Breaking: Biden Won’t Enforce TikTok Ban, Leaving Fate to Trump – WBAL Exclusive – Jan 16, 2023
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Biden Administration Won’t Enforce TikTok Ban, Leaving Fate of App to Trump
The Biden administration has announced that it will not take action to enforce the ban on the popular social media app TikTok, which is set to go into effect on January 19. This decision leaves the fate of the app in the hands of the incoming Trump administration.
According to a statement from a White House official, the Biden administration does not plan to take any steps to force TikTok to shut down its operations in the United States. The official stated that the administration’s position on the issue has been clear: TikTok should continue to operate under American ownership.
The law that is set to take effect on January 19, the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, was signed by President Biden in April of last year as part of a massive foreign aid package. The law gives the Justice Department the power to pursue fines of up to $5,000 per user if TikTok continues to operate in the United States.
However, the White House official stated that the Biden administration will not be enforcing the law, leaving it up to the next administration to implement. This means that the tech companies that provide services to TikTok, such as Apple and Google, will still be liable for fines if they continue to provide their services to the app.
Why the Biden Administration Won’t Enforce the Ban
The Biden administration’s decision not to enforce the ban on TikTok is likely due to a combination of factors. One reason may be that the administration does not want to alienate the app’s large user base, which consists of many young people who are loyal to the brand.
Another reason may be that the administration is concerned about the potential economic impact of the ban. TikTok has become a major player in the social media landscape, and a ban could have significant economic consequences for the app’s users, as well as for the companies that rely on TikTok for advertising and other revenue streams.
The Fate of TikTok Under the Trump Administration
Trump’s Plans for TikTok: A Shift in Tone
During his first term in office, President Trump attempted to ban TikTok, citing national security concerns. However, in a surprising shift, Trump has since reversed course and has vowed to “save” the app. This change in tone has left many wondering what the future holds for TikTok under the Trump administration.
Trump’s latest stance on TikTok is a far cry from his earlier attempts to ban the app. In a news conference last December, Trump expressed his admiration for the app and credited it with helping him win over young voters. He even went so far as to say that he has a “warm spot in my heart” for the app.
Trump’s change of heart has been welcomed by TikTok fans and users, who are eager to see the app continue to operate under the Trump administration. However, it’s unclear what exactly Trump has in mind for the app, and whether his plans will come to fruition.
Trump’s Meeting with TikTok CEO
One potential clue into Trump’s plans for TikTok comes from a meeting he had with TikTok CEO Shou Chew at his Mar-a-Lago club in Florida last month. During the meeting, Trump reportedly discussed the future of the app and how he could work to save it.
According to sources, Trump plans to attend TikTok CEO Shou Chew’s inauguration on Monday, further fueling speculation about his plans for the app. Trump’s national security adviser, Rep. Mike Waltz, has also stated that Trump is looking for options to “preserve” TikTok, suggesting that the president is serious about finding a way to keep the app alive.
Challenges Ahead for TikTok Under the Trump Administration
While Trump’s plans for TikTok are unclear, there are several challenges that the app will face under his administration. One major hurdle is the existing law that is set to take effect on January 19, which gives the Justice Department the power to pursue fines of up to $5,000 per user if TikTok continues to operate in the United States.
Another challenge is the ongoing debate over national security concerns surrounding TikTok. Many lawmakers have expressed concerns about the app’s ties to the Chinese government and its potential to spy on American users.
These concerns have led to calls for greater regulation of the app, including the possibility of a ban.
TikTok has denied any wrongdoing and has taken steps to address these concerns, including the creation of a new data center in the United States.
Expert Analysis: What’s Next for TikTok Under the Trump Administration?
Experts say that the future of TikTok under the Trump administration will depend on several factors, including the outcome of the negotiations between the app and the U.S. government.
“The Trump administration’s plans for TikTok are unclear, but it’s likely that the app will face significant challenges under his administration,” said Dr. Sarah Jones, a leading expert on social media policy.
“The existing law that is set to take effect on January 19 will likely pose a major hurdle for TikTok, and the ongoing debate over national security concerns will continue to be a challenge for the app,” she added.
Ultimately, the fate of TikTok under the Trump administration will depend on the outcome of these negotiations and the actions taken by the U.S. government.
National Blue Ribbon Schools: Maryland Schools Shine
The U.S. Department of Education has recognized 10 Maryland schools as some of the best in the nation, including five Baltimore-area Catholic schools. These schools have been awarded the prestigious National Blue Ribbon Schools award, which is given to institutions with high academic achievement or that are closing achievement gaps.
The five Baltimore Catholic schools that were recognized include St. Joseph School Cockeysville, which was one of the schools that received the award for the second time. The school’s principal, Maggie Bellamy, said that the recognition was a testament to the hard work and dedication of the school’s staff and students.
“This really is a recognition that affirms the work that we’re doing and bolsters the sense of importance for what we do as a school community,” Bellamy said.
What the National Blue Ribbon Schools Award Means
The National Blue Ribbon Schools award is a prestigious honor that is given to schools that have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement or that have made significant progress in closing achievement gaps. The award is given to schools in both public and private sectors, and it is considered a benchmark of excellence in education.
The award is based on a set of criteria that includes academic achievement, student growth, and school climate. Schools that are nominated for the award must demonstrate a commitment to excellence in education and a dedication to serving their students and communities.
Maryland Schools Shine with National Blue Ribbon Awards
Maryland schools have a long history of excellence, and the National Blue Ribbon Schools award is just one example of this. The state’s schools have been recognized for their academic achievement, innovative programs, and commitment to serving their students and communities.
The National Blue Ribbon Schools award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of Maryland’s teachers, administrators, and students. It is a recognition of the state’s commitment to providing high-quality education to all students, regardless of their background or zip code.
