Given the breakneck speed at which the TikTok situation is evolving, the landscape may have changed a bit by the time you’re reading this (I pre-scheduled this newsletter on Sunday).

Late Saturday night, TikTok went offline in compliance with a federal law banning the app. After about 14 hours, it was back online Sunday afternoon. NBC News has been posting live updates for those interested.

This little piece, however, is focused on local sentiment. Thursday’s newsletter poll question about TikTok use produced some clear takeaways:

• Okay with the ban: Most respondents do not feel tied to the app, with more than 80% indicating that they never use it.

• Mixed opinions: Those who do use it vary significantly in their habits, from occasional lighthearted video viewers to those seeking connection and even self-professed addicts.

• Losing something vital: For a small but vocal minority, TikTok is far more than an entertainment platform. It’s a key tool for building businesses, fostering creativity and connecting with audiences in ways that other platforms simply don’t offer.

A spectrum of perspectives

A significant number of respondents cited apprehensions about TikTok’s ownership, data practices, content and addictive nature. Comments included:

• “Because it is Chinese-owned, I don’t feel comfortable engaging with it. I don’t want them tracking anything I do.”

• “I’ve seen the hypnotic effect of it (and other social media), and I’m glad I never started using it.”

• “Nonsense, vapid, pointless, boring. I’m too busy for more social media.”

Others seem to have minor concerns, but acknowledge its entertainment value. Some older readers suggested that while they have no interest, they understand that the app is appealing to younger people.

A small but passionate group highlighted TikTok’s importance as a tool for business, learning and creative connection.

Entrepreneurship in action

A few respondents shared how the platform has shaped their livelihoods, expressing deep concerns about what a ban might mean for them and their businesses.

The uncertainty of this period has created difficulties for those who have come to rely on the platform for income — and for discovering and sharing ideas with like-minded individuals.

“Not only do I use TikTok as an influencer, but I also use it for a community of people. Sharing a passion for something with so many people is so special, and that is getting ripped away from me,” one such respondent said. “I also know multiple people that have their own personal shops where TikTok is their main source of income. Now they are scrambling to figure out if they have to close down their small businesses.”

For these users, TikTok represents not just opportunity, but connection, creativity, and the chance to thrive in ways other platforms simply can’t match.

“My feed has been filled with folks tearfully saying goodbye, the future of their businesses and individual ventures a big unknown,” Callahan said. “The repercussions of cutting off this virtual community haven't been considered like they should.”

Hopefully, this shed some light for you on the wide-ranging viewpoints concerning TikTok and the potential impact of a ban — both locally and nationally.

If you want to better understand the Supreme Court’s reasoning in upholding the law, check out this deep dive.

📖 Thanks for reading

Please feel free to reach out to [email protected] with questions or comments.

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