Trump Says TikTok Deal Still Possible Amid China Tensions

President Donald Trump said Wednesday that a potential deal to spin off TikTok’s U.S. operations remains "on the table," despite recent delays and mounting political pressure. The short video app, used by over 170 million Americans, faces a looming ban unless China-based ByteDance divests its U.S. assets by June 19.

While Trump extended the deadline—originally set for January—critics argue he lacks the legal authority to do so. Senators Mark Warner and Ed Markey have voiced opposition, with Warner stating the proposed deal doesn't meet legal standards. Markey attempted to pass legislation to push the deadline to October but was blocked.

The proposed agreement would create a U.S.-based entity, majority-owned by American investors, to operate TikTok independently of Chinese control. However, finalizing the deal depends on approvals from both the White House and the Chinese government, with ongoing trade tensions further complicating negotiations.

Senate Intelligence Chair Tom Cotton warned that American investors must sever all ties with China if they want to acquire TikTok, emphasizing that Congress would not shield them from any liabilities related to the app’s past actions.

Despite these hurdles, sources close to ByteDance’s U.S. investors say discussions continue, with hopes of resolving outstanding issues before the deadline. Meanwhile, TikTok has yet to release an official statement.

Trump, now in his second term, has twice delayed enforcement of the ban. In January, the Justice Department informed Apple and Google it would not enforce the law, allowing the app to return to their platforms.

As the June 19 deadline approaches, the fate of TikTok in the U.S. remains uncertain, hinging on political maneuvering and international negotiations.