TikTok ban timeline: Here's where things stand

A deadline looms for TikTok's sale or ban in the US, potentially concluding a long legal battle. The Supreme Court is expected to rule, likely upholding the law despite President Trump's request for a delay. The law mandates ByteDance, TikTok's parent company, to sell or shut down US operations. TikTok and users challenged the law, citing First Amendment violations. Congress argued the law is necessary due to national security concerns related to ByteDance's Chinese ownership and data access. The Supreme Court heard arguments and seemed inclined to uphold the law, emphasizing ByteDance's lack of First Amendment rights. A federal appeals court previously ruled the law constitutional, setting the stage for the Supreme Court's decision. Despite Trump's late appeal for a pause, the court is unlikely to intervene. The case highlights concerns over data security and potential Chinese government influence. The situation involves a complex interplay between national security, free speech, and the future of a popular social media platform in the United States.