. Trump’s move to extend the ban’s enforcement and negotiate a deal marks a stark departure from his earlier attempts to ban the app outright during his first term.
In 2020, Trump raised concerns about potential misuse of U.S. user data by TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance. Now, he cites TikTok as a tool that helped him win over younger voters in the 2024 election, calling it “a unique platform for creativity and connection.”
Industry and Political Reactions
Trump’s decision to save TikTok has drawn mixed reactions. While TikTok executives and marketing firms breathed a sigh of relief, some Republican lawmakers criticized the move. Senators Tom Cotton and Pete Ricketts issued a statement asserting that TikTok’s return must comply with stringent divestiture laws to sever ties with its Chinese ownership.
Meanwhile, media speculation about potential buyers has intensified. Reports suggest interest from figures like Elon Musk and entities such as Perplexity AI, which proposed a merger to establish a new U.S.-based entity.
What’s Next for TikTok?
As TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew prepares to attend Trump’s inauguration, the app’s future hinges on negotiations to balance national security concerns with user demand. With TikTok’s global valuation estimated at $50 billion, the stakes are high for all parties involved.
For now, TikTok users await a full restoration of services while keeping an eye on how Trump’s administration navigates this digital and diplomatic tightrope.
