TikTok and its parent company, ByteDance, are facing a crucial legal battle against the US Justice Department in Washington, DC. A three-judge panel from the US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia will hear arguments on whether TikTok should divest its US assets or face a nationwide ban by January 19, 2024.
The US government claims TikTok’s Chinese ownership poses a national security risk, potentially allowing access to American user data or manipulation of information by the Chinese government. TikTok and ByteDance argue the law is unconstitutional and a ban would disrupt millions of US users, violating free speech rights.
The case comes at a critical time during the 2024 presidential campaign, with candidates Donald Trump and Kamala Harris actively using TikTok. A ruling is expected by December 6, possibly allowing the US Supreme Court to review the case before the ban deadline.
President Joe Biden may extend the deadline if TikTok shows progress in selling its US operations, while Trump has indicated he may not support a full ban if re-elected. The outcome of the case will have significant implications for ByteDance and its global business.
