President-elect Donald Trump indicated in an interview with NBC News on Saturday that he might delay the impending ban on TikTok for 90 days once he assumes office on Monday, although he has not finalized his decision. Trump suggested that granting an extension for the Chinese-owned social media platform would be fitting, considering the bipartisan legislation from last year which the Supreme Court upheld this week.
He shared during the interview that considering a 90-day extension would be “certainly an option” and described it as something that “will most likely be done.” He emphasized the appropriateness of such a move, stating, “It’s appropriate. We have to look at it carefully. It’s a very big situation.” Trump added he would likely make an announcement on Monday if he decides to proceed with the extension.
CNN has sought comments from Trump’s transition team regarding this matter. Without this extension, TikTok faces the possibility of going offline as soon as Sunday. The law that passed last year includes a provision allowing the president to postpone the ban for 90 days, contingent on demonstrating substantial progress towards selling TikTok to a U.S.-based entity.
In the lead-up to the ban’s enforcement, TikTok CEO Shou Chew met with Trump at his Mar-a-Lago estate. Chew is also scheduled to attend Trump’s inauguration on Monday.