Trump’s ‘Save TikTok’ Pledge Ignites Outrage and Debate Among Supporters
(Source: AAP, Getty)
Following the sudden closure of TikTok late Saturday night, President-elect Donald Trump took to his Truth Social account to express his support for the beleaguered platform, reigniting debate over its future.
Shortly after TikTok’s self-imposed shutdown, users were greeted with a message on the platform stating, “Sorry, TikTok isn’t available right now.” The message continued, “We are fortunate that President Trump has indicated that he will work with us on a solution to reinstate TikTok once he takes office. Please stay tuned!”
Trump responded in kind on Truth Social, simply posting: “SAVE TIKTOK!” However, not all of Trump’s supporters echoed his enthusiasm. Concerns over TikTok’s connections to China dominated responses, with many emphasizing national security over saving the app, told NBC News.
T.W. Fuller, who describes himself as a conservative, commented, “Save America first, then we can worry about what happens to TikTok. But if TikTok is to be saved, make it American-owned, and make it safe for everyone who uses it.”
Rich Rhonda, whose bio reads “Jesus is my King. Trump is my President,” added, “Only if China doesn’t own it, I don’t want them to steal my information.” Others voiced stronger opposition to any plans to revive TikTok. CedarRockSC urged, “Please enforce the law. No mercy for TikTok. Red book, Lemon8, etc., should be banned or forced to divest also.”
Critics were quick to accuse Trump of compromising his stance on China. GiaB, a vocal critic of Kamala Harris, alleged, “That tells the American people you’re kissing Chinese ass!” Speculation over Trump’s intentions was rampant. Kristine.Thomas11 asked, “Was @realDonaldTrump hacked?” Meanwhile, ChiefO, whose profile features an image of Trump pumping his fist, raged, “LET TIKTOK BURN TO HELL IF CCP is NOT selling to USA Investors.
TIKTOK IS AN EVIL DATA COLLECTION APP DESIGNED TO DESTROY THE MIND & SOUL OF USA IDIOTS THAT USE IT!” Others framed the issue as a broader constitutional concern. Constitutional Conservative cinciclone declared, “It’s not TikTok that needs saved… IT’S THE CONSTITUTION!!!”
The debate over TikTok’s future underscores the tension between Trump’s apparent willingness to work with the platform and concerns over its ownership and data practices. As Trump prepares to take office, his pledge to “SAVE TIKTOK!” has sparked both hope and outrage among his supporters.
