“Heartbreak and Hope: TikTok Users Brace for Looming Ban”
The U.S. is edging closer to a potential TikTok ban as the Supreme Court upheld a law to block new downloads of the app starting Sunday, leaving millions of users and creators in limbo. Questions remain about how the ban will be enforced and what it will look like, particularly for influencers and small businesses that rely on the platform for income.
Comedian and content creator Terrell Wade, who has 1.5 million followers on TikTok, expects “two days of chaos” leading up to the deadline. “I really don’t know what to believe,” Wade said, echoing the uncertainty shared by many users.
The Supreme Court ruled that TikTok’s ties to its China-based parent company pose a national security risk, overriding First Amendment concerns. Unless the company is sold before January 19, the ban is set to take effect Sunday. The Biden administration has indicated it won’t enforce the law on its final day, leaving the decision to President-elect Donald Trump, who has vowed to keep TikTok accessible. However, his options remain unclear after Monday’s inauguration.
TikTok criticized the lack of clarity, warning it might have to shut down U.S. operations if the ban is enforced. While existing users will still have access, new downloads and updates would be blocked, rendering the app eventually unusable.
Content creators like Janette Ok, who relies on TikTok for brand deals and music promotion, are frustrated and disheartened. “It’s a beautiful app that’s brought people together and changed lives,” Ok said, calling the ban’s rationale “a little xenophobic.”
Small business owners also fear the impact. Jordan Smith, who uses TikTok to market her clothing brand for tall women, worries about losing her niche audience. Alejandro Flores-Munoz, who runs a Denver catering business, said the platform’s marketing reach was invaluable. “The Supreme Court decision today feels like a gut punch,” he said.
As the deadline approaches, creators and entrepreneurs are scrambling for alternatives while holding onto hope for a last-minute reprieve. For many, TikTok has been a lifeline, and the looming ban feels like losing a vital connection to their communities and customers.
Associated Press reporters Haleluya Hadero in South Bend, Indiana, and Mark Sherman in Washington contributed to this report.