As TikTok faces a ban in the United States, a large number of Americans are moving to an alternative Chinese social media app, RedNote.&nbsp;
The people migrating to RedNote have been calling themselves "TikTok refugees". The app has now become the most downloaded app on Apple's US App Store.&nbsp;
The app, which means "Little Red Book", came to the top position on Apple's US App Store on Tuesday.
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The Supreme Court justices are due to rule on a law that states that TikTok will face a ban in the US unless it is sold by its Chinese parent company ByteDance by January 19.&nbsp;
TikTok has been repeatedly saying that it will not sell its US business. Its lawyers warned that a ban will violate free speech protections for the platform's 170 million users in the US.&nbsp;
RedNote opened its new users as the app saw 63,000 posts on the topic "TikTok refugee", where new users are taught how to navigate the app and how to use basic Chinese phrases.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-supreme-court-likely-to-uphold-tiktok-ban-amid-security-concerns-8612365" rel="dofollow">US Supreme Court likely to uphold TikTok ban amid security concerns</a>
<h2>What is RedNote?</h2>
RedNote, founded in 2013, has a Chinese name, Xiaohongshu, which translates to Little Red Book.&nbsp;
RedNote is a TikTok competitor and is widely used by young people in China, Taiwan, and other Mandarin-speaking populations.&nbsp;
The app has about 300 million monthly users and has an interface that looks like a combination of TikTok and Instagram.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-supreme-court-to-to-hear-tiktok-ban-case-8606305" rel="dofollow">US Supreme Court to to hear TikTok ban case</a>
As seen in TikTok, RedNote also has censorship when it comes to criticism of the Chinese government.
<h2>What will happen after TikTok ban?&nbsp;</h2>
If banned in the US, TikTok will not immediately disappear, however, it will require app stores to stop offering it, which could kill it over time.
Some of the social media users told the BBC that even if TikTok stays, they will still use RedNote.&nbsp;
"Even if TikTok does stay I will continue to use the platform I've created on RedNote," Tennessee tech worker Sydney Crawley told the BBC, adding that she got over 6,000 followers in a day of creating her RedNote account.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-urges-us-supreme-court-to-pause-tiktok-ban-ahead-of-january-inauguration-8571960" rel="dofollow">Trump urges US Supreme Court to pause TikTok ban ahead of inauguration</a>
"I will continue to try to build a following there and see what new connections, friendships, or opportunities it brings me."
(With inputs from agencies)

World, Trending: The people migrating to RedNote have been calling themselves "TikTok refugees" and the app has become the most downloaded app on Apple's US App Store. 

As TikTok faces a ban in the United States, a large number of Americans are moving to an alternative Chinese social media app, RedNote. The people migrating to RedNote have been calling themselves "TikTok refugees". The app has now become the most downloaded app on Apple's US App Store. The app, which means "Little Red Book", came to the top position on Apple's US App Store on Tuesday. Also read: China considers selling TikTok US to Elon Musk amid ban threat: Report The Supreme Court justices are due to rule on a law that states that TikTok will face a ban in the US unless it is sold by its Chinese parent company ByteDance by January 19. TikTok has been repeatedly saying that it will not sell its US business. Its lawyers warned that a ban will violate free speech protections for the platform's 170 million users in the US. RedNote opened its new users as the app saw 63,000 posts on the topic "TikTok refugee", where new users are taught how to navigate the app and how to use basic Chinese phrases. Also read: US Supreme Court likely to uphold TikTok ban amid security concerns What is RedNote? RedNote, founded in 2013, has a Chinese name, Xiaohongshu, which translates to Little Red Book. RedNote is a TikTok competitor and is widely used by young people in China, Taiwan, and other Mandarin-speaking populations. The app has about 300 million monthly users and has an interface that looks like a combination of TikTok and Instagram. Also read: US Supreme Court to to hear TikTok ban case As seen in TikTok, RedNote also has censorship when it comes to criticism of the Chinese government. What will happen after TikTok ban? If banned in the US, TikTok will not immediately disappear, however, it will require app stores to stop offering it, which could kill it over time. Some of the social media users told the BBC that even if TikTok stays, they will still use RedNote. "Even if TikTok does stay I will continue to use the platform I've created on RedNote," Tennessee tech worker Sydney Crawley told the BBC, adding that she got over 6,000 followers in a day of creating her RedNote account. Also read: Trump urges US Supreme Court to pause TikTok ban ahead of inauguration "I will continue to try to build a following there and see what new connections, friendships, or opportunities it brings me." (With inputs from agencies)

What is RedNote? Chinese social media app to which US TikTokers are migrating ahead of ban

Chinese officials are considering the option of selling TikTok's U.S. Operations to Elon Musk if the short-video app is unable to overcome a ban.
While Bytedance still prefers to fight the ban, the Chinese company is looking at other options.

China Discusses Sale Of Tiktok US To Musk As One Option | World Business Watch | WION

The Supreme Court seemed inclined on Friday to uphold a law that would force a sale or ban the popular short-video app TikTok in the United States by Jan. 19, with the justices focusing on the national security concerns about China that prompted the crackdown. During about 2-1/2 hours of arguments, the nine justices pressed lawyers representing TikTok, its Chinese parent company ByteDance, and app users about the risk of China's government exploiting the platform to spy on Americans and carry out covert influence operations while also probing free speech concerns. "Are we supposed to ignore the fact that the ultimate parent is, in fact, subject to doing intelligence work for the Chinese government?" conservative Chief Justice John Roberts asked Noel Francisco, a lawyer for TikTok and ByteDance.
The companies and users sued to block the law passed by Congress with strong bipartisan support last year and signed by outgoing Democratic President Joe Biden, whose administration is defending it. They appealed a lower court's ruling upholding the law and rejecting their argument that it violates the US Constitution's First Amendment protection against government abridgment of free speech. Some justices raised apprehensions about the law's impact on free speech, but their prevailing concern seemed centered on the national security implications of a social media platform with foreign owners that collects data from a domestic user base of 170 million Americans, about half the US population.
Conservative Justice Brett Kavanaugh asked Francisco about potential long-term risks of China gathering data on users, especially those who flocked to the app at a young age, and using "that information over time to develop spies, to turn people, to blackmail people&mdash;people who a generation from now will be working in the FBI or the CIA or the State Department.
"The Supreme Court's consideration of the case comes at a time of rising trade tensions between the world's two biggest economies. Republican Donald Trump, due to begin his second term as president on Jan. 20, opposes the ban.Trump on Dec. 27 urged the court to put a hold on the Jan. 19 deadline for divestiture to give his incoming administration "the opportunity to pursue a political resolution of the questions at issue in the case."Francisco called the app one of the most popular speech platforms for Americans and said it would essentially shut down on Jan. 19 without a divestiture.
Francisco said the real target of the law "is the speech itself&mdash;this fear that Americans, even if fully informed, could be persuaded by Chinese misinformation. That, however, is a decision that the First Amendment leaves to the people."Citing Trump's stance on the case, Francisco asked the justices to, at a minimum, put a temporary hold on the law, "which will allow you to carefully consider this momentous issue and, for the reasons explained by the president-elect, potentially moot the case."
Conservative Justice Samuel Alito later floated the possibility of the court issuing what is called an administrative stay that would temporarily freeze the law while the justices decide how to proceed.
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<h2>A COLD WAR HYPOTHETICAL</h2>
Liberal Justice Elena Kagan's questions underscored the court's competing concerns over national security and free speech. Referring to ByteDance, Kagan told Francisco that the law "is only targeted at this foreign corporation, which doesn't have First Amendment rights."But later Kagan grilled US Solicitor General Elizabeth Prelogar, arguing for Biden's administration, with a Cold War-inspired hypothetical question about whether Congress could have forced the American Communist Party to divorce itself from the Soviet Union in the 1950s."
Content manipulation is a content-based rationale: we think that this foreign government is going to manipulate content in a way ... that concerns us and may very well affect our national security interests," Kagan said. "That's exactly what they thought about Communist Party speech in the 1950s, which was being scripted in large part by international organizations or directly by the Soviet Union."Francisco told Kavanaugh that on Jan. 19 "at least as I understand it, we (TikTok) go dark. Essentially, the platform shuts down unless there's a divestiture, unless President Trump exercises his authority to extend it." But Trump could not do that on Jan. 19 because he does not take office until the following day, Francisco said.
"It is possible that come Jan. 20th, 21st or 22nd, we might be in a different world," Francisco added.Responding to conservative Justice Amy Coney Barrett, Francisco said it could take "many years" for ByteDance to divest TikTok.Francisco presented the hypothetical situation of the Chinese government taking hostage the children of Washington Post owner Jeff Bezos to force him and his newspaper to publish "whatever they wanted on the front page of the Post, so China effectively has total control.""I still don't think that Congress could come in and tell Bezos, 'Either sell the Post, or shut it down,' because that would violate Bezos' rights and the Washington Post's rights," Francisco said.
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<h2>'GEOPOLITICAL GOALS'</h2>
Prelogar said Chinese government control of TikTok poses a grave threat to American national security. TikTok's immense data set on its American users and their non-user contacts gives China a powerful tool for harassment, recruitment and espionage, Prelogar said, and its government "could weaponize TikTok at any time to harm the United States."Prelogar said the First Amendment does not bar Congress from acting to protect Americans and their data. Prelogar also cited a "long tradition" of barring foreign control of U.S. communication channels and other critical infrastructure.
"The national security harm arises from the very fact of a foreign adversary's capacity to secretly manipulate the platform to advance its geopolitical goals in whatever form that kind of covert operation might take," Prelogar said.Asked by conservative Justice Clarence Thomas to identify TikTok's speech at issue in the case, Francisco cited TikTok's powerful algorithm, which feeds individual users short videos tailored to their liking."What the act does is it says TikTok cannot do that unless ByteDance executes a qualified divestiture," Francisco said. "That's a direct burden on TikTok's speech."
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

World: The Supreme Court is reviewing the case amid US-China trade tensions. President-elect Trump, starting his second term on January 20, opposes the ban and urged a delay.

The Supreme Court seemed inclined on Friday to uphold a law that would force a sale or ban the popular short-video app TikTok in the United States by Jan. 19, with the justices focusing on the national security concerns about China that prompted the crackdown. During about 2-1/2 hours of arguments, the nine justices pressed lawyers representing TikTok, its Chinese parent company ByteDance, and app users about the risk of China's government exploiting the platform to spy on Americans and carry out covert influence operations while also probing free speech concerns. "Are we supposed to ignore the fact that the ultimate parent is, in fact, subject to doing intelligence work for the Chinese government?" conservative Chief Justice John Roberts asked Noel Francisco, a lawyer for TikTok and ByteDance. The companies and users sued to block the law passed by Congress with strong bipartisan support last year and signed by outgoing Democratic President Joe Biden, whose administration is defending it. They appealed a lower court's ruling upholding the law and rejecting their argument that it violates the US Constitution's First Amendment protection against government abridgment of free speech. Some justices raised apprehensions about the law's impact on free speech, but their prevailing concern seemed centered on the national security implications of a social media platform with foreign owners that collects data from a domestic user base of 170 million Americans, about half the US population. Conservative Justice Brett Kavanaugh asked Francisco about potential long-term risks of China gathering data on users, especially those who flocked to the app at a young age, and using "that information over time to develop spies, to turn people, to blackmail people—people who a generation from now will be working in the FBI or the CIA or the State Department. "The Supreme Court's consideration of the case comes at a time of rising trade tensions between the world's two biggest economies. Republican Donald Trump, due to begin his second term as president on Jan. 20, opposes the ban.Trump on Dec. 27 urged the court to put a hold on the Jan. 19 deadline for divestiture to give his incoming administration "the opportunity to pursue a political resolution of the questions at issue in the case."Francisco called the app one of the most popular speech platforms for Americans and said it would essentially shut down on Jan. 19 without a divestiture. Francisco said the real target of the law "is the speech itself—this fear that Americans, even if fully informed, could be persuaded by Chinese misinformation. That, however, is a decision that the First Amendment leaves to the people."Citing Trump's stance on the case, Francisco asked the justices to, at a minimum, put a temporary hold on the law, "which will allow you to carefully consider this momentous issue and, for the reasons explained by the president-elect, potentially moot the case." Conservative Justice Samuel Alito later floated the possibility of the court issuing what is called an administrative stay that would temporarily freeze the law while the justices decide how to proceed. Also Read: US Supreme Court to to hear TikTok ban case A COLD WAR HYPOTHETICAL Liberal Justice Elena Kagan's questions underscored the court's competing concerns over national security and free speech. Referring to ByteDance, Kagan told Francisco that the law "is only targeted at this foreign corporation, which doesn't have First Amendment rights."But later Kagan grilled US Solicitor General Elizabeth Prelogar, arguing for Biden's administration, with a Cold War-inspired hypothetical question about whether Congress could have forced the American Communist Party to divorce itself from the Soviet Union in the 1950s." Content manipulation is a content-based rationale: we think that this foreign government is going to manipulate content in a way ... that concerns us and may very well affect our national security interests," Kagan said. "That's exactly what they thought about Communist Party speech in the 1950s, which was being scripted in large part by international organizations or directly by the Soviet Union."Francisco told Kavanaugh that on Jan. 19 "at least as I understand it, we (TikTok) go dark. Essentially, the platform shuts down unless there's a divestiture, unless President Trump exercises his authority to extend it." But Trump could not do that on Jan. 19 because he does not take office until the following day, Francisco said. "It is possible that come Jan. 20th, 21st or 22nd, we might be in a different world," Francisco added.Responding to conservative Justice Amy Coney Barrett, Francisco said it could take "many years" for ByteDance to divest TikTok.Francisco presented the hypothetical situation of the Chinese government taking hostage the children of Washington Post owner Jeff Bezos to force him and his newspaper to publish "whatever they wanted on the front page of the Post, so China effectively has total control.""I still don't think that Congress could come in and tell Bezos, 'Either sell the Post, or shut it down,' because that would violate Bezos' rights and the Washington Post's rights," Francisco said. Also Read: Khaby Lame becomes most-followed Tik Tok video creator 'GEOPOLITICAL GOALS' Prelogar said Chinese government control of TikTok poses a grave threat to American national security. TikTok's immense data set on its American users and their non-user contacts gives China a powerful tool for harassment, recruitment and espionage, Prelogar said, and its government "could weaponize TikTok at any time to harm the United States."Prelogar said the First Amendment does not bar Congress from acting to protect Americans and their data. Prelogar also cited a "long tradition" of barring foreign control of U.S. communication channels and other critical infrastructure. "The national security harm arises from the very fact of a foreign adversary's capacity to secretly manipulate the platform to advance its geopolitical goals in whatever form that kind of covert operation might take," Prelogar said.Asked by conservative Justice Clarence Thomas to identify TikTok's speech at issue in the case, Francisco cited TikTok's powerful algorithm, which feeds individual users short videos tailored to their liking."What the act does is it says TikTok cannot do that unless ByteDance executes a qualified divestiture," Francisco said. "That's a direct burden on TikTok's speech." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

US Supreme Court likely to uphold TikTok ban amid security concerns

The Supreme Court appeared likely to upload a law that would effectively ban TikTok in the United States. Watch this report for more details!

US Supreme Court Signals It Might Ban Tiktok App

The US Supreme Court is to hear TikTok's appeal on Friday of a law that would force its Chinese owner to sell the wildly popular online video-sharing platform or shut it down.
The top court is holding oral arguments in the case nine days before TikTok faces a ban unless ByteDance divests from the popular app.
Signed by President Joe Biden in April, the law would block TikTok from US app stores and web hosting services unless ByteDance sells its stake by January 19.
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The US government alleges TikTok allows Beijing to collect data and spy on users and is a conduit to spread propaganda. China and ByteDance strongly deny the claims.
TikTok is arguing that the law -- the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act -- violates its First Amendment rights.
&ldquo;We believe the Court will find the TikTok ban unconstitutional so the over 170 million Americans on our platform can continue to exercise their free speech rights,&rdquo; a TikTok spokesman said.
In a filing with the Supreme Court, TikTok said, &ldquo;Congress has enacted a massive and unprecedented speech restriction&rdquo; that would &ldquo;shutter one of America's most popular speech platforms.&rdquo;
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&ldquo;This, in turn, will silence the speech of Applicants and the many Americans who use the platform to communicate about politics, commerce, arts, and other matters of public concern,&rdquo; it added.
The potential ban could strain US-China relations just as Donald Trump prepares to be sworn in as president on January 20.
Trump, who has 14.7 million followers on TikTok, has emerged as an unlikely ally of the platform in a reversal from his first term, when the Republican leader tried to ban the app, citing national security concerns.
Trump's lawyer, John Sauer, filed a brief with the Supreme Court last month asking it to pause the law.
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In the amicus curiae -- or &ldquo;friend of the court&rdquo; -- brief, Sauer made it clear the president-elect does not take a position on the legal merits of the current case.
&ldquo;Instead, he respectfully requests that the court consider staying the act's deadline for divestment of January 19, 2025... thus permitting President Trump's incoming Administration the opportunity to pursue a political resolution of the questions at issue in the case,&rdquo; Sauer said.
<h2>'You need competition'</h2>
The president-elect met with TikTok chief executive Shou Zi Chew at his Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida in December.
Trump told Bloomberg recently he had changed his mind about the app.
&ldquo;Now (that) I'm thinking about it, I'm for TikTok, because you need competition,&rdquo; he said.
A coalition of free speech groups -- including the influential American Civil Liberties Union -- filed a separate brief with the Supreme Court opposing the law, citing censorship concerns.
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&ldquo;Such a ban is unprecedented in our country and, if it goes into effect, will cause a far-reaching disruption in Americans' ability to engage with the content and audiences of their choice online,&rdquo; they said.
In an 11th-hour development on Thursday, US billionaire Frank McCourt, founder of the non-profit Project Liberty, announced that he had put together a consortium to acquire TikTok's US assets from ByteDance.
&ldquo;We've put forward a proposal to ByteDance,&rdquo; McCourt said in a statement. &ldquo;We look forward to working with ByteDance, President-elect Trump, and the incoming administration to get this deal done.&rdquo;
AFP, among more than a dozen other fact-checking organizations, is paid by TikTok in several countries to verify videos that potentially contain false information.

The US Supreme Court is to hear TikTok's appeal on Friday of a law that would force its Chinese owner to sell the wildly popular online video-sharing platform or shut it down.

The US Supreme Court is to hear TikTok's appeal on Friday of a law that would force its Chinese owner to sell the wildly popular online video-sharing platform or shut it down. The top court is holding oral arguments in the case nine days before TikTok faces a ban unless ByteDance divests from the popular app. Signed by President Joe Biden in April, the law would block TikTok from US app stores and web hosting services unless ByteDance sells its stake by January 19. Also read | US Supreme Court rejects Trump's Bid to delay sentencing in hush money case; sentencing set for Friday The US government alleges TikTok allows Beijing to collect data and spy on users and is a conduit to spread propaganda. China and ByteDance strongly deny the claims. TikTok is arguing that the law -- the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act -- violates its First Amendment rights. “We believe the Court will find the TikTok ban unconstitutional so the over 170 million Americans on our platform can continue to exercise their free speech rights,” a TikTok spokesman said. In a filing with the Supreme Court, TikTok said, “Congress has enacted a massive and unprecedented speech restriction” that would “shutter one of America's most popular speech platforms.” Also read | Biden pledges federal aid as National Guard called in to battle 'nightmare' LA wildfires “This, in turn, will silence the speech of Applicants and the many Americans who use the platform to communicate about politics, commerce, arts, and other matters of public concern,” it added. The potential ban could strain US-China relations just as Donald Trump prepares to be sworn in as president on January 20. Trump, who has 14.7 million followers on TikTok, has emerged as an unlikely ally of the platform in a reversal from his first term, when the Republican leader tried to ban the app, citing national security concerns. Trump's lawyer, John Sauer, filed a brief with the Supreme Court last month asking it to pause the law. Also read | Big Tech bets big on Trump: Google donates $1mn to US President-elect’s inauguration fund In the amicus curiae -- or “friend of the court” -- brief, Sauer made it clear the president-elect does not take a position on the legal merits of the current case. “Instead, he respectfully requests that the court consider staying the act's deadline for divestment of January 19, 2025... thus permitting President Trump's incoming Administration the opportunity to pursue a political resolution of the questions at issue in the case,” Sauer said. 'You need competition' The president-elect met with TikTok chief executive Shou Zi Chew at his Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida in December. Trump told Bloomberg recently he had changed his mind about the app. “Now (that) I'm thinking about it, I'm for TikTok, because you need competition,” he said. A coalition of free speech groups -- including the influential American Civil Liberties Union -- filed a separate brief with the Supreme Court opposing the law, citing censorship concerns. Also read | We have a perfect storm...: Indian-origin Canadian lawmaker Chandra Arya joins PM race “Such a ban is unprecedented in our country and, if it goes into effect, will cause a far-reaching disruption in Americans' ability to engage with the content and audiences of their choice online,” they said. In an 11th-hour development on Thursday, US billionaire Frank McCourt, founder of the non-profit Project Liberty, announced that he had put together a consortium to acquire TikTok's US assets from ByteDance. “We've put forward a proposal to ByteDance,” McCourt said in a statement. “We look forward to working with ByteDance, President-elect Trump, and the incoming administration to get this deal done.” AFP, among more than a dozen other fact-checking organizations, is paid by TikTok in several countries to verify videos that potentially contain false information.

US Supreme Court to  to hear TikTok ban case

US President-elect Donald Trump on Friday (Dec 27) urged the Supreme Court to pause the looming TikTok ban, which is set to take effect the day before his January 20 inauguration unless ByteDance, the popular short video app's Chinese owner, divests it. &nbsp;
In a legal brief, Trump's team argued for "more breathing space".
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"In light of the novelty and difficulty of this case, the court should consider staying the statutory deadline to grant more breathing space to address these issues," Trump's legal team wrote, urging the court to give him "the opportunity to pursue a political resolution."
In his filing, Trump's attorney emphasised that the president-elect is not taking a position on the case's legal merits but is seeking flexibility for his administration to address the matter politically. &nbsp;
"President Trump takes no position on the underlying merits of this dispute," wrote John Sauer in the amicus curiae brief.
"Instead, he respectfully requests that the court consider staying the act's deadline for divestment of January 19, 2025, while it considers the merits of this case, thus permitting President Trump's incoming Administration the opportunity to pursue a political resolution of the questions at issue in the case."
<h2>Donald Trump's changing TikTok stance</h2>
Trump had previously attempted to ban TikTok on national security grounds during his first term.&nbsp;
At the time, he cited fears of data misuse and propaganda from the Chinese government. These concerns, echoed by Democrats, led his successor, Joe Biden, to sign a law banning the app.
However, Trump recently shifted his perspective and has since softened his stance.&nbsp;
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Last week, he expressed newfound support for the app, citing the need for competition against platforms like Facebook and Instagram, both owned by Meta.
"Now (that) I'm thinking about it. I'm for TikTok, because you need competition."
"If you don't have TikTok, you have Facebook and Instagram -- and that's, you know, that's Zuckerberg," he told Bloomberg. &nbsp;&nbsp; The shift follows a meeting between Trump and TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew at Mar-a-Lago, where Trump hinted at re-evaluating the app's potential ban. &nbsp;
<h2>TikTok's legal stand</h2>
A law, set to take effect on January 19, mandates TikTok's sale to a non-Chinese owner or a full ban in the US. After the deadline, US-based app stores and internet providers could face significant fines for hosting TikTok unless it complies with the forced sale.&nbsp;
TikTok has challenged the law in court, arguing that the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act violates its First Amendment rights. Last week, the Supreme Court agreed to hear the app's appeal, with oral arguments set for January 10, leaving little time for resolution before the deadline. &nbsp;
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Free speech groups, including the ACLU, have also filed briefs opposing the ban, warning of potential censorship and disruption to users&rsquo; rights.
"Such a ban is unprecedented in our country and, if it goes into effect, will cause a far-reaching disruption in Americans' ability to engage with the content and audiences of their choice online," said rights group ACLU in its filing.
(With inputs from agencies)

US President-elect Donald Trump's legal team argues for a stay on the TikTok divestment deadline, highlighting the case's complexities and the need for the new administration's involvement.

US President-elect Donald Trump on Friday (Dec 27) urged the Supreme Court to pause the looming TikTok ban, which is set to take effect the day before his January 20 inauguration unless ByteDance, the popular short video app's Chinese owner, divests it. In a legal brief, Trump's team argued for "more breathing space". Also read | Can Trump overturn Biden's pardons? President-elect vows to pursue death penalty 'vigorously' "In light of the novelty and difficulty of this case, the court should consider staying the statutory deadline to grant more breathing space to address these issues," Trump's legal team wrote, urging the court to give him "the opportunity to pursue a political resolution." In his filing, Trump's attorney emphasised that the president-elect is not taking a position on the case's legal merits but is seeking flexibility for his administration to address the matter politically. "President Trump takes no position on the underlying merits of this dispute," wrote John Sauer in the amicus curiae brief. "Instead, he respectfully requests that the court consider staying the act's deadline for divestment of January 19, 2025, while it considers the merits of this case, thus permitting President Trump's incoming Administration the opportunity to pursue a political resolution of the questions at issue in the case." Donald Trump's changing TikTok stance Trump had previously attempted to ban TikTok on national security grounds during his first term. At the time, he cited fears of data misuse and propaganda from the Chinese government. These concerns, echoed by Democrats, led his successor, Joe Biden, to sign a law banning the app. However, Trump recently shifted his perspective and has since softened his stance. Also read | TikTok ban in America: US Federal Court rejects appeal to temporarily block ban Last week, he expressed newfound support for the app, citing the need for competition against platforms like Facebook and Instagram, both owned by Meta. "Now (that) I'm thinking about it. I'm for TikTok, because you need competition." "If you don't have TikTok, you have Facebook and Instagram -- and that's, you know, that's Zuckerberg," he told Bloomberg. The shift follows a meeting between Trump and TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew at Mar-a-Lago, where Trump hinted at re-evaluating the app's potential ban. TikTok's legal stand A law, set to take effect on January 19, mandates TikTok's sale to a non-Chinese owner or a full ban in the US. After the deadline, US-based app stores and internet providers could face significant fines for hosting TikTok unless it complies with the forced sale. TikTok has challenged the law in court, arguing that the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act violates its First Amendment rights. Last week, the Supreme Court agreed to hear the app's appeal, with oral arguments set for January 10, leaving little time for resolution before the deadline. Also read | Who are the three death row inmates Joe Biden didn't pardon? Here's all you need to know Free speech groups, including the ACLU, have also filed briefs opposing the ban, warning of potential censorship and disruption to users’ rights. "Such a ban is unprecedented in our country and, if it goes into effect, will cause a far-reaching disruption in Americans' ability to engage with the content and audiences of their choice online," said rights group ACLU in its filing. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump urges US Supreme Court to pause TikTok ban ahead of inauguration

Albania has announced a one-year ban on TikTok following the tragic killing of a teenager. The government has blamed TikTok, along with other social media platforms, for encouraging violence among youth, particularly within schools. Watch in for more details!



Albania Bans TikTok For A Year After School Stabbing

Albania To Ban TikTok For 1 Year After Teenager's Murder

US President-elect Donald Trump Sunday (Dec 22) indicated that he may allow embattled TikTok, the&nbsp;Chinese video-sharing social networking service, to continue operations in the US. While speaking to a crowd in Phoenix, Arizona; the incoming US president highlighted how his campaign got a massive boost on the platform ahead of the Nov 5 elections. Addressing his supporters, Trump said, “They brought me a chart, and it was a record, and it was so beautiful to see, and as I looked at it, I said, ‘Maybe we gotta keep this sucker around for a little while.’”

It’s among major signals by the Trump team that the incoming administration may oppose a potential ban on TikTok, which is facing increased pressure due to national security concerns. Earlier this year, the US Senate okayed legislation requiring ByteDance, the parent company, to divest the app. The China-owned company has appealed the law in the US Supreme Court.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjGotPZgb2KAxXmR2wGHUcXENcQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lara-trump-daughter-in-law-of-donald-trump-withdraws-bid-for-us-senate-seat-786048" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/lara-trump-daughter-in-law-of-donald-trump-withdraws-bid-for-us-senate-seat-786048&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjGotPZgb2KAxXmR2wGHUcXENcQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Lara Trump, daughter-in-law of Donald Trump, withdraws bid for US senate seat</a>

Now, TikTok’s fate depends on how forcefully the Trump administration would pursue the case. Earlier this week, Trump held a meeting with TikTok CEO and said he had a “warm spot” for the platform due to his campaign success. However, the Justice Department continues to argue that Chinese ownership of the app continues to be a security threat to the US government as well as to people.

There are concerns that Beijing may force ByteDance to hand over TikTok users’ data or pressure the app to modify its algorithm, presenting content that could manipulate public opinion.

Watch:&nbsp;Donald Trump Policies Stir Global Volatility, Powell Warns Of Inflation Risks

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On the other hand, TikTok says it has invested heavily to keep the data of its American users safe from outside influence and manipulation. It argues that the potential ban would amount to censorship that violates the free speech rights given to Americans under the Constitution’s First Amendment.

(With inputs from agencies)

US President-elect Donald Trump Sunday (Dec 22) indicated that he may allow embattled TikTok, the Chinese video-sharing social networking service, to continue operations in the US.

US President-elect Donald Trump Sunday (Dec 22) indicated that he may allow embattled TikTok, the Chinese video-sharing social networking service, to continue operations in the US. While speaking to a crowd in Phoenix, Arizona; the incoming US president highlighted how his campaign got a massive boost on the platform ahead of the Nov 5 elections. Addressing his supporters, Trump said, “They brought me a chart, and it was a record, and it was so beautiful to see, and as I looked at it, I said, ‘Maybe we gotta keep this sucker around for a little while.’” It’s among major signals by the Trump team that the incoming administration may oppose a potential ban on TikTok, which is facing increased pressure due to national security concerns. Earlier this year, the US Senate okayed legislation requiring ByteDance, the parent company, to divest the app. The China-owned company has appealed the law in the US Supreme Court. Also read: Lara Trump, daughter-in-law of Donald Trump, withdraws bid for US senate seat Now, TikTok’s fate depends on how forcefully the Trump administration would pursue the case. Earlier this week, Trump held a meeting with TikTok CEO and said he had a “warm spot” for the platform due to his campaign success. However, the Justice Department continues to argue that Chinese ownership of the app continues to be a security threat to the US government as well as to people. There are concerns that Beijing may force ByteDance to hand over TikTok users’ data or pressure the app to modify its algorithm, presenting content that could manipulate public opinion. Watch: Donald Trump Policies Stir Global Volatility, Powell Warns Of Inflation Risks × On the other hand, TikTok says it has invested heavily to keep the data of its American users safe from outside influence and manipulation. It argues that the potential ban would amount to censorship that violates the free speech rights given to Americans under the Constitution’s First Amendment. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Gotta keep this s**ker for a little while,’ Trump signals averting ban on TikTok

Arizona, US
US President-elect Donald Trump Sunday (Dec 22) indicated that he may allow embattled TikTok, the Chinese video-sharing social networking service, to continue operations in the US. While speaking to a crowd in Phoenix, Arizona; the incoming US president highlighted how his campaign got a massive boost on the platform ahead of the Nov 5 elections. Addressing his supporters, Trump said, “They brought me a chart, and it was a record, and it was so beautiful to see, and as I looked at it, I said, ‘Maybe we gotta keep this sucker around for a little while.’”
It’s among major signals by the Trump team that the incoming administration may oppose a potential ban on TikTok, which is facing increased pressure due to national security concerns. Earlier this year, the US Senate okayed legislation requiring ByteDance, the parent company, to divest the app. The China-owned company has appealed the law in the US Supreme Court.
Also read: <a data-ved="2ahUKEwjGotPZgb2KAxXmR2wGHUcXENcQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lara-trump-daughter-in-law-of-donald-trump-withdraws-bid-for-us-senate-seat-786048" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/lara-trump-daughter-in-law-of-donald-trump-withdraws-bid-for-us-senate-seat-786048&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjGotPZgb2KAxXmR2wGHUcXENcQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Lara Trump, daughter-in-law of Donald Trump, withdraws bid for US senate seat</a>
Now, TikTok’s fate depends on how forcefully the Trump administration would pursue the case. Earlier this week, Trump held a meeting with TikTok CEO and said he had a “warm spot” for the platform due to his campaign success. However, the Justice Department continues to argue that Chinese ownership of the app continues to be a security threat to the US government as well as to people.
There are concerns that Beijing may force ByteDance to hand over TikTok users’ data or pressure the app to modify its algorithm, presenting content that could manipulate public opinion.
Watch: Donald Trump Policies Stir Global Volatility, Powell Warns Of Inflation Risks
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On the other hand, TikTok says it has invested heavily to keep the data of its American users safe from outside influence and manipulation. It argues that the potential ban would amount to censorship that violates the free speech rights given to Americans under the Constitution’s First Amendment.
(With inputs from agencies)

It’s among major signals by the Trump team that the incoming administration may oppose a potential ban on TikTok, which is facing increased pressure due to national security concerns.



Arizona, US US President-elect Donald Trump Sunday (Dec 22) indicated that he may allow embattled TikTok, the Chinese video-sharing social networking service, to continue operations in the US. While speaking to a crowd in Phoenix, Arizona; the incoming US president highlighted how his campaign got a massive boost on the platform ahead of the Nov 5 elections. Addressing his supporters, Trump said, “They brought me a chart, and it was a record, and it was so beautiful to see, and as I looked at it, I said, ‘Maybe we gotta keep this sucker around for a little while.’” It’s among major signals by the Trump team that the incoming administration may oppose a potential ban on TikTok, which is facing increased pressure due to national security concerns. Earlier this year, the US Senate okayed legislation requiring ByteDance, the parent company, to divest the app. The China-owned company has appealed the law in the US Supreme Court. Also read: Lara Trump, daughter-in-law of Donald Trump, withdraws bid for US senate seat Now, TikTok’s fate depends on how forcefully the Trump administration would pursue the case. Earlier this week, Trump held a meeting with TikTok CEO and said he had a “warm spot” for the platform due to his campaign success. However, the Justice Department continues to argue that Chinese ownership of the app continues to be a security threat to the US government as well as to people. There are concerns that Beijing may force ByteDance to hand over TikTok users’ data or pressure the app to modify its algorithm, presenting content that could manipulate public opinion. Watch: Donald Trump Policies Stir Global Volatility, Powell Warns Of Inflation Risks × On the other hand, TikTok says it has invested heavily to keep the data of its American users safe from outside influence and manipulation. It argues that the potential ban would amount to censorship that violates the free speech rights given to Americans under the Constitution’s First Amendment. (With inputs from agencies)

Albania has announced a one-year ban on TikTok following the tragic killing of a teenager. The government has blamed TikTok, along with other social media platforms, for encouraging violence among youth, particularly within schools. Watch in for more details!

Tirana, Albania
<meta content="uuid75xe2CqeXWSK" name="uuid"/>
Albania on Saturday (December 21) announced a one-year ban on TikTok, the popular short video app, following the killing of a teenager last month that raised fears over the influence of social media on children.
The ban, part of a broader plan to make schools safer, will come into effect early next year, Prime Minister Edi Rama said after meeting with parents' groups and teachers from across the country.
"For one year, we'll be completely shutting it down for everyone. There will be no TikTok in Albania," Rama said.
TikTok did not immediately respond to a request for comment outside normal business hours.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-senate-passes-last-minute-bill-to-avert-government-shutdown-biden-set-to-sign-785874" target="_blank">Outgoing US President Biden signs US funding bill to avert government shutdown</a>
Several European countries including France, Germany and Belgium have enforced restrictions on social media use for children. In one of the world's toughest regulations targeting Big Tech, Australia approved in November a complete social media ban for children under 16.
Rama has blamed social media, and TikTok in particular, for fuelling violence among youth in and outside school.
His government's decision comes after a 14-year-old schoolboy was stabbed to death in November by a fellow pupil. Local media had reported that the incident followed arguments between the two boys on social media. Videos had also emerged on TikTok of minors supporting the killing.
"The problem today is not our children, the problem today is us, the problem today is our society, the problem today is TikTok and all the others that are taking our children hostage," Rama said.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The ban, part of a broader plan to make schools safer, will come into effect early next year, Prime Minister Edi Rama said after meeting with parents' groups and teachers from across the country.



Tirana, Albania Albania on Saturday (December 21) announced a one-year ban on TikTok, the popular short video app, following the killing of a teenager last month that raised fears over the influence of social media on children. The ban, part of a broader plan to make schools safer, will come into effect early next year, Prime Minister Edi Rama said after meeting with parents' groups and teachers from across the country. "For one year, we'll be completely shutting it down for everyone. There will be no TikTok in Albania," Rama said. TikTok did not immediately respond to a request for comment outside normal business hours. Also read: Outgoing US President Biden signs US funding bill to avert government shutdown Several European countries including France, Germany and Belgium have enforced restrictions on social media use for children. In one of the world's toughest regulations targeting Big Tech, Australia approved in November a complete social media ban for children under 16. Rama has blamed social media, and TikTok in particular, for fuelling violence among youth in and outside school. His government's decision comes after a 14-year-old schoolboy was stabbed to death in November by a fellow pupil. Local media had reported that the incident followed arguments between the two boys on social media. Videos had also emerged on TikTok of minors supporting the killing. "The problem today is not our children, the problem today is us, the problem today is our society, the problem today is TikTok and all the others that are taking our children hostage," Rama said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Albania bans TikTok for a year after teen stabbing linked to app sparks social media outrage

Albania on Saturday (December 21) announced a one-year ban on TikTok, the popular short video app, following the killing of a teenager last month that raised fears over the influence of social media on children.

Albania on Saturday (December 21) announced a one-year ban on TikTok, the popular short video app, following the killing of a teenager last month that raised fears over the influence of social media on children. The ban, part of a broader plan to make schools safer, will come into effect early next year, Prime Minister Edi Rama said after meeting with parents' groups and teachers from across the country. "For one year, we'll be completely shutting it down for everyone. There will be no TikTok in Albania," Rama said. TikTok did not immediately respond to a request for comment outside normal business hours. Also read: Outgoing US President Biden signs US funding bill to avert government shutdown Several European countries including France, Germany and Belgium have enforced restrictions on social media use for children. In one of the world's toughest regulations targeting Big Tech, Australia approved in November a complete social media ban for children under 16. Rama has blamed social media, and TikTok in particular, for fuelling violence among youth in and outside school. His government's decision comes after a 14-year-old schoolboy was stabbed to death in November by a fellow pupil. Local media had reported that the incident followed arguments between the two boys on social media. Videos had also emerged on TikTok of minors supporting the killing. "The problem today is not our children, the problem today is us, the problem today is our society, the problem today is TikTok and all the others that are taking our children hostage," Rama said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The tech conflict between China and the United States is reaching a boiling point. This is leaving Bytedance with fewer and fewer choices for TikTok in the US.

The new reality, where more firms will be squeezed from both sides, is laid clear by mutual distrust and tit-for-tat hatred. 
 
As part of an investigation into a deal that Beijing authorised many years ago, Nvidia is now the focus of China's authorities. Washington strengthened chip sanctions on China this week. 
 
In response, Beijing stopped exports of certain minerals with tech uses to the US. This latest measure against Nvidia follows previous recent escalations. 
 
A key component of Ukraine's defence, drones are also being shut off from the US and Europe by China.

Last week, a federal appeals court in the United States upheld a statute that would have banned TikTok unless the company divested itself from its Chinese parent, Bytedance. 
 
That shows how supply chains are still linked. This makes Nvidia an intriguing new target for Beijing.

According to reports, Bytedance is apparently putting all of its eggs in the AI basket to find a growth engine to replace TikTok. This comes as Bytedance becomes Nvidia's biggest customer in China. 
 
To be relevant, Bytedance has expanded its focus beyond its short-form video platform. Now that the us drama has continued for years, the Chinese firm is in a hopeless situation.

Tech businesses with global ambitions will likely have to choose sides and stay in their lane now that the pandora's box is opened. The latest conflict sends a scary message to not become too big in the US. 
 
This comes at a time when other Chinese tech companies are seeking expansion overseas due to domestic spending cuts.

(With inputs from the agencies)

The tech conflict between China and the United States is reaching a boiling point. This is leaving Bytedance with fewer and fewer choices for TikTok in the US. The new reality, where more firms will be squeezed from both sides, is laid clear by mutual distrust and tit-for-tat hatred.

The tech conflict between China and the United States is reaching a boiling point. This is leaving Bytedance with fewer and fewer choices for TikTok in the US. The new reality, where more firms will be squeezed from both sides, is laid clear by mutual distrust and tit-for-tat hatred. As part of an investigation into a deal that Beijing authorised many years ago, Nvidia is now the focus of China's authorities. Washington strengthened chip sanctions on China this week. In response, Beijing stopped exports of certain minerals with tech uses to the US. This latest measure against Nvidia follows previous recent escalations. A key component of Ukraine's defence, drones are also being shut off from the US and Europe by China. Last week, a federal appeals court in the United States upheld a statute that would have banned TikTok unless the company divested itself from its Chinese parent, Bytedance. That shows how supply chains are still linked. This makes Nvidia an intriguing new target for Beijing. According to reports, Bytedance is apparently putting all of its eggs in the AI basket to find a growth engine to replace TikTok. This comes as Bytedance becomes Nvidia's biggest customer in China. To be relevant, Bytedance has expanded its focus beyond its short-form video platform. Now that the us drama has continued for years, the Chinese firm is in a hopeless situation. Tech businesses with global ambitions will likely have to choose sides and stay in their lane now that the pandora's box is opened. The latest conflict sends a scary message to not become too big in the US. This comes at a time when other Chinese tech companies are seeking expansion overseas due to domestic spending cuts. (With inputs from the agencies)

From TikTok to Nvidia, the US-China tech war is getting uglier

US President-elect Donald Trump has met with TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew at Mar-a-Lago ahead of a potential nationwide ban of the app. Watch this report for more details!

Donald Trump And TikTok CEO Meet As App Fights Potential Ban

Washington, United States
TikTok asked the US Supreme Court on Monday to temporarily block a law that would force its Chinese owner to sell the popular online video-sharing platform or shut it down a month from now.
The appeal to the nation's top court came on the same day that TikTok Chief Executive Shou Zi Chew met with US President-elect Donald Trump, according to an NBC News report.
At a press conference Monday, Trump said he has "a warm spot" for TikTok and that his administration would take a look at the app and the potential for a ban.
The law, signed by President Joe Biden in April, would block TikTok from US app stores and web hosting services unless its owner ByteDance divests from the app by January 19.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tiktok-ban-in-america-us-federal-court-rejects-relief-request-783857">TikTok ban in America: US Federal Court rejects appeal to temporarily block ban</a>
TikTok asked for the move to be put on hold while it challenges a lower court ruling that upheld the law, the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, potentially with an appeal to the Supreme Court itself.
TikTok asked the nation's top court to make a decision by January 6.
"Congress has enacted a massive and unprecedented speech restriction," TikTok, which claims to have more than 170 million monthly US users, said in its filing with the Supreme Court.
Should the law come into force it would "shutter one of America's most popular speech platforms the day before a presidential inauguration," TikTok said.
"This, in turn, will silence the speech of Applicants and the many Americans who use the platform to communicate about politics, commerce, arts, and other matters of public concern," it added.
"Applicants -- as well as countless small businesses who rely on the platform -- also will suffer substantial and unrecoverable monetary and competitive harms."
The potential ban could strain US-China relations just as Donald Trump prepares to take office on January 20.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wisconsin-school-shooting-police-identify-15-year-old-natalie-rupnow-as-suspect-2nd-grade-kid-made-911-call-784565">Wisconsin school shooting: Police identify 15-year-old Natalie Rupnow as suspect; 2nd grade kid made 911 call</a>
Trump has emerged as an unlikely TikTok ally amid concerns that a ban on the app would mainly benefit Meta, the Facebook parent company owned by Mark Zuckerberg.
Trump's stance reflects conservative criticism of Meta for allegedly suppressing right-wing content, including the former president himself being banned from Facebook after the January 6, 2021, US Capitol riot by his supporters.
Trump's support for TikTok marks a reversal from his first term, when the Republican leader tried to ban the app over similar security concerns.
The US government alleges TikTok allows Beijing to collect data and spy on users. It also says the video hosting service is a conduit to spread propaganda, though China and ByteDance strongly deny these claims.
A three-judge US appeals court panel earlier this month unanimously upheld the law's premise that TikTok divesting from Chinese ownership "is essential to protect our national security."
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

TikTok asked for the move to be put on hold while it challenges a lower court ruling that upheld the law, the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, potentially with an appeal to the Supreme Court itself



Washington, United States TikTok asked the US Supreme Court on Monday to temporarily block a law that would force its Chinese owner to sell the popular online video-sharing platform or shut it down a month from now. The appeal to the nation's top court came on the same day that TikTok Chief Executive Shou Zi Chew met with US President-elect Donald Trump, according to an NBC News report. At a press conference Monday, Trump said he has "a warm spot" for TikTok and that his administration would take a look at the app and the potential for a ban. The law, signed by President Joe Biden in April, would block TikTok from US app stores and web hosting services unless its owner ByteDance divests from the app by January 19. Also read | TikTok ban in America: US Federal Court rejects appeal to temporarily block ban TikTok asked for the move to be put on hold while it challenges a lower court ruling that upheld the law, the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, potentially with an appeal to the Supreme Court itself. TikTok asked the nation's top court to make a decision by January 6. "Congress has enacted a massive and unprecedented speech restriction," TikTok, which claims to have more than 170 million monthly US users, said in its filing with the Supreme Court. Should the law come into force it would "shutter one of America's most popular speech platforms the day before a presidential inauguration," TikTok said. "This, in turn, will silence the speech of Applicants and the many Americans who use the platform to communicate about politics, commerce, arts, and other matters of public concern," it added. "Applicants -- as well as countless small businesses who rely on the platform -- also will suffer substantial and unrecoverable monetary and competitive harms." The potential ban could strain US-China relations just as Donald Trump prepares to take office on January 20. Also read | Wisconsin school shooting: Police identify 15-year-old Natalie Rupnow as suspect; 2nd grade kid made 911 call Trump has emerged as an unlikely TikTok ally amid concerns that a ban on the app would mainly benefit Meta, the Facebook parent company owned by Mark Zuckerberg. Trump's stance reflects conservative criticism of Meta for allegedly suppressing right-wing content, including the former president himself being banned from Facebook after the January 6, 2021, US Capitol riot by his supporters. Trump's support for TikTok marks a reversal from his first term, when the Republican leader tried to ban the app over similar security concerns. The US government alleges TikTok allows Beijing to collect data and spy on users. It also says the video hosting service is a conduit to spread propaganda, though China and ByteDance strongly deny these claims. A three-judge US appeals court panel earlier this month unanimously upheld the law's premise that TikTok divesting from Chinese ownership "is essential to protect our national security." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

TikTok appeals US Supreme Court to temporarily pause ban in America

TikTok asked the US Supreme Court on Monday to temporarily block a law that would force its Chinese owner to sell the popular online video-sharing platform or shut it down a month from now.

The appeal to the nation's top court came on the same day that TikTok Chief Executive Shou Zi Chew met with US President-elect Donald Trump, according to an NBC News report.

At a press conference Monday, Trump said he has "a warm spot" for TikTok and that his administration would take a look at the app and the potential for a ban.

The law, signed by President Joe Biden in April, would block TikTok from US app stores and web hosting services unless its owner ByteDance divests from the app by January 19.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tiktok-ban-in-america-us-federal-court-rejects-relief-request-783857">TikTok ban in America: US Federal Court rejects appeal to temporarily block ban</a>

TikTok asked for the move to be put on hold while it challenges a lower court ruling that upheld the law, the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, potentially with an appeal to the Supreme Court itself.

TikTok asked the nation's top court to make a decision by January 6.

"Congress has enacted a massive and unprecedented speech restriction," TikTok, which claims to have more than 170 million monthly US users, said in its filing with the Supreme Court.

Should the law come into force it would "shutter one of America's most popular speech platforms the day before a presidential inauguration," TikTok said.

"This, in turn, will silence the speech of Applicants and the many Americans who use the platform to communicate about politics, commerce, arts, and other matters of public concern," it added.

"Applicants -- as well as countless small businesses who rely on the platform -- also will suffer substantial and unrecoverable monetary and competitive harms."

The potential ban could strain US-China relations just as Donald Trump prepares to take office on January 20.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wisconsin-school-shooting-police-identify-15-year-old-natalie-rupnow-as-suspect-2nd-grade-kid-made-911-call-784565">Wisconsin school shooting: Police identify 15-year-old Natalie Rupnow as suspect; 2nd grade kid made 911 call</a>

Trump has emerged as an unlikely TikTok ally amid concerns that a ban on the app would mainly benefit Meta, the Facebook parent company owned by Mark Zuckerberg.

Trump's stance reflects conservative criticism of Meta for allegedly suppressing right-wing content, including the former president himself being banned from Facebook after the January 6, 2021, US Capitol riot by his supporters.

Trump's support for TikTok marks a reversal from his first term, when the Republican leader tried to ban the app over similar security concerns.

The US government alleges TikTok allows Beijing to collect data and spy on users. It also says the video hosting service is a conduit to spread propaganda, though China and ByteDance strongly deny these claims.

A three-judge US appeals court panel earlier this month unanimously upheld the law's premise that TikTok divesting from Chinese ownership "is essential to protect our national security."

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience. 
&nbsp;

TikTok asked the US Supreme Court on Monday to temporarily block a law that would force its Chinese owner to sell the popular online video-sharing platform or shut it down a month from now.

TikTok asked the US Supreme Court on Monday to temporarily block a law that would force its Chinese owner to sell the popular online video-sharing platform or shut it down a month from now. The appeal to the nation's top court came on the same day that TikTok Chief Executive Shou Zi Chew met with US President-elect Donald Trump, according to an NBC News report. At a press conference Monday, Trump said he has "a warm spot" for TikTok and that his administration would take a look at the app and the potential for a ban. The law, signed by President Joe Biden in April, would block TikTok from US app stores and web hosting services unless its owner ByteDance divests from the app by January 19. Also read | TikTok ban in America: US Federal Court rejects appeal to temporarily block ban TikTok asked for the move to be put on hold while it challenges a lower court ruling that upheld the law, the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, potentially with an appeal to the Supreme Court itself. TikTok asked the nation's top court to make a decision by January 6. "Congress has enacted a massive and unprecedented speech restriction," TikTok, which claims to have more than 170 million monthly US users, said in its filing with the Supreme Court. Should the law come into force it would "shutter one of America's most popular speech platforms the day before a presidential inauguration," TikTok said. "This, in turn, will silence the speech of Applicants and the many Americans who use the platform to communicate about politics, commerce, arts, and other matters of public concern," it added. "Applicants -- as well as countless small businesses who rely on the platform -- also will suffer substantial and unrecoverable monetary and competitive harms." The potential ban could strain US-China relations just as Donald Trump prepares to take office on January 20. Also read | Wisconsin school shooting: Police identify 15-year-old Natalie Rupnow as suspect; 2nd grade kid made 911 call Trump has emerged as an unlikely TikTok ally amid concerns that a ban on the app would mainly benefit Meta, the Facebook parent company owned by Mark Zuckerberg. Trump's stance reflects conservative criticism of Meta for allegedly suppressing right-wing content, including the former president himself being banned from Facebook after the January 6, 2021, US Capitol riot by his supporters. Trump's support for TikTok marks a reversal from his first term, when the Republican leader tried to ban the app over similar security concerns. The US government alleges TikTok allows Beijing to collect data and spy on users. It also says the video hosting service is a conduit to spread propaganda, though China and ByteDance strongly deny these claims. A three-judge US appeals court panel earlier this month unanimously upheld the law's premise that TikTok divesting from Chinese ownership "is essential to protect our national security." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

TikTok's future in the United States remains uncertain, as a federal appeals court on Friday (Dec 13) refused to block a looming ban on the popular China-owned application.

The DC Circuit Court of Appeals—which upheld the law last week—declined TikTok’s request to pause the ruling in a brief, unsigned order on Friday, deeming such a block "unwarranted." The battle over TikTok's future in the US is now headed for a high-stakes Supreme Court clash.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/from-tiktok-to-nvidia-the-us-china-tech-war-is-getting-uglier-783670">From TikTok to Nvidia, the US-China tech war is getting uglier</a>

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Statement on DC Circuit Court ruling: 
 
"As we have previously stated, we plan on taking this case to the Supreme Court, which has an established historical record of protecting Americans' right to free speech. The voices of over 170 million Americans here in the US and around the…
— TikTok Policy (@TikTokPolicy) <a href="https://twitter.com/TikTokPolicy/status/1867723883563925795?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>TikTok ban</h2>

In the US, a law, set to take effect on January 19, mandates TikTok's sale to a non-Chinese owner or a full ban in the country. After the deadline, US-based app stores and internet providers could face significant fines for hosting TikTok unless it complies with the forced sale.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/could-trump-save-tiktok-president-elect-might-try-to-block-us-ban-say-allies-report-775795">Could Trump save TikTok? President-elect might try to block US ban, say allies: Report</a>

<h2>TikTok's plea for Supreme Court intervention</h2>

TikTok has signalled its intention to escalate the case to the Supreme Court in its court filings, asking the top court to step in on an emergency basis if the appeals court refuses to grant interim relief.&nbsp;

"Out of respect for the Supreme Court’s vital role, this Court should grant an interim injunction that enables a more deliberate and orderly process," TikTok previously wrote in its court filing.

Lawyers for the company argued that the appeals court's refusal forces the Supreme Court to handle the case on its so-called shadow docket "in mere weeks", potentially over the holiday period.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tiktok-fights-back-bytedance-appeals-to-overturn-unconstitutional-potential-ban-in-us-733665">TikTok fights back: ByteDance appeals against potential ban in US, calls it 'unconstitutional'</a>

Donald Trump, the incoming president, has the one-time option to extend the deadline, reports CNN.

Meanwhile, the incumbent Biden administration has opposed TikTok's request for temporary relief, arguing that this could effectively stall the law indefinitely. Previously, officials have emphasised the urgency of addressing national security concerns linked to TikTok’s Chinese ownership. The platform’s parent company, ByteDance, has consistently denied allegations that it shares user data with the Chinese government. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

TikTok's future in the United States remains uncertain, as a federal appeals court on Friday (Dec 13) refused to block a looming ban on the popular China-owned application.

TikTok's future in the United States remains uncertain, as a federal appeals court on Friday (Dec 13) refused to block a looming ban on the popular China-owned application. The DC Circuit Court of Appeals—which upheld the law last week—declined TikTok’s request to pause the ruling in a brief, unsigned order on Friday, deeming such a block "unwarranted." The battle over TikTok's future in the US is now headed for a high-stakes Supreme Court clash. Also read | From TikTok to Nvidia, the US-China tech war is getting uglier Statement on DC Circuit Court ruling: "As we have previously stated, we plan on taking this case to the Supreme Court, which has an established historical record of protecting Americans' right to free speech. The voices of over 170 million Americans here in the US and around the… — TikTok Policy (@TikTokPolicy) December 14, 2024 × TikTok ban In the US, a law, set to take effect on January 19, mandates TikTok's sale to a non-Chinese owner or a full ban in the country. After the deadline, US-based app stores and internet providers could face significant fines for hosting TikTok unless it complies with the forced sale. Also read | Could Trump save TikTok? President-elect might try to block US ban, say allies: Report TikTok's plea for Supreme Court intervention TikTok has signalled its intention to escalate the case to the Supreme Court in its court filings, asking the top court to step in on an emergency basis if the appeals court refuses to grant interim relief. "Out of respect for the Supreme Court’s vital role, this Court should grant an interim injunction that enables a more deliberate and orderly process," TikTok previously wrote in its court filing. Lawyers for the company argued that the appeals court's refusal forces the Supreme Court to handle the case on its so-called shadow docket "in mere weeks", potentially over the holiday period. Also read | TikTok fights back: ByteDance appeals against potential ban in US, calls it 'unconstitutional' Donald Trump, the incoming president, has the one-time option to extend the deadline, reports CNN. Meanwhile, the incumbent Biden administration has opposed TikTok's request for temporary relief, arguing that this could effectively stall the law indefinitely. Previously, officials have emphasised the urgency of addressing national security concerns linked to TikTok’s Chinese ownership. The platform’s parent company, ByteDance, has consistently denied allegations that it shares user data with the Chinese government. (With inputs from agencies)

TikTok ban in America: US Federal Court rejects appeal to temporarily block ban

Round-up of top and latest news from the world of technology: - Notre Dame VR Experience Launches In Shanghai - 'Termite' Group Claims Responsibility For Blue Yonder Cyberattack - US TikTok Creators Urge Followers To Find Them On Instagram, YouTube

Notre Dame VR Experience Launches In Shanghai

TikTok faces a US ban after an appeals court on Friday rejected its challenge to a law requiring the video-sharing app to divest from its Chinese parent company by January 19.

The potential ban could strain US-China relations just as president-elect Donald Trump prepares to take office on January 20.&nbsp;

The US government alleges TikTok allows Beijing to collect data and spy on users. It also says TikTok is a conduit to spread propaganda, though China and app owner ByteDance strongly deny these claims.

But Trump has emerged as an unlikely ally, arguing that a ban would mainly benefit Meta's platforms owned by Mark Zuckerberg.

The law, signed by President Joe Biden in April, would block TikTok from US app stores and web hosting services unless ByteDance sells the platform by January 19.

The case is now likely to go to the US Supreme Court.

In Friday's legal ruling, a three-judge panel rejected TikTok's main arguments that the US security concerns justifying the law were speculative.

They also disagreed that less drastic alternatives than a sale by ByteDance would solve the issues raised by the US government.

The judges also rejected the notion put forward by TikTok that the law was really about censoring content rather than security.

"This conclusion is supported by ample evidence that the Act is the least restrictive means of advancing the Government’s compelling national security interests," the judges said in their opinion.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-accuses-us-deep-state-elements-for-targeting-pm-modi-says-washington-trying-to-destabilise-india-782118">BJP accuses US 'deep state' elements for targeting PM Modi, says Washington trying to 'destabilise India'</a>

Trump's stance reflects broader conservative criticism of Meta for allegedly suppressing right-wing content, including Trump's ban from Facebook after the January 6, 2021 Capitol riot.

It marks a reversal from Trump's first term, when he tried to ban TikTok over similar security concerns.&nbsp;

That effort got bogged down in the courts when a federal judge questioned how the move would affect free speech and blocked the initiative.

Trump's newly nominated tech policy czar David Sacks also opposes the ban as government overreach.

Trump's shift coincides with his connection to Jeff Yass, a major Republican donor with ByteDance investments.

The President-elect launched his own TikTok account in June, gaining 14.6 million followers, but hasn’t posted since Election Day.

The Wall Street Journal reported that Tiktok CEO Shou Zi Chew has sought support from Elon Musk, who has close ties with Trump.

Despite the uncertainty, TikTok's US presence continues growing.&nbsp;

The platform reported $100 million in Black Friday sales for its new shopping venture, and Emarketer projects US ad revenue will reach $15.5 billion next year, accounting for 4.5 percent of total digital ad spending in the country.

Emarketer lead Analyst Jasmine Enberg warned a ban would significantly disrupt the social media landscape, benefiting Meta, YouTube, and Snap while harming content creators and small businesses dependent on TikTok.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

TikTok faces a US ban after an appeals court on Friday rejected its challenge to a law requiring the video-sharing app to divest from its Chinese parent company by January 19.

TikTok faces a US ban after an appeals court on Friday rejected its challenge to a law requiring the video-sharing app to divest from its Chinese parent company by January 19. The potential ban could strain US-China relations just as president-elect Donald Trump prepares to take office on January 20. The US government alleges TikTok allows Beijing to collect data and spy on users. It also says TikTok is a conduit to spread propaganda, though China and app owner ByteDance strongly deny these claims. But Trump has emerged as an unlikely ally, arguing that a ban would mainly benefit Meta's platforms owned by Mark Zuckerberg. The law, signed by President Joe Biden in April, would block TikTok from US app stores and web hosting services unless ByteDance sells the platform by January 19. The case is now likely to go to the US Supreme Court. In Friday's legal ruling, a three-judge panel rejected TikTok's main arguments that the US security concerns justifying the law were speculative. They also disagreed that less drastic alternatives than a sale by ByteDance would solve the issues raised by the US government. The judges also rejected the notion put forward by TikTok that the law was really about censoring content rather than security. "This conclusion is supported by ample evidence that the Act is the least restrictive means of advancing the Government’s compelling national security interests," the judges said in their opinion. Also Read | BJP accuses US 'deep state' elements for targeting PM Modi, says Washington trying to 'destabilise India' Trump's stance reflects broader conservative criticism of Meta for allegedly suppressing right-wing content, including Trump's ban from Facebook after the January 6, 2021 Capitol riot. It marks a reversal from Trump's first term, when he tried to ban TikTok over similar security concerns. That effort got bogged down in the courts when a federal judge questioned how the move would affect free speech and blocked the initiative. Trump's newly nominated tech policy czar David Sacks also opposes the ban as government overreach. Trump's shift coincides with his connection to Jeff Yass, a major Republican donor with ByteDance investments. The President-elect launched his own TikTok account in June, gaining 14.6 million followers, but hasn’t posted since Election Day. The Wall Street Journal reported that Tiktok CEO Shou Zi Chew has sought support from Elon Musk, who has close ties with Trump. Despite the uncertainty, TikTok's US presence continues growing. The platform reported $100 million in Black Friday sales for its new shopping venture, and Emarketer projects US ad revenue will reach $15.5 billion next year, accounting for 4.5 percent of total digital ad spending in the country. Emarketer lead Analyst Jasmine Enberg warned a ban would significantly disrupt the social media landscape, benefiting Meta, YouTube, and Snap while harming content creators and small businesses dependent on TikTok. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

TikTok faces US ban which could strain Beijing-Washington relations just before Trump takes office

Round-up of top and latest news from the world of technology: - TikTok Restricts Beauty Filters For Teens To Address Mental Health Concerns - Report: India Lost $1.3 Million To Cyber Fraud In 2024 - UK Reviews EV Rules Amid Fears Of Factory Closures And Job Losses

TikTok Restricts Beauty Filters For Teens To Address Mental Health Concerns

To improve looks and artificially making their features look better, teenagers have been using filters on social media platforms to alter their real look. The billion-user social media company, TikTok, is now imposing several restrictions on the use of beauty filters due to rise in anxiety concerns and falling self-esteem.&nbsp;

In the upcoming weeks, teenagers will be restricted from artificially making their eyes bigger, plumping their lips, and smoothing or changing their face tone.&nbsp;

These restrictions will be applied to filters, including&nbsp;'Bold Glamour'&nbsp;that changes people's features in a way that makeup cannot.&nbsp;

However, comic filters that add dog's ears, noses, or bunny ears would not be affected.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadian-government-bans-tiktoks-business-in-country-app-access-continues-774376">Also read:&nbsp;Canadian government bans TikTok’s business in country, app access continues</a>

TikTok announced this change during a safety forum at its European headquarters in Dublin.&nbsp;

Moreover, the efficacy of these restrictions will depend on the people using the social media platform with their real age, which is not exactly the case always.&nbsp;

These filters on such platforms, some provided by TikTok, meanwhile, others created by users, have caused pressure on teenagers, specifically girls, to adopt a polished physical appearance with negative emotional repercussions.&nbsp;

Earlier, TikTok also announced that they were bringing changes in their systems to block users under 13 from the platform, which could potentially remove thousands of British children from accessing the platform.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;US TikTok Ban: Creators oppose TikTok ban as short-video app fights for survival

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Chloe Setter, TikTok’s lead on child safety public policy, said, “We’re hoping that this will give us the ability to detect and remove more and more quickly.”

However, people who are wrongly blocked would be able to raise queries and appeal. “It can obviously be annoying for some young people,” said Setter, but she added that the platform will take a “safety-first approach”.

Moreover, before the end of this year, it will also come up with a trial of new automated systems that use machine learning to identify people who are not abiding by the age restrictions.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

To improve looks and artificially making their features look better, teenagers have been using filters on social media platforms to alter their real look. The billion-user social media company, TikTok, is now imposing several restrictions on the use of beauty filters due to rise in anxiety concerns and falling self-esteem.

To improve looks and artificially making their features look better, teenagers have been using filters on social media platforms to alter their real look. The billion-user social media company, TikTok, is now imposing several restrictions on the use of beauty filters due to rise in anxiety concerns and falling self-esteem. In the upcoming weeks, teenagers will be restricted from artificially making their eyes bigger, plumping their lips, and smoothing or changing their face tone. These restrictions will be applied to filters, including 'Bold Glamour' that changes people's features in a way that makeup cannot. However, comic filters that add dog's ears, noses, or bunny ears would not be affected. Also read: Canadian government bans TikTok’s business in country, app access continues TikTok announced this change during a safety forum at its European headquarters in Dublin. Moreover, the efficacy of these restrictions will depend on the people using the social media platform with their real age, which is not exactly the case always. These filters on such platforms, some provided by TikTok, meanwhile, others created by users, have caused pressure on teenagers, specifically girls, to adopt a polished physical appearance with negative emotional repercussions. Earlier, TikTok also announced that they were bringing changes in their systems to block users under 13 from the platform, which could potentially remove thousands of British children from accessing the platform. Watch | US TikTok Ban: Creators oppose TikTok ban as short-video app fights for survival × Chloe Setter, TikTok’s lead on child safety public policy, said, “We’re hoping that this will give us the ability to detect and remove more and more quickly.” However, people who are wrongly blocked would be able to raise queries and appeal. “It can obviously be annoying for some young people,” said Setter, but she added that the platform will take a “safety-first approach”. Moreover, before the end of this year, it will also come up with a trial of new automated systems that use machine learning to identify people who are not abiding by the age restrictions. (With inputs from agencies)

Teenagers to be restricted from using beauty filters on TikTok over mental health concerns

Enterprising young Kenyan photographers & TikTokers use the streets of Nairobi's central business district to earn some cash, in a country where the UN estimates 67 percent of 15- to 34-year-olds are without a job.

Kenyan Youth Turn to TikTok to Make Ends Meet

Round-up of top and latest news from the world of technology: - TikTok: CEO approaches Elon Musk ahead of mega takeover of Trump administration - Australian Parliament drops misinformation bill amid lack of support - Pokemon Go developer accused of secretly stealing user data to train AI model

TikTok: Byte Dance Eyes Corporation With Trump Administration With Closer Musk Ties | World Tech DNA

United Kingdom MPs will summon SpaceX founder Elon Musk before a parliamentary inquiry for involvement in the UK riots and the rise of false and harmful AI content, the Guardian reported.&nbsp;

Along with Musk, senior executives from Meta, which&nbsp;runs social media platforms Facebook and Instagram, and TikTok are also expected to be summoned as part of a Commons Science and Technology Select Committee social media inquiry.

This comes after Italian President Sergio Mattarella rebuked Musk after he took to X and posted about Italian court rulings that had hindered Italy's right-wing government plans to process some asylum-seekers in Albania.&nbsp;

The first hearings are scheduled to take place in the new year, amid increasing concerns that UK online safety law risk has surged by rapidly advancing technology and the politicisation of platforms such as X.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-strikes-back-after-not-being-invited-to-uk-international-investment-summit-762249">Also read:&nbsp;Elon Musk strikes back after not being invited to UK International Investment Summit</a>

The MPs are expected to probe the consequences of generative AI, which was used in widely shared images posted on Facebook and X, provoking people to join Islamophobic protests after the killing of three schoolgirls in Southport in August.&nbsp;

Moreover, they will also investigate Silicon Valley business models that “encourage the spread of content that can mislead and harm”.

“[Musk] has very strong views on multiple aspects of this,” Chi Onwurah, the Labour chair of the select committee said. “I would certainly like the opportunity to cross-examine him to see … how he reconciles his promotion of freedom of expression with his promotion of pure disinformation.”

Musk was disappointed and furious when he was not invited to a UK government international investment summit in September.&nbsp;

“I’d like to make up for that by inviting him to attend," Onwurah told the Guardian.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;UK: Elon Musk hits back at UK PM after 'civil war' comments dismissed

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This week, former Labour minister Peter Mandelson called for an end to the "feud" between Musk and the UK government.&nbsp;

“He is a sort of technological, industrial, commercial phenomenon,” Mandelson told the How to Win an Election podcast. “And it would be unwise, in my view, for Britain to ignore him. You cannot pursue these feuds.”

Meanwhile, X did not respond when they were asked if Musk would testify in the UK, although it appears unlikely, the Guardian reported.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

United Kingdom MPs will summon SpaceX founder Elon Musk before a parliamentary inquiry for involvement in the UK riots and the rise of false and harmful AI content, the Guardian reported.

United Kingdom MPs will summon SpaceX founder Elon Musk before a parliamentary inquiry for involvement in the UK riots and the rise of false and harmful AI content, the Guardian reported. Along with Musk, senior executives from Meta, which runs social media platforms Facebook and Instagram, and TikTok are also expected to be summoned as part of a Commons Science and Technology Select Committee social media inquiry. This comes after Italian President Sergio Mattarella rebuked Musk after he took to X and posted about Italian court rulings that had hindered Italy's right-wing government plans to process some asylum-seekers in Albania. The first hearings are scheduled to take place in the new year, amid increasing concerns that UK online safety law risk has surged by rapidly advancing technology and the politicisation of platforms such as X. Also read: Elon Musk strikes back after not being invited to UK International Investment Summit The MPs are expected to probe the consequences of generative AI, which was used in widely shared images posted on Facebook and X, provoking people to join Islamophobic protests after the killing of three schoolgirls in Southport in August. Moreover, they will also investigate Silicon Valley business models that “encourage the spread of content that can mislead and harm”. “[Musk] has very strong views on multiple aspects of this,” Chi Onwurah, the Labour chair of the select committee said. “I would certainly like the opportunity to cross-examine him to see … how he reconciles his promotion of freedom of expression with his promotion of pure disinformation.” Musk was disappointed and furious when he was not invited to a UK government international investment summit in September. “I’d like to make up for that by inviting him to attend," Onwurah told the Guardian. Watch | UK: Elon Musk hits back at UK PM after 'civil war' comments dismissed × This week, former Labour minister Peter Mandelson called for an end to the "feud" between Musk and the UK government. “He is a sort of technological, industrial, commercial phenomenon,” Mandelson told the How to Win an Election podcast. “And it would be unwise, in my view, for Britain to ignore him. You cannot pursue these feuds.” Meanwhile, X did not respond when they were asked if Musk would testify in the UK, although it appears unlikely, the Guardian reported. (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk to be summoned by UK MPs over X's role in UK riots

The darling of most American media until November 5, Kamala Harris is suddenly off the headlines. But she will go down in history as the valiant fighter who came tantalisingly&nbsp;close to becoming the first woman US president. 
 
Had she won&nbsp;against Republican President-elect Donald Trump, Harris would have also been the first Asian and Indian-American to occupy the White House.

That was not to be.

Watch: Why Kamala Harris Lost The US Election?

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One wonders why she lost the election.

While I wrote here earlier that she is unlikely to win (link below), the 226 electoral votes she got against Donald Trump's 312 – the majority mark being 270 – is quite impressive for a late-start campaign.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/kamala-harris-for-president-after-biden-exits-race-vice-president-enters-what-are-her-chances-743300">Also read:&nbsp;Kamala Harris for president: After Biden exits, his vice president enters race, but can she win?</a> 
 
That late start was indeed one of the key issues.

Even some Democrats must have felt that she leapfrogged the proper process – the Democratic primaries – and was thrust into the limelight when incumbent president and Democratic nominee Joe Biden pulled out after days of inner-party squabbles.

<h2>How the Democrats ruined it for Kamala Harris</h2>

If she were in the Democratic primaries, could her fate have been different?

That's a big if.&nbsp; 
 
Suppose Harris was on the ballot for primaries. Even while being the incumbent vice president, she would have had to criticise Biden, and by extension, her own government.&nbsp;

As it happened, there were no serious contenders against Biden since he formally announced his re-election bid.

His Democratic primary opponents: author Marianne Williamson, Representative Dean Phillips and Robert F Kennedy Jr, exited the race one way or the other.

RJF Jr, from the hallowed and mostly Democratic Kennedy family, was the only temporary jolt for the party machine. Having started as a Democratic contender, RFK Jr switched to independent and eventually pulled out, only to support Trump, and is being rewarded with a role in the upcoming Trump administration.

Biden had an impressive number of delegates going into the Democratic Party Convention in August.

But a lot happened in July.

It was a tight situation for Democrats when, having gone into election mode after Biden won the required delegates to be declared the presidential candidate at the convention, they realised the 81-year-old was not a good pick, after all.

Biden's endless gaffes, slips and falls made many question&nbsp;his physical and mental capabilities to run for the top office once again.

His fumbling and rambling answers during the presidential debate with Trump in June made him look weak.&nbsp;

And then, Democrats went into a tizzy, creating the unprecedented situation of pressurising a candidate, who had done one presidential debate with the opponent,&nbsp;to exit the race.

Media reports about Biden's failing health followed, and Democrat donors threatened to pull campaign cash if Biden didn't exit.

Despite issuing nice-looking health report cards and his own assurances that he's fit to run for office again, many Democrat voters were still not convinced.

Or so the party thought.

Nancy Pelosi, the Democrat dame and speaker emeritus, as well as other senior leaders including, reportedly, ex-president Barack Obama, tried to convince Biden to quit the race.

Eventually, he relented, but in hindsight, that was too late, too little.

<h2>Harris campaign: A dash towards defeat</h2>

While there were reports of a 'palace coup' in which Harris was already putting in place a team in case Biden decided not to run, the time left for a robust campaign was too little.

In what raised many eyebrows, Biden 'transferred' all the delegates he had amassed to Kamala and her running mate Tim Walz and the Democratic Convention named them the candidates in a&nbsp;&nbsp;'roll-call nomination.'

The whole thing was mocked widely, particularly in the right-wing media, who painted Harris (it seems successful) as an imposter.

Having a rather forgettable running mate in Walz didn't help matters either for Harris.&nbsp;

Her media blitzkrieg of unusual appearances at TV and web shows were seen by many as ambushes.

The host of Call Her Daddy, a rather non-political show, was criticised for having invited her as a guest.

Fox News ran a campaign on how Kamala didn't address an open press conference, instead choosing to do one-on-one interviews seen as stage-managed affairs.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-kamala-harris-said-in-concession-speech-while-trump-plans-first-100-days-in-white-house-774159">Kamala Harris delivers defiant concession speech as Trump wins 2024 presidential election</a>

And then, there were the 'word salads'.

Many of her answers to serious questions were rather convoluted, particularly America's support to Israel in its war against Hamas, and to Ukraine against Russia.

On the Israel question, it emerged that CBS 60 Minutes edited out parts of her interview – or re-recorded it &nbsp;– to make the answer more palatable.

Trump and his surrogates went to town to expose her on these.&nbsp;

Trump, whose track record is anti-war – not because of any noble ideal, but because he doesn't want to fight in or pay for wars where American interests are not directly under attack – criticised US funding to Ukraine's war efforts.

He kept on saying in campaign speeches that he is the only one who could end the wars.&nbsp;

Many uncommitted voters, part of the silent majority, appear to have believed him.

Arab- and Muslim-Americans were particularly riled by the Biden administration's failure to stop the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, which was invaded by Israel after the October 7 terror attack by Hamas.

The Harris campaign's communication efforts were annoying at best and outrageous at worst.

They couldn't advise her not to laugh out loud so much.

That led to 'cackling Kamala' jokes and memes, which Trump and his supporters exploited to the hilt.

There were gems like the advert appearing to suggest women reject Black men if they are not voting Democrat.

In their speeches for Harris addressed to African Americans, Barack Obama and his wife Michelle appeared to come across as condescending.

It was like, here are some entitled African-American leaders telling the Blacks how to live their lives, do their jobs, and vote.

That may have flipped many Blacks to vote for Trump.

On the economy, she appeared out of touch with the cost of living reality of middle-class and working-class Americans, despite insisting on all possible occasions that she comes from a middle-class background.

As practically the immigration tzar of the Biden administration, Harris had not much to boast of.

Many Latin American voters, it appears, may have voted for Trump because they also share the same worries and fears about migration from lawless lands in the continent as much as the white majority who Trump considers his base.

Trump succeeded in making Harris look weak on illegal migration from the southern border, as caravans of asylum seekers poured in.

That leaves us with women and young voters.&nbsp;

Quite stunningly, it emerged as per exit polls that fewer women voted for Harris than they did for Biden in 2020.

Abortion, the main issue Democrats thought would galvanise women towards Harris, did not work.

Neither did Harris' efforts to paint Trump as a dictator and anti-woman.

It might seem improbable, but Trump's escape from an assassination attempt, and his non-committal stance on banning Chinese-owned TikTok may have drawn more youngsters to him.

The TikTok ban move by the Biden administration was a risky one politically. The Democrats didn't understand how much American kids loved the short video-sharing platform. For them, it was a form of communication and self-expression for a generation.

While these may not be the only reasons, it is clear that Trump was preferred over Harris by many in Gen Z and millennials.&nbsp;

Also, note that there was an effort ahead of the Democratic primary to put 'uncommitted' as an option.

This means many of the Democratic voters were not ready for Biden.

It is quite possible that some of them may have voted for Trump.

In summary, while much of the reasons for her defeat had to do with circumstances, Harris didn't help her own campaign.

Now as per custom, the vice president faces the ignominy of signing the document that will declare Trump as the next president after the joint Congress session on January 6, right on the fourth anniversary of the Capitol riots instigated by Trump in rejection of the 2020 election outcome.

Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

The darling of most American media until November 5, Kamala Harris is suddenly off the headlines. But she will go down in history as the valiant fighter who came tantalisingly close to becoming the first woman US president.

The darling of most American media until November 5, Kamala Harris is suddenly off the headlines. But she will go down in history as the valiant fighter who came tantalisingly close to becoming the first woman US president. Had she won against Republican President-elect Donald Trump, Harris would have also been the first Asian and Indian-American to occupy the White House. That was not to be. Watch: Why Kamala Harris Lost The US Election? × One wonders why she lost the election. While I wrote here earlier that she is unlikely to win (link below), the 226 electoral votes she got against Donald Trump's 312 – the majority mark being 270 – is quite impressive for a late-start campaign. Also read: Kamala Harris for president: After Biden exits, his vice president enters race, but can she win? That late start was indeed one of the key issues. Even some Democrats must have felt that she leapfrogged the proper process – the Democratic primaries – and was thrust into the limelight when incumbent president and Democratic nominee Joe Biden pulled out after days of inner-party squabbles. How the Democrats ruined it for Kamala Harris If she were in the Democratic primaries, could her fate have been different? That's a big if. Suppose Harris was on the ballot for primaries. Even while being the incumbent vice president, she would have had to criticise Biden, and by extension, her own government. As it happened, there were no serious contenders against Biden since he formally announced his re-election bid. His Democratic primary opponents: author Marianne Williamson, Representative Dean Phillips and Robert F Kennedy Jr, exited the race one way or the other. RJF Jr, from the hallowed and mostly Democratic Kennedy family, was the only temporary jolt for the party machine. Having started as a Democratic contender, RFK Jr switched to independent and eventually pulled out, only to support Trump, and is being rewarded with a role in the upcoming Trump administration. Biden had an impressive number of delegates going into the Democratic Party Convention in August. But a lot happened in July. It was a tight situation for Democrats when, having gone into election mode after Biden won the required delegates to be declared the presidential candidate at the convention, they realised the 81-year-old was not a good pick, after all. Biden's endless gaffes, slips and falls made many question his physical and mental capabilities to run for the top office once again. His fumbling and rambling answers during the presidential debate with Trump in June made him look weak. And then, Democrats went into a tizzy, creating the unprecedented situation of pressurising a candidate, who had done one presidential debate with the opponent, to exit the race. Media reports about Biden's failing health followed, and Democrat donors threatened to pull campaign cash if Biden didn't exit. Despite issuing nice-looking health report cards and his own assurances that he's fit to run for office again, many Democrat voters were still not convinced. Or so the party thought. Nancy Pelosi, the Democrat dame and speaker emeritus, as well as other senior leaders including, reportedly, ex-president Barack Obama, tried to convince Biden to quit the race. Eventually, he relented, but in hindsight, that was too late, too little. Harris campaign: A dash towards defeat While there were reports of a 'palace coup' in which Harris was already putting in place a team in case Biden decided not to run, the time left for a robust campaign was too little. In what raised many eyebrows, Biden 'transferred' all the delegates he had amassed to Kamala and her running mate Tim Walz and the Democratic Convention named them the candidates in a 'roll-call nomination.' The whole thing was mocked widely, particularly in the right-wing media, who painted Harris (it seems successful) as an imposter. Having a rather forgettable running mate in Walz didn't help matters either for Harris. Her media blitzkrieg of unusual appearances at TV and web shows were seen by many as ambushes. The host of Call Her Daddy, a rather non-political show, was criticised for having invited her as a guest. Fox News ran a campaign on how Kamala didn't address an open press conference, instead choosing to do one-on-one interviews seen as stage-managed affairs. Also read: Kamala Harris delivers defiant concession speech as Trump wins 2024 presidential election And then, there were the 'word salads'. Many of her answers to serious questions were rather convoluted, particularly America's support to Israel in its war against Hamas, and to Ukraine against Russia. On the Israel question, it emerged that CBS 60 Minutes edited out parts of her interview – or re-recorded it – to make the answer more palatable. Trump and his surrogates went to town to expose her on these. Trump, whose track record is anti-war – not because of any noble ideal, but because he doesn't want to fight in or pay for wars where American interests are not directly under attack – criticised US funding to Ukraine's war efforts. He kept on saying in campaign speeches that he is the only one who could end the wars. Many uncommitted voters, part of the silent majority, appear to have believed him. Arab- and Muslim-Americans were particularly riled by the Biden administration's failure to stop the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, which was invaded by Israel after the October 7 terror attack by Hamas. The Harris campaign's communication efforts were annoying at best and outrageous at worst. They couldn't advise her not to laugh out loud so much. That led to 'cackling Kamala' jokes and memes, which Trump and his supporters exploited to the hilt. There were gems like the advert appearing to suggest women reject Black men if they are not voting Democrat. In their speeches for Harris addressed to African Americans, Barack Obama and his wife Michelle appeared to come across as condescending. It was like, here are some entitled African-American leaders telling the Blacks how to live their lives, do their jobs, and vote. That may have flipped many Blacks to vote for Trump. On the economy, she appeared out of touch with the cost of living reality of middle-class and working-class Americans, despite insisting on all possible occasions that she comes from a middle-class background. As practically the immigration tzar of the Biden administration, Harris had not much to boast of. Many Latin American voters, it appears, may have voted for Trump because they also share the same worries and fears about migration from lawless lands in the continent as much as the white majority who Trump considers his base. Trump succeeded in making Harris look weak on illegal migration from the southern border, as caravans of asylum seekers poured in. That leaves us with women and young voters. Quite stunningly, it emerged as per exit polls that fewer women voted for Harris than they did for Biden in 2020. Abortion, the main issue Democrats thought would galvanise women towards Harris, did not work. Neither did Harris' efforts to paint Trump as a dictator and anti-woman. It might seem improbable, but Trump's escape from an assassination attempt, and his non-committal stance on banning Chinese-owned TikTok may have drawn more youngsters to him. The TikTok ban move by the Biden administration was a risky one politically. The Democrats didn't understand how much American kids loved the short video-sharing platform. For them, it was a form of communication and self-expression for a generation. While these may not be the only reasons, it is clear that Trump was preferred over Harris by many in Gen Z and millennials. Also, note that there was an effort ahead of the Democratic primary to put 'uncommitted' as an option. This means many of the Democratic voters were not ready for Biden. It is quite possible that some of them may have voted for Trump. In summary, while much of the reasons for her defeat had to do with circumstances, Harris didn't help her own campaign. Now as per custom, the vice president faces the ignominy of signing the document that will declare Trump as the next president after the joint Congress session on January 6, right on the fourth anniversary of the Capitol riots instigated by Trump in rejection of the 2020 election outcome. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

Why did Kamala Harris lose US presidential election? Putting together the pieces of a puzzle

President-elect Donald Trump may try to stop a looming ban on popular Chinese app TikTok, which faces a January deadline to secure non-Chinese ownership or risk losing access to US users.

<h2>Why would Trump block the TikTok ban?</h2>

Trump is yet to announce a decision on if or how he would intervene on TikTok's behalf if necessary.

Previously, in June, he said: “I’m gonna save TikTok,” in one of his first videos on TikTok. 
&nbsp; 
As per a Washington Post report citing people familiar with the matter, Trump “appreciates the breadth and reach of TikTok, which he used masterfully along with podcasts and new media entrants to win.”

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-mike-huckabee-donald-trumps-pick-for-us-ambassador-to-israel-775719">Who is Mike Huckabee? Donald Trump's pick for US ambassador to Israel</a>

Kellyanne Conway, who ran Trump’s first presidential campaign, said, “There are many ways to hold China to account outside alienating 180 million US users each month. Trump recognised early on that Democrats are the party of bans — gas-powered cars, menthol cigarettes, vapes, plastic straws and TikTok — and to let them own that draconian, anti-personal-choice space.”

<h2>Why was TikTok being banned?</h2>

The potential ban was driven by bipartisan national security concerns over China’s influence, and some of Trump’s advisors believe he could intervene to save the platform, a move which would mark a significant shift in US policy on TikTok.

The law targeting TikTok requires its Chinese owner, ByteDance, to divest by 19 January, just one day before Trump’s inauguration.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-says-not-everyone-is-welcome-as-trump-20-mass-deportations-looms-775753">Canada says 'not everyone is welcome' as Trump 2.0 mass deportations looms</a>

Trump could seek to delay or block enforcement of this law, possibly by leveraging legislative changes or urging his administration’s attorney general to de-prioritise enforcement. The incoming administration may also consider ByteDance’s earlier proposal, “Project Texas,” which would grant the US government significant control over TikTok’s operations, including its workforce, as a potential compromise to avoid a ban.

While the Joe Biden administration had rejected the proposal, TikTok owner ByteDance previously said that the offer was still on the table.

However, such a move would likely provoke resistance from national security hawks within Trump’s own party, including his pick for Secretary of State, Senator Marco Rubio, who has strongly advocated for a TikTok ban.

(With inputs from agencies)

President-elect Donald Trump may try to stop a looming ban on popular Chinese app TikTok, which faces a January deadline to secure non-Chinese ownership or risk losing access to US users.

President-elect Donald Trump may try to stop a looming ban on popular Chinese app TikTok, which faces a January deadline to secure non-Chinese ownership or risk losing access to US users. Why would Trump block the TikTok ban? Trump is yet to announce a decision on if or how he would intervene on TikTok's behalf if necessary. Previously, in June, he said: “I’m gonna save TikTok,” in one of his first videos on TikTok. As per a Washington Post report citing people familiar with the matter, Trump “appreciates the breadth and reach of TikTok, which he used masterfully along with podcasts and new media entrants to win.” Also read | Who is Mike Huckabee? Donald Trump's pick for US ambassador to Israel Kellyanne Conway, who ran Trump’s first presidential campaign, said, “There are many ways to hold China to account outside alienating 180 million US users each month. Trump recognised early on that Democrats are the party of bans — gas-powered cars, menthol cigarettes, vapes, plastic straws and TikTok — and to let them own that draconian, anti-personal-choice space.” Why was TikTok being banned? The potential ban was driven by bipartisan national security concerns over China’s influence, and some of Trump’s advisors believe he could intervene to save the platform, a move which would mark a significant shift in US policy on TikTok. The law targeting TikTok requires its Chinese owner, ByteDance, to divest by 19 January, just one day before Trump’s inauguration. Also read | Canada says 'not everyone is welcome' as Trump 2.0 mass deportations looms Trump could seek to delay or block enforcement of this law, possibly by leveraging legislative changes or urging his administration’s attorney general to de-prioritise enforcement. The incoming administration may also consider ByteDance’s earlier proposal, “Project Texas,” which would grant the US government significant control over TikTok’s operations, including its workforce, as a potential compromise to avoid a ban. While the Joe Biden administration had rejected the proposal, TikTok owner ByteDance previously said that the offer was still on the table. However, such a move would likely provoke resistance from national security hawks within Trump’s own party, including his pick for Secretary of State, Senator Marco Rubio, who has strongly advocated for a TikTok ban. (With inputs from agencies)

Could Trump save TikTok? President-elect might try to block US ban, say allies: Report

Apart from literally dodging the bullet, there were a number of things Republican Donald Trump did right in his successful bid to return as United States president. Here is a breakdown of the factors that contributed to doing what was deemed impossible: winning the White House for a non-consecutive second term.

<h2>1. Early bird gets the votes: Starting campaign before election season</h2>

Trump's campaign was not months, but years old. He announced his re-election campaign way back in 2022, as soon as the dust settled on the Covid pandemic. He established his campaign team, without allowing any of them to dominate the headlines, unlike people like Kellyanne Conway in his first campaign of 2016, who became the story. In 2024, his comms team was almost invisible, till he called them on stage to thank them during his victory speech on the night of November 5. Susie Wiles, who will now become his chief of staff, is one among them.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-20-cabinet-who-is-susie-wiles-the-ice-maiden-and-first-woman-white-house-chief-of-staff-774501">Also read: Trump 2.0 cabinet: Who is Susie Wiles, the 'ice maiden' and first woman White House chief of staff?</a>

<h2>2. Playing victim card on legal troubles</h2>

There was an appearance that the Democratic regime was trying to send Trump to jail over a number of cases: election subversion related to the Capitol riots of 6 January 2021, tax-related lawsuits and the Stormy Daniels affair being prominent among them. But each court appearance made him a star in the eyes of his supporters, who only grew in numbers as the cases dragged on. Trump called it a 'witch hunt', as it was pretty clear that none of these would lead to any logical conclusion, for fear of upsetting presidential immunity. Had Trump been jailed (if he lost the election), that would have set the precedent of future governments prosecuting past presidents. Trump played the victim card to the hilt, which appears to have appealed to more voters than Democrats expected.

Watch: US Elections 2024: Tracking 'Moments' Leading To Trump 2.0

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<h2>3. Not involving his family: It was always 'I, me, myself'</h2>

Trump's family – particularly his wife Melania, daughter Ivanka and son-in-law Jared Kushner – were hounded with disparaging stories in the liberal media throughout his presidency of 2016-2020. This time around, he appears to have taken a conscious decision not to foreground his family. Most of the time, Ivanka and Kushner kept a low profile, even appearing to distance themselves from the campaign. Melania came to the limelight with her book, but Trump only occasionally mentioned her on the campaign trail, and she herself appeared only sporadically with him.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-election-2024-results-live-updates-latest-news-on-2024-presidential-election-donald-trump-vs-kamala-harris-773440">Also read: AS IT HAPPENED | US Election Results 2024: Donald Trump wins presidency with clear mandate</a>

<h2>4. Dodging the bullet in a key swing state</h2>

The biggest moment for Trump's entire campaign was the failed assassination bid on&nbsp;July 13, when he was addressing a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. In hindsight, the fact that it happened in Pennsylvania was to his great advantage, with the crucial swing state eventually giving him the electoral college votes that put paid to the election. Trump's fist-pumping and exhortation to the crowd 'fight, fight, fight' later became a rallying cry and campaign slogan/placard sign for his base. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-dont-get-it-moment-polling-nostradamus-realises-his-prediction-of-kamala-harris-win-is-wrong-774169">Also read: 'I don’t get it': Moment ‘polling Nostradamus’ realises his prediction of Kamala Harris' win is wrong</a>

<h2>5. Not talking to liberal press and not&nbsp;depending on celebrity endorsements</h2>

This time, Trump carefully chose who he gave interviews to, almost always avoiding the liberal media. He instead gave a long interview to Joe Rogan, the popular podcaster, and Tucker Carlson, the former Fox News host. It helped that former Fox News host Megyn Kelly was by his side and spoke for him at his rallies, giving a different perspective to the stereotype that Trump was disliked by women.

<h2>6. Not taking part in primary debates</h2>

Trump mostly ignored his own party's candidate nomination process, not taking part in the Republican primary debates, instead focusing on holding rallies across the country to activate his base. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, his first major challenger, eventually exited. Those who came up as his potential challengers during the primaries either joined him – like Vivek Ramaswamy – or grudgingly accepted his dominance as the presumptive nominee – like Nikki Haley, who was the holdout until the last minute. Outside the party, the only non-viable yet, potentially vote-cutting, independent candidate Robert F Kennedy Jr eventually endorsed Trump.

<h2>7. Changing the Republican party to suit him: The Trump takeover</h2>

Over the past years, Trump moulded the Republican party on his own self. Its concerns became the same as his: fight against illegal immigration, upholding conservative values when it came to issues like abortion and transgender rights, advocating the least government intervention including no tax hikes for the upper middle class and the wealthy. He endorsed Republican candidates for Senate, House and governor races, and even some local polls, with most of them going on to win. The icing on the cake was his appointment of a family member as the Republican Party's National Committee. Lara Trump, the former TV producer married to Trump's son Eric, became the RNC co-chair in March, a crowning moment for the Trump takeover of his party.

<h2>8. Appealing to the grassroots, amplifying their fears</h2>

Trump appealed to the overwhelming fears of the white majority about illegal immigration, disruption of the family unit through increasing rights for same-sex unions and transgenders, and perceived threat to deeply held Christian values in much of middle and southern America. As the final electoral results map shows, this helped him cut into the so-called blue states, essentially breaking the votes from north to south in the middle of America, leaving the Democratic contender Kamala Harris with only the more liberal states in the east and west coasts. While Democrats felt abortion was a major issue that would swing women against Trump, it appears that many women disagreed.

<h2>9. Knowing the pulse of working class on immigration, economy</h2>

By amplifying the concerns about slow job growth, illegal migration&nbsp;and urban blight, Trump was able to add more supporters from non-white communities too. Hispanics in the country were equally fearful of the migration caravans coming in from Latin America as much as the white majority. Because one, it disrupted their lives and exposed them to racist attacks. And two, illegal migrants were competition for them. Many Latinos who voted for Trump may have carefully considered these issues before making that decision. With the African American community too, there appears to have been a shift, albeit minor. Those Blacks who voted for Trump were basically doing a protest vote against the Democrats, who they felt appeared to lecture them. Every election season, leaders like Barack Obama and Michelle Obama appeal to the Black community, even as Democratic governments did not make their lives any better. At least that was the perception among the pro-Trump Blacks, who voted in hopes that any improvement in the economy under Trump would help them get jobs.

<h2>10. Not doing too many debates</h2>

Trump never appeared too keen to do presidential debates. The only time he debated Joe Biden (he was the 'original' Democratic presidential candidate, remember?), he came out on top, not by his own performance but because of how incoherent the incumbent president sounded. To his credit, Trump was much more calm and collected when he debated Kamala Harris, a far cry from his aggressive ways during the debates with Hillary Clinton in 2016.

<h2>11. Concentrating on swing states, and getting shot in one of them</h2>

Trump concentrated much of his energies on the seven swing states: Georgia, Pennsylvania, Arizona, Nevada, Michigan, Wisconsin and North Carolina. Among these, Georgia and North Carolina with their anti-Black racist history and population dynamics were tough to crack into. Georgia was also the scene of battle of the 2020 election rigging claims by Trump, so it sounded improbable that he would win there. Trump concentrated on these states during his campaign, was shot at in one of them as mentioned earlier, and eventually won or flipped all of them.

<h2>12. Appealing to young voters: TikTok generation loved him</h2>

It might sound improbable, but Trump's non-committal stance on banning TikTok, the Chinese-owned video-sharing platform massively loved by American youth, may have contributed to his appeal among Gen Z. Many TikTokers and TikTok users hated the Biden administration for the ban move. At a desperate moment, Biden himself joined TikTok even amid these moves, but it was far too little, too late. Trump supporters amplified his views and stances on various issues through TikTok as well as other social media apps.

<h2>13. Embracing social media, and Elon Musk</h2>

Trump started Truth Social when his social media accounts, particularly Twitter under the old management, banned his accounts. Over the years, Twitter was taken over by Elon Musk, a 'free-speech absolutist' who did not squirm at any of the white supremacist conspiracies being peddled on the now-rechristened X. Contrary to market pundits' expectations, Truth Social took off massively as the platform to share pro-Trump and Conservative views. When Trump rejected a platform, he created his own.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/musks-interview-with-trump-on-x-hit-by-massive-cyberattack-749606">Also read: Donald Trump's interview with Elon Musk on X hit by 'massive' cyberattack</a>

Democrats underestimated the fact that half of the electorate was logged on to a non-legacy platform and getting their information from it. Towards the final lap of his campaign, Musk became an open supporter of Trump and addressed his rallies. For Musk, it was a desperate moment, as he feared Harris, if elected, would have folded up X. Add to this the legacy media's unwillingness to endorse Harris, Los Angeles Times and Washington Post being the most prominent examples.

<h2>14. Having a lot of money</h2>

Money speaks in American politics, and having a lot of it is helpful. Trump practically ran most of his campaign out of his own pocket, with the erstwhile mass donors like super PACs not emerging as key players unlike in past elections. Trump's wealth, fuelled mainly by the growth of Truth Social was listed in stock exchanges in March this year and helped bankroll a major part of his campaign, along with some super donors. Clearly, having the richest man in the world Elon Musk by his side may have helped things too.

<h2>15. A little bit of help from Democrats</h2>

Much more than anything Trump did, it was perhaps the disarray and disunity among Democrats and the often incoherent speeches of both its candidates – Biden and Harris – that probably led many undecided voters to cast their ballots in favour of Trump. 'Chaos' was a favourite word of Trump-bashing media during his presidency, but Democrats became the embodiment of that description this election season.

The first issue was Biden's insistence on seeking another term despite pressure from his own party, a stark contrast with his public appearances and statements that exposed the weak state of his mind and body.

When Kamala Harris was thrust into the campaign, the Democratic primaries had already chosen Biden as their candidate in the primaries. That she did not have to go through the pains of the primaries contest may have alienated even many Democrats, because, let's face it, it ain't fair.

In her short and sprightly campaign, Kamala appeared out of touch with the realities of middle-class America, even as she kept on saying she comes from such a family. Her record as a prosecutor who sent many Blacks to jail did not augur well for her campaign either. 
 
Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

Apart from literally dodging the bullet, there were a number of things Republican Donald Trump did right in his successful bid to return as United States president.

Apart from literally dodging the bullet, there were a number of things Republican Donald Trump did right in his successful bid to return as United States president. Here is a breakdown of the factors that contributed to doing what was deemed impossible: winning the White House for a non-consecutive second term. 1. Early bird gets the votes: Starting campaign before election season Trump's campaign was not months, but years old. He announced his re-election campaign way back in 2022, as soon as the dust settled on the Covid pandemic. He established his campaign team, without allowing any of them to dominate the headlines, unlike people like Kellyanne Conway in his first campaign of 2016, who became the story. In 2024, his comms team was almost invisible, till he called them on stage to thank them during his victory speech on the night of November 5. Susie Wiles, who will now become his chief of staff, is one among them. Also read: Trump 2.0 cabinet: Who is Susie Wiles, the 'ice maiden' and first woman White House chief of staff? 2. Playing victim card on legal troubles There was an appearance that the Democratic regime was trying to send Trump to jail over a number of cases: election subversion related to the Capitol riots of 6 January 2021, tax-related lawsuits and the Stormy Daniels affair being prominent among them. But each court appearance made him a star in the eyes of his supporters, who only grew in numbers as the cases dragged on. Trump called it a 'witch hunt', as it was pretty clear that none of these would lead to any logical conclusion, for fear of upsetting presidential immunity. Had Trump been jailed (if he lost the election), that would have set the precedent of future governments prosecuting past presidents. Trump played the victim card to the hilt, which appears to have appealed to more voters than Democrats expected. Watch: US Elections 2024: Tracking 'Moments' Leading To Trump 2.0 × 3. Not involving his family: It was always 'I, me, myself' Trump's family – particularly his wife Melania, daughter Ivanka and son-in-law Jared Kushner – were hounded with disparaging stories in the liberal media throughout his presidency of 2016-2020. This time around, he appears to have taken a conscious decision not to foreground his family. Most of the time, Ivanka and Kushner kept a low profile, even appearing to distance themselves from the campaign. Melania came to the limelight with her book, but Trump only occasionally mentioned her on the campaign trail, and she herself appeared only sporadically with him. Also read: AS IT HAPPENED | US Election Results 2024: Donald Trump wins presidency with clear mandate 4. Dodging the bullet in a key swing state The biggest moment for Trump's entire campaign was the failed assassination bid on July 13, when he was addressing a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. In hindsight, the fact that it happened in Pennsylvania was to his great advantage, with the crucial swing state eventually giving him the electoral college votes that put paid to the election. Trump's fist-pumping and exhortation to the crowd 'fight, fight, fight' later became a rallying cry and campaign slogan/placard sign for his base. Also read: 'I don’t get it': Moment ‘polling Nostradamus’ realises his prediction of Kamala Harris' win is wrong 5. Not talking to liberal press and not depending on celebrity endorsements This time, Trump carefully chose who he gave interviews to, almost always avoiding the liberal media. He instead gave a long interview to Joe Rogan, the popular podcaster, and Tucker Carlson, the former Fox News host. It helped that former Fox News host Megyn Kelly was by his side and spoke for him at his rallies, giving a different perspective to the stereotype that Trump was disliked by women. 6. Not taking part in primary debates Trump mostly ignored his own party's candidate nomination process, not taking part in the Republican primary debates, instead focusing on holding rallies across the country to activate his base. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, his first major challenger, eventually exited. Those who came up as his potential challengers during the primaries either joined him – like Vivek Ramaswamy – or grudgingly accepted his dominance as the presumptive nominee – like Nikki Haley, who was the holdout until the last minute. Outside the party, the only non-viable yet, potentially vote-cutting, independent candidate Robert F Kennedy Jr eventually endorsed Trump. 7. Changing the Republican party to suit him: The Trump takeover Over the past years, Trump moulded the Republican party on his own self. Its concerns became the same as his: fight against illegal immigration, upholding conservative values when it came to issues like abortion and transgender rights, advocating the least government intervention including no tax hikes for the upper middle class and the wealthy. He endorsed Republican candidates for Senate, House and governor races, and even some local polls, with most of them going on to win. The icing on the cake was his appointment of a family member as the Republican Party's National Committee. Lara Trump, the former TV producer married to Trump's son Eric, became the RNC co-chair in March, a crowning moment for the Trump takeover of his party. 8. Appealing to the grassroots, amplifying their fears Trump appealed to the overwhelming fears of the white majority about illegal immigration, disruption of the family unit through increasing rights for same-sex unions and transgenders, and perceived threat to deeply held Christian values in much of middle and southern America. As the final electoral results map shows, this helped him cut into the so-called blue states, essentially breaking the votes from north to south in the middle of America, leaving the Democratic contender Kamala Harris with only the more liberal states in the east and west coasts. While Democrats felt abortion was a major issue that would swing women against Trump, it appears that many women disagreed. 9. Knowing the pulse of working class on immigration, economy By amplifying the concerns about slow job growth, illegal migration and urban blight, Trump was able to add more supporters from non-white communities too. Hispanics in the country were equally fearful of the migration caravans coming in from Latin America as much as the white majority. Because one, it disrupted their lives and exposed them to racist attacks. And two, illegal migrants were competition for them. Many Latinos who voted for Trump may have carefully considered these issues before making that decision. With the African American community too, there appears to have been a shift, albeit minor. Those Blacks who voted for Trump were basically doing a protest vote against the Democrats, who they felt appeared to lecture them. Every election season, leaders like Barack Obama and Michelle Obama appeal to the Black community, even as Democratic governments did not make their lives any better. At least that was the perception among the pro-Trump Blacks, who voted in hopes that any improvement in the economy under Trump would help them get jobs. 10. Not doing too many debates Trump never appeared too keen to do presidential debates. The only time he debated Joe Biden (he was the 'original' Democratic presidential candidate, remember?), he came out on top, not by his own performance but because of how incoherent the incumbent president sounded. To his credit, Trump was much more calm and collected when he debated Kamala Harris, a far cry from his aggressive ways during the debates with Hillary Clinton in 2016. 11. Concentrating on swing states, and getting shot in one of them Trump concentrated much of his energies on the seven swing states: Georgia, Pennsylvania, Arizona, Nevada, Michigan, Wisconsin and North Carolina. Among these, Georgia and North Carolina with their anti-Black racist history and population dynamics were tough to crack into. Georgia was also the scene of battle of the 2020 election rigging claims by Trump, so it sounded improbable that he would win there. Trump concentrated on these states during his campaign, was shot at in one of them as mentioned earlier, and eventually won or flipped all of them. 12. Appealing to young voters: TikTok generation loved him It might sound improbable, but Trump's non-committal stance on banning TikTok, the Chinese-owned video-sharing platform massively loved by American youth, may have contributed to his appeal among Gen Z. Many TikTokers and TikTok users hated the Biden administration for the ban move. At a desperate moment, Biden himself joined TikTok even amid these moves, but it was far too little, too late. Trump supporters amplified his views and stances on various issues through TikTok as well as other social media apps. 13. Embracing social media, and Elon Musk Trump started Truth Social when his social media accounts, particularly Twitter under the old management, banned his accounts. Over the years, Twitter was taken over by Elon Musk, a 'free-speech absolutist' who did not squirm at any of the white supremacist conspiracies being peddled on the now-rechristened X. Contrary to market pundits' expectations, Truth Social took off massively as the platform to share pro-Trump and Conservative views. When Trump rejected a platform, he created his own. Also read: Donald Trump's interview with Elon Musk on X hit by 'massive' cyberattack Democrats underestimated the fact that half of the electorate was logged on to a non-legacy platform and getting their information from it. Towards the final lap of his campaign, Musk became an open supporter of Trump and addressed his rallies. For Musk, it was a desperate moment, as he feared Harris, if elected, would have folded up X. Add to this the legacy media's unwillingness to endorse Harris, Los Angeles Times and Washington Post being the most prominent examples. 14. Having a lot of money Money speaks in American politics, and having a lot of it is helpful. Trump practically ran most of his campaign out of his own pocket, with the erstwhile mass donors like super PACs not emerging as key players unlike in past elections. Trump's wealth, fuelled mainly by the growth of Truth Social was listed in stock exchanges in March this year and helped bankroll a major part of his campaign, along with some super donors. Clearly, having the richest man in the world Elon Musk by his side may have helped things too. 15. A little bit of help from Democrats Much more than anything Trump did, it was perhaps the disarray and disunity among Democrats and the often incoherent speeches of both its candidates – Biden and Harris – that probably led many undecided voters to cast their ballots in favour of Trump. 'Chaos' was a favourite word of Trump-bashing media during his presidency, but Democrats became the embodiment of that description this election season. The first issue was Biden's insistence on seeking another term despite pressure from his own party, a stark contrast with his public appearances and statements that exposed the weak state of his mind and body. When Kamala Harris was thrust into the campaign, the Democratic primaries had already chosen Biden as their candidate in the primaries. That she did not have to go through the pains of the primaries contest may have alienated even many Democrats, because, let's face it, it ain't fair. In her short and sprightly campaign, Kamala appeared out of touch with the realities of middle-class America, even as she kept on saying she comes from such a family. Her record as a prosecutor who sent many Blacks to jail did not augur well for her campaign either. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

US elections 2024 analysis: How Trump won against Harris - 15 things his campaign got right

Several schools in the Canadian province of Ontario are suing social media platforms Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat for more than $8 billion, according to local media reports on Thursday (Nov 7).

Several schools in the Canadian province of Ontario are suing social media platforms Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat for more than $8 billion, according to local media reports on Thursday (Nov 7). A dozen Ontario boards and two private schools are suing these social media platforms, alleging they have harmed the mental health and well-being of children. Initially, four school boards- Toronto public, Toronto Catholic, Peel public, and Ottawa-Carleton public- filed their cases in March 2023 and sought $4.5 billion. However, the list of schools has now gone up to 14, a report by the Toronto Star on Thursday said. The updated list includes Dufferin-Peel Catholic, York Catholic, Trillium Lakelands, Ottawa Catholic, District School Board of Niagara, Simcoe County, Kawartha Pine Ridge and Rainy River boards, and private religious schools Holy Name of Mary College School, and Eitz Chaim day school. The cases filed against social media platforms As per the Toronto Star report, the 14 schools filed separate but similar cases in Ontario's Superior Court of Justice, alleging Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat rewired the way children "rewired the way children think, behave, and learn," that has cost them (schools) billions in staff supports and resources. Also read | US court okays lawsuits accusing Meta, Google of deploying addiction tactics on teens The schools also called the social media giants to make improvements to their platforms. The report added that the allegations of the schools had not been tested in school, and the social media companies said they would defend the claims. Speaking to the newspaper, a spokesperson from Snapchat said that the app was intentionally designed to be different from traditional social media. "Snapchat opens directly to a camera — rather than a feed of content — and has no traditional public likes or comments," the spokesperson said. Meanwhile, a spokesperson from Meta (representing Facebook and Instagram), told the Toronto Star said that the company wanted to reassure every parent that "we have their interests at heart in the work we’re doing to provide teens with safe, supportive experiences.” Canada orders shutdown of TikTok's business in country The above developments came as Canada ordered TikTok's business in the country to be dissolved, citing national security risks, but added the government was not blocking Canadians' access to the short-video app or their ability to create content. Also read | Canadian government bans TikTok’s business in country, app access continues "The government is taking action to address the specific national security risks related to ByteDance Ltd's operations in Canada through the establishment of TikTok Technology Canada Inc," Innovation Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne said in a statement. (With inputs from agencies)

Schools in Canada's Ontario suing social media platforms for over $8 billion. Here's why

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