Millions of American TikTok users faced a shocking 24-hour shutdown over the weekend after a law banning the app on national security grounds briefly took effect. The Chinese-owned platform restored service on Sunday following President-elect Donald Trump’s intervention to revive U.S. access. Trump, who returns to office Monday, announced plans to extend the timeline for implementing the ban, proposing a joint venture with 50% U.S. ownership to address security concerns. This marked a stark reversal from his 2020 push to ban TikTok, as he credited the app with boosting his popularity among young voters in the 2024 election.
The sudden blackout prompted mixed reactions from users. Some cringed at farewell messages posted before the app returned, while others expressed concerns about potential changes to TikTok’s ownership or algorithms. Content creators like Kelly Sites, a part-time influencer, compared the situation to Elon Musk’s acquisition of Twitter, fearing a shift in user experience. Meanwhile, auto-influencer Richard Fasulo and others who rely on TikTok for their livelihoods lamented a growing distrust in the government, as the app has become a critical source of income and opportunities for many.
Despite lingering uncertainties, relief swept through the TikTok community as the platform came back online. Influencers like Charlotte Warren, who faced potential losses of up to $60,000 in annual income, expressed gratitude for the reprieve, regardless of the political motives behind it. As users resume scrolling, questions remain about the app’s future under new ownership and its role in U.S.-China relations.
Pic Courtesy: google/ images are subject to copyright
