The U.S. Supreme Court has indicated its inclination to uphold a law requiring TikTok’s sale by its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, by January 19, citing national security concerns. During arguments in Washington, justices highlighted the potential risks of Chinese influence through TikTok, which boasts 170 million U.S. users.
Chief Justice John Roberts questioned TikTok’s lawyer about the company’s ties to the Chinese government, emphasizing the risk of intelligence work. Justice Brett Kavanaugh underscored concerns about data collection, calling it a significant national security issue.
The Biden administration defends the law as essential to prevent propaganda, manipulation, and data espionage by a foreign adversary. Critics, including TikTok and a group of content creators, argue that the law infringes on free speech and is based on unfounded fears.
If upheld, the law will require technology companies hosting TikTok, including Apple and Google, to cease support, leading to the app’s gradual performance degradation. ByteDance may revisit its refusal to sell TikTok if the ban becomes imminent.
President Joe Biden signed the legislation in April after bipartisan approval in Congress. Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump, set to be inaugurated on January 20, has proposed negotiating a settlement to resolve the issue.
The Supreme Court has fast-tracked the case, with a ruling expected before January 19. An interim order may temporarily address the law’s effective date while deliberations continue.
Stay updated with the latest developments by subscribing to our Daily Briefing.
