TikTok Challenges U.S. Law Over National Security

TikTok is currently embroiled in a legal battle that could determine its future in the U.S., as a three-judge panel heard arguments regarding a law mandating the app's divestment from its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, by January 19, 2024. TikTok's legal team argues that the law is unconstitutional and infringes on the First Amendment, warning that it could have dire consequences for 170 million American users. The U.S. Department of Justice contends that the law is necessary to mitigate national security risks posed by potential data access from the Chinese government. TikTok's attorney, Andrew Pincus, challenged the government's claims of risk, highlighting the lack of evidence supporting these concerns. The judges appeared skeptical of TikTok's arguments, questioning the practicality of requiring less drastic measures. A ruling from the appeals court is anticipated by December 6, with the possibility for further appeals to the Supreme Court.