Fact Check: Trump Delays TikTok Sale Deadline for the Third Time
What We Know
Recently, former President Donald Trump confirmed a further delay in the enforcement of a law requiring the sale of TikTok, a popular video-sharing app owned by the Chinese company ByteDance. This marks the third time the deadline has been postponed. According to reports, Trump signed an executive order extending the deadline by 90 days, now requiring a deal to be reached by September 17, 2025 (BBC News). The law mandating the sale was enacted due to national security concerns over potential data access by the Chinese government, which TikTok has consistently denied (BBC News).
Analysis
The claim that Trump has delayed the TikTok sale deadline for the third time is substantiated by multiple credible sources. The BBC, a reputable news organization, reported that Trump’s latest executive order is part of a long-standing effort to secure a buyer for TikTok, which has faced scrutiny regarding its data privacy practices (source-1).
Critics, including Senate Select Committee on Intelligence Vice Chairman Mark Warner, have expressed concerns that these delays undermine the legislative intent and national security findings related to TikTok. Warner stated that "an executive order can't sidestep the law," highlighting the contentious nature of Trump's actions (source-1).
The context surrounding these delays is also significant. Trump initially sought to force a sale during his presidency but later indicated a change of heart, suggesting that TikTok's popularity among younger voters could be politically advantageous (source-2). This shift raises questions about the motivations behind the delays and whether they are genuinely aimed at ensuring user data safety or are politically motivated.
Conclusion
The claim that Trump has delayed the TikTok sale deadline for the third time is True. The evidence from reliable news sources confirms that Trump has indeed extended the deadline through an executive order, reflecting ongoing negotiations and political considerations surrounding the app's future in the U.S. The implications of these delays continue to stir debate regarding national security and the legislative process.
