President-elect Donald Trump's team is exploring ways to keep TikTok accessible to American users while ensuring data protection, even as legal challenges to the platform continue. Representative Mike Waltz (R-FL), Trump's national security adviser nominee, indicated the incoming administration's intention to find a solution that balances TikTok's popularity with national security considerations.

In a recent interview, Waltz highlighted Trump's recognition of TikTok as a valuable communication platform for many Americans, including during his own campaign. He emphasized the administration's commitment to safeguarding user data while navigating the legal landscape surrounding the app's Chinese ownership. Transition spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt reinforced this message, underscoring Trump's deal-making abilities as key to finding a resolution.

The Supreme Court is currently considering a case related to a law requiring TikTok to separate from its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, or face removal from US app stores. Trump's legal team has advocated for postponing any potential ban until after his inauguration. This legal battle centers on the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, signed by President Biden, which aims to address national security concerns linked to foreign-owned apps.

With an estimated 170 million American users, TikTok's fate has significant implications. Despite previous attempts to restrict the app, Trump acknowledged its effectiveness in reaching younger voters during the 2024 campaign. The incoming administration's approach seeks to reconcile these competing factors: maintaining access to a popular platform while mitigating potential security risks.