• President-elect Trump is considering options to preserve TikTok amidst legal challenges.
• Mike Waltz, Trump's adviser, stated the aim is to protect user data while keeping the platform accessible.
• The Supreme Court is deliberating a law that could force TikTok's sale or a ban due to national security concerns.
• Trump has shifted his stance from wanting to ban the app to actively supporting it during his 2024 campaign.

As looming legal challenges threaten the popular social media platform, President-elect Donald Trump, through his national security adviser nominee, Florida Rep. Mike Waltz, has indicated his intention to explore ways to preserve TikTok. During an interview, Waltz discussed potential executive orders that may suspend enforcement of a recent federal law requiring the app's owner, ByteDance, to divest their interests in TikTok or face a nationwide ban starting Sunday. This comes after the Supreme Court recently heard arguments on the law that many anticipate will be upheld, reflecting national security concerns tied to the app's Chinese connections (AP News).

Waltz described TikTok as a significant platform that connects millions of Americans, asserting its value especially in light of its role in Trump’s recent campaign efforts to attract younger voters. He remarked, "TikTok is a great platform that many Americans use, and has been great for his campaign." He also reassured that Trump's administration would take necessary steps to safeguard user data while considering alternative strategies to validate TikTok’s presence in the U.S. (The Hill).

Waltz emphasized Trump's reputation as a dealmaker, suggesting that the administration will work to find a viable pathway to keep TikTok operational in the U.S. This represents a significant turnaround from Trump's previous hardline stance aiming to ban the app, highlighting the platform's leverage during the current election cycle and its effectiveness in reaching younger demographics (Time, India Times).

Waltz affirmed, "He’s going to protect their data," signifying a shift in focus towards ensuring privacy while maintaining engagement with popular platforms.