President-elect Donald Trump has asked the US Supreme Court to block a law that requires TikTok to be sold or shut down by January 19. This deadline falls before he takes office. As a result, Trump requested a delay so he can address the matter once he becomes president.
Trump Opposes TikTok Ban
Trump’s brief stated, “President Trump opposes banning TikTok in the United States at this juncture.” He wants to resolve the issue through political means after taking office. However, he did not address the legal question the court will review. The justices will hear arguments next month.
Court to Decide on First Amendment Issues
The court will decide if banning TikTok violates the First Amendment. Trump’s brief mentioned his deal-making expertise. It said, “President Trump alone possesses the consummate deal-making expertise, the electoral mandate and the political will to negotiate a resolution.” He also acknowledged national security concerns.
Trump’s Social Media Expertise
The brief also highlighted Trump’s knowledge of social media. It noted, “President Trump is one of the most powerful, prolific and influential users of social media in history.” With 14.7 million followers on TikTok, he can assess its importance for free speech and political expression.
TikTok Argues Against Ban
TikTok filed its own brief, arguing that the law violates the First Amendment. It said banning the app would limit speech for 170 million American users. The brief stated, “The government has banned an extraordinary amount of speech; demands deference to unsubstantiated predictions a future risk will materialize.”
Biden Defends National Security Law
President Joe Biden’s administration defended the law. It argued that the law addresses real threats to national security posed by China. The law aims to protect sensitive data and prevent influence operations. Biden’s team said, “The law addresses the serious threats to national security.”
Users’ Rights in Danger
A separate brief, filed by TikTok users, recognized the competition with China. However, it argued that banning TikTok would be the wrong approach. The brief stated, “Nothing like the act here has ever been countenanced,” arguing that the action goes against American traditions.
The Supreme Court will hear the case on January 10. The court must resolve the issue before January 19.
