TikTok’s CEO, Shou Chew, addressed users directly in a video posted by the company urging them to support the app against US lawmakers seeking a ban. President Biden signed a bill that could force TikTok to be sold to an American company, or face a potential ban. Many users are concerned about losing access to their favorite app. In response to these developments, Chew issued a rallying cry to users, promising to fight against a possible ban.
The foreign-aid bill passed by the US Senate and signed by President Biden has caused millions of Americans who use TikTok to worry about the app possibly being banned. Chew’s video has garnered over four million views and sparked a strong reaction from TikTok users who are not ready to say goodbye to the platform. Comments on the video showed support for Chew and appreciation for the sense of community and connection that TikTok has provided to its users.
Despite the outcry from users and Chew’s strong message, a ban on TikTok is not likely to happen immediately. Bytedance, the Chinese company that owns TikTok, has time to find a buyer for the app, with the process expected to take nine months to a year. If the bill requiring TikTok to be sold to an American company holds up in court, then a ban could become a possibility.