ABC News Daily
How Trump ended the TikTok blackout
Jan 20, 2025
Vittoria Elliott, a WIRED reporter specializing in platforms and power, discusses how Trump swiftly revived TikTok in the U.S. after a brief blackout. She highlights the national security fears that led to the platform's temporary shutdown and the political maneuvering that allowed it to return. The conversation dives into the implications of Chinese ownership, the legal complexities surrounding TikTok, and user reactions. Elliott also explores the evolving tech landscape and potential shifts in data privacy amidst increasing scrutiny of social media.
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Quick takeaways
- Donald Trump's swift actions to restore TikTok in the U.S. demonstrate his adeptness in navigating public sentiment and political dynamics.
- The TikTok controversy highlights broader concerns about data privacy and the absence of comprehensive legislation in the U.S., contrasting with regulations like Europe's GDPR.
Deep dives
The Political Landscape of TikTok's Ban
The ban on TikTok was initially suggested by Donald Trump in 2020 due to growing national security concerns linked to its Chinese ownership by ByteDance. In 2022, the Biden administration enacted a law that imposed a deadline for TikTok to divest or face a complete shutdown in the U.S. This decision was driven by fears that American user data could be accessed by the Chinese government, which made the platform's status contentious among U.S. lawmakers. The intricate political backdrop highlights how TikTok became a focal point in discussions about data privacy and national security.
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