In the week leading up to the impending TikTok deal deadline, President Donald Trump expressed optimism that his administration could negotiate an agreement with ByteDance, the parent company of the popular social media app based in China. Trump, speaking to the media on Air Force One, emphasized the significant interest in TikTok and his desire to see it continue operating. He mentioned the presence of several potential buyers for the platform.

The President also hinted at ongoing discussions with China regarding TikTok, suggesting that the Chinese government might have a stake in the app. Trump even raised the possibility of reducing tariffs on China in exchange for their approval of TikTok's U.S. operations sale. Questions regarding TikTok's future arose when a law mandating ByteDance's divestment was enacted in January, with a deadline set for April 5 following an executive order signed by Trump granting a 75-day reprieve.

Despite previous attempts to ban TikTok on national security grounds (which were legally challenged), Trump's stance shifted during the past election due to the app's alleged impact on engaging young voters. He revealed that he believes TikTok played a significant role in his success among young voters. Trump proposed potential terms for a TikTok deal, including a scenario where the U.S. would have a 50% stake in a joint venture, though specifics of such an arrangement remain undisclosed.

As the April 5 deadline nears, it remains uncertain whether TikTok will be divested to an approved buyer or face nationwide prohibition once more. Trump has hinted at the possibility of extending the deadline if necessary. TikTok and ByteDance have remained silent on the negotiations, and it is unclear if ByteDance has reconsidered its stance against selling TikTok. The uncertainty surrounding the situation intensified after the Supreme Court upheld the law mandating ByteDance's divestment, causing TikTok to temporarily cease operations in the U.S. before Trump intervened to delay the ban.