Trump admin ends ban on TikTok for government devices

The social media app, formerly owned by the Chinese firm ByteDance, has long attracted scrutiny over potential security risks.

Published: August 11, 2026 4:22pm

The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) on Tuesday ended a ban on downloading TikTok on government devices.

The social media app, formerly owned by the Chinese firm ByteDance, has long attracted scrutiny over potential security risks. President Donald Trump attempted to ban the app in his first term, but ultimately pressured ByteDance into a sale last year.

"Pursuant to the Opinion of the Office of Legal Counsel issued on July 17, 2026, TikTok is no longer a "covered application" for purposes of the No TikTok on Government Devices Act," read a memo from OMB Director Russ Vought.

The popular social media app focuses on short videos and is particularly popular with Gen Z. Some lawmakers have embraced its use to reach younger voters as well.

Ben Whedon is the Chief Political Correspondent for Just the News. Follow him on X.

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