Aisha Malik

The Department of Justice has filed a motion with the U.S. appeals court, requesting that it reject ByteDance and TikTok’s emergency request to temporarily block the law that would ban TikTok in the U.S. unless the social network divests from Chinese ownership by January 19.

DOJ’s Argument

According to Reuters, the Justice Department argues that the court should not delay the matter, as "continued Chinese control of the TikTok application poses a continuing threat to national security." This statement highlights the concerns raised by the U.S. government regarding the potential risks associated with Chinese ownership and control over a popular social media platform.

ByteDance and TikTok’s Motion

ByteDance and TikTok filed their motion on Monday, seeking an emergency hold in order to give the Supreme Court a chance to review the case. The companies argued that delaying the matter would provide them with an opportunity to appeal the decision and also give the incoming administration time to determine its position.

Potential Lifeline for TikTok

There is speculation that President-elect Donald Trump may offer TikTok a lifeline, as he has vowed to prevent a ban on the social network. This statement from Trump suggests that there might be some flexibility in the U.S. government’s stance towards TikTok, at least until January 19.

Background and Context

The controversy surrounding TikTok began when the U.S. government raised concerns about the app’s potential security risks due to its Chinese ownership. The company has been facing pressure from various stakeholders, including lawmakers and regulators, to either sell or divest from Chinese control.

Key Points

• DOJ requests court to reject TikTok’s emergency motion
• ByteDance and TikTok seek temporary hold to give Supreme Court time to review case
• Companies argue that delay would provide incoming administration with opportunity to determine position
• President-elect Donald Trump vows to prevent ban on TikTok

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Topics

Apps, doj, Government & Policy, In Brief, TikTok, TikTok Ban

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