Tag: ioana-monica-dorhoi

• Michael Bloomberg’s Leadership in Climate Action: A Vital Response to U.S. Withdrawal from the Paris Agreement

  The decision of former U.S. President Donald Trump to withdraw the United States from the Paris Agreement and halt international climate funding left a significant gap in global climate leadership. However, Michael Bloomberg, former New York City mayor and U.N. Special Envoy on Climate Ambition, has stepped in to address the void. Through Bloomberg Philanthropies, he has committed to funding the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), ensuring the United States remains engaged in the global fight against climate change despite federal disengagement.

  

  Filling the Financial Gap

  The UNFCCC, the leading U.N. climate body, relies on member contributions for its core budget. Historically, the U.S. has been responsible for around 21% of this budget. Trump’s decision to cut funding threatened to derail the institution’s ability to implement the Paris Agreement and organize critical climate negotiations.

  Bloomberg Philanthropies has pledged to cover the U.S. financial commitment and rally other private and public contributors to ensure the UNFCCC’s work continues unhindered. Bloomberg’s leadership reflects a broader recognition of the critical role non-governmental actors can play in addressing global challenges.

  Empowering Local and State-Level Climate Efforts

  From 2017 to 2020, during Trump’s first withdrawal from the Paris Agreement, states, cities, and businesses across the U.S. mobilized to uphold the nation’s climate commitments. Bloomberg aims to revive this collaborative spirit by working closely with subnational entities and private organizations. This decentralized approach ensures that U.S. climate goals can still be pursued despite federal setbacks.

  A Model of Philanthropic Responsibility

  Bloomberg Philanthropies’ contributions are a testament to the growing importance of philanthropy in tackling global crises. By stepping up where governments fall short, philanthropic organizations demonstrate how public-private partnerships can drive meaningful change. Bloomberg’s previous $4.5 million contribution to the UNFCCC is evidence of his ongoing commitment to climate action.

  Broader Implications

  Bloomberg’s actions also highlight the interconnectedness of climate leadership and diplomacy. As the U.S. federal government retreats from international agreements, private and subnational actors are stepping into roles traditionally reserved for nation-states. This shift underscores the evolving dynamics of global governance in an era of climate urgency.

  Conclusion

  Michael Bloomberg’s intervention underscores the vital role individuals and organizations can play in safeguarding the planet’s future. His proactive stance ensures that the United States, even in the absence of federal leadership, continues to contribute to the global fight against climate change. In doing so, Bloomberg reaffirms a simple yet powerful truth: leadership is not confined to governments—it is the responsibility of all who have the capacity to act.

  January 23, 2025

  climate, climate-change, cop29, environment, ioana-monica-dorhoi, politics

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• Chef José Andrés Addresses Trump’s ‘Dismissal’ After Concluding Term on Sports Council

  Chef José Andrés, renowned humanitarian and founder of World Central Kitchen, publicly responded on Tuesday to former President Donald Trump’s claim that he had been “fired” from the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness & Nutrition. The statement came weeks after Andrés received the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his extensive humanitarian work.

  

  Trump announced the dismissal via social media, listing Andrés alongside three others, asserting that his administration was removing appointees from the previous administration. “Let this serve as Official Notice of Dismissal,” Trump wrote, adding that the appointees were not aligned with his administration’s vision.

  However, Andrés clarified the situation with a lighthearted social media post, stating that his term had already concluded, and he had submitted his resignation prior to Trump’s announcement. “I submitted my resignation last week…my 2-year term was already up,” Andrés wrote, expressing gratitude for his time on the council.

  The celebrated chef highlighted the council’s bipartisan achievements, including a landmark collaboration between the White House and major sports leagues to promote health and sports programs for children. He also urged Trump to prioritize unity over politics. “May God give you the wisdom, Mr. President, to put politics and name-calling aside…and instead lift up the everyday people working to bring America together. Let’s build longer tables,” Andrés added, referencing his personal and professional ethos.

  Honoring a Legacy of Service

  Just weeks before this controversy, Andrés was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Joe Biden. The honor recognized his exceptional contributions to global humanitarian efforts, particularly through World Central Kitchen (WCK), which provides meals to communities facing crises.

  At the ceremony, Andrés honored the colleagues he lost during humanitarian missions, particularly those killed in Israeli airstrikes in Gaza. Reflecting on the moment during his “Longer Tables” podcast, Andrés emphasized the selflessness of his team. “This medal is for you all,” he said.

  WCK, which Andrés founded in 2010, has become a beacon of hope for communities affected by natural disasters and conflicts. From providing meals in war zones to aiding evacuees during California wildfires, the organization exemplifies the spirit of service that earned Andrés the nation’s highest civilian honor.

  A Call for Unity

  Andrés’ response to the dismissal reflects his commitment to bridging divides and focusing on the greater good. His message resonates not just as a call to action for policymakers but as a reminder of the power of compassion and collaboration in addressing shared challenges.

  January 22, 2025

  football, ioana-monica-dorhoi, joe-biden, news, politics, sports

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• Elise Stefanik Testifies in Senate Confirmation Hearing for U.N. Ambassador Role

  On January 21, 2025, Representative Elise Stefanik appeared before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee for her confirmation hearing as U.S. ambassador to the United Nations. During her opening remarks, Stefanik pledged to advance President Donald Trump’s “America First” vision and outlined plans to scrutinize U.S. contributions to the United Nations, emphasizing efficiency and alignment with American interests.

  

  Stefanik acknowledged the U.S.’s position as the largest financial contributor to the U.N., citing the effectiveness of agencies like UNICEF and the World Food Program. However, she stressed the importance of ensuring taxpayer dollars are not used to support entities counterproductive to U.S. objectives or involved in corruption. “Our tax dollars should not be complicit in propping up entities that are counter to American interests, antisemitic, or engaging in fraud, corruption, or terrorism,” she stated.

  Calls for Reform and Alignment of Interests

  The hearing began with strong critiques of the U.N. from Sen. Jim Risch, the committee’s Republican chair, who expressed skepticism about the institution’s current role. He underscored the need for accountability and reform, suggesting that Stefanik could drive significant change.

  Stefanik echoed these sentiments, advocating for reforms to address the veto power wielded by adversaries like Russia and China in the U.N. Security Council. She acknowledged that the U.N. has often fallen short of its founding mission, pledging to champion transparency and efficiency.

  Focus on Key Global Issues

  The confirmation process delved into pressing international concerns, including conflicts in Gaza, Ukraine, and Sudan, as well as nuclear proliferation threats posed by Iran and North Korea. Stefanik underscored her commitment to bolstering alliances, particularly in countering China’s growing influence within the U.N.

  Stefanik’s strong support for Israel was evident throughout her testimony. She highlighted the U.N.’s disproportionate focus on Israel in its resolutions and emphasized her intent to combat antisemitism within the organization. Her stance aligns with her recent efforts to hold institutions accountable for antisemitic incidents, which have earned her praise from Trump and others.

  A Rising Republican Figure

  Stefanik, a Harvard graduate and the fourth-ranking member of the House, has emerged as a key ally of Trump. Her rapid rise in Congress, from being the youngest member of her freshman class to a leadership role in 2021, underscores her political acumen. With extensive experience on defense and intelligence committees, she has also been active in addressing strategic competition with China and strengthening Indo-Pacific ties.

  Her nomination has drawn comparisons to former U.N. ambassador Nikki Haley, reflecting speculation about her potential ambitions for higher office. Some observers, including former national security adviser John Bolton, view this role as a stepping stone for a possible 2028 presidential bid.

  Bipartisan Reception and Challenges Ahead

  While Stefanik faces mixed reactions from Senate Democrats, key members like Sen. John Fetterman and Sen. Jacky Rosen have signaled their support. Rosen, who is Jewish, praised Stefanik’s commitment to addressing bias against Israel at the U.N.

  Stefanik’s confirmation remains a pivotal moment for U.S. foreign policy under Trump’s leadership. If confirmed, she will be tasked with navigating complex international challenges while advancing a vision centered on American interests and global accountability.

  January 21, 2025

  congress, donald-trump, ioana-monica-dorhoi, israel, news, politics, trump

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• Felicitări lui Donald J. Trump: Al 47-lea Președinte al Statelor Unite

  În această zi istorică, 20 ianuarie 2025, îmi exprim sincerele felicitări pentru Donald J. Trump, cu ocazia inaugurării sale ca al 47-lea Președinte al Statelor Unite ale Americii. Această realizare remarcabilă marchează o revenire fără precedent la Casa Albă, evidențiind reziliența și determinarea care au caracterizat parcursul său politic.

  

  Ceremonia de inaugurare, desfășurată în interiorul Rotondei Capitoliului din cauza condițiilor meteorologice nefavorabile, a fost onorată de prezența unei varietăți de personalități, inclusiv foști președinți, lideri din industria tehnologică și membri ai ambelor partide politice majore. În mod deosebit, președintele Joe Biden și vicepreședintele Kamala Harris au fost prezenți, demonstrând tradiția democratică a tranziției pașnice și unității.

  În discursul său inaugural, președintele Trump a proclamat începutul unei „revoluții a bunului-simț,” subliniind angajamentul său de a recâștiga suveranitatea națională, de a restabili siguranța publică și de a asigura o justiție echilibrată. El a detaliat planuri de implementare rapidă a unor ordine executive care vizează securitatea frontierelor, dezvoltarea energetică și încetarea programelor federale de diversitate și incluziune.

  Ceremonia a inclus, de asemenea, momente artistice care au evidențiat mândria și unitatea națională. Cântărețul de muzică country Lee Greenwood a oferit o interpretare emoționantă a piesei „God Bless the USA,” devenită sinonimă cu sărbătorile patriotice.

  Pe măsură ce președintele Trump își începe acest nou mandat, națiunea se află într-un moment crucial, confruntându-se atât cu provocări, cât și cu oportunități. Politicile și inițiativele administrației sale vor modela, fără îndoială, traiectoria Statelor Unite în anii ce urmează. Este un moment în care toți cetățenii sunt chemați să se implice constructiv, să susțină valorile democratice și să lucreze împreună pentru un viitor prosper și unit.

  Odată cu aceste gânduri, felicitări încă o dată președintelui Donald J. Trump pentru această realizare semnificativă. Fie ca liderul său să fie ghidat de înțelepciune, compasiune și un angajament neclintit față de bunăstarea tuturor americanilor.

  January 20, 2025

  donald-trump, educatie, ioana-monica-dorhoi, opinii, politica, romania, stiri

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• Congratulations to Donald J. Trump: The 47th President of the United States

  On this historic day, January 20, 2025, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to President Donald J. Trump on his inauguration as the 47th President of the United States. This remarkable achievement marks an unprecedented return to the White House, underscoring the resilience and determination that have characterized his political journey.

  

  The inauguration ceremony, held indoors at the Capitol Rotunda due to inclement weather, was attended by a diverse array of dignitaries, including former presidents, tech industry leaders, and members of both major political parties. Notably, President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris were present, exemplifying the democratic tradition of peaceful transitions and unity.

  In his inaugural address, President Trump proclaimed the onset of a “revolution of common sense,” emphasizing his commitment to reclaiming national sovereignty, restoring public safety, and ensuring balanced justice. He outlined plans to swiftly implement executive orders focusing on border security, energy development, and the cessation of federal diversity and inclusion programs.

  The ceremony also featured performances that highlighted national pride and unity. Country music artist Lee Greenwood delivered a stirring rendition of “God Bless the USA,” a song that has become synonymous with patriotic celebrations. 

  As President Trump embarks on this new term, the nation stands at a pivotal moment, facing both challenges and opportunities. His administration’s policies and initiatives will undoubtedly shape the trajectory of the United States in the years to come. It is a time for all citizens to engage constructively, uphold democratic values, and work together towards a prosperous and unified future.

  Once again, congratulations to President Donald J. Trump on this significant accomplishment. May his leadership be guided by wisdom, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to the well-being of all Americans.

  January 20, 2025

  donald-trump, ioana-monica-dorhoi, joe-biden, news, politics, trump

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• Președinți americani care au fost învestiți în afara Capitoliului din Washington, D.C.

  Ceremoniile de învestire reprezintă una dintre cele mai importante tradiții din istoria politică a Statelor Unite, simbolizând transferul pașnic de putere. Deși astăzi asociem aceste ceremonii cu treptele Capitoliului din Washington, D.C., drumul până la această tradiție a fost unul plin de schimbări. Multe dintre învestirile timpurii și circumstanțele extraordinare au dus la ceremonii desfășurate departe de locația familiară de astăzi.

  Primele învestiri: înainte ca Washington, D.C. să devină norma

  Când George Washington a depus jurământul ca primul președinte în 1789, Statele Unite nu aveau încă o capitală permanentă. În schimb, Washington a fost învestit pe balconul Federal Hall din New York City. Pentru al doilea mandat, în 1793, ceremonia s-a mutat la Congress Hall din Philadelphia, care era atunci capitala temporară.

  John Adams a urmat exemplul, depunând jurământul tot în Philadelphia. Abia odată cu prima învestire a lui Thomas Jefferson în 1801, ceremonia a avut loc la Washington, D.C., în interiorul Capitoliului, marcând începutul unei tradiții îndelungate.

  Ceremonii de învestire desfășurate în afara Washington-ului

  În ciuda stabilirii capitalei naționale la Washington, circumstanțele extraordinare au dus uneori la ceremonii de învestire în alte locații.

  În 1881, după asasinarea președintelui James Garfield, vicepreședintele Chester A. Arthur a depus jurământul în reședința sa din New York City. În mod similar, după moartea subită a președintelui Warren G. Harding în 1923, Calvin Coolidge a fost învestit la casa familiei sale din Plymouth Notch, Vermont.

  Una dintre cele mai unice ceremonii de învestire a avut loc în 1963, după asasinarea tragică a președintelui John F. Kennedy. Lyndon Baines Johnson a depus jurământul la bordul avionului Air Force One, în Dallas, Texas. Aceasta a fost prima și singura dată când un președinte a fost învestit într-un avion și prima dată când o femeie, judecătoarea Sarah T. Hughes, a administrat jurământul.

  Capitoliul ca scenă simbolică

  Când Jefferson a inițiat tradiția învestirilor la Washington, acestea aveau loc inițial în interior. Totuși, în 1829, învestirea președintelui Andrew Jackson a devenit prima care s-a desfășurat în exterior, pe porticul estic al Capitoliului. Ceremoniile în aer liber au devenit norma, simbolizând deschiderea și accesibilitatea către public.

  De la președinția lui Jackson până la cea a lui Jimmy Carter, în 1977, majoritatea învestirilor au avut loc pe porticul estic. Această tradiție s-a schimbat în 1981, când învestirea președintelui Ronald Reagan s-a mutat pe partea vestică a Capitoliului, oferind o priveliște spectaculoasă asupra National Mall. Partea vestică a devenit standardul de atunci, cu o excepție notabilă: cel de-al doilea mandat al lui Reagan, în 1985. Temperaturile extrem de scăzute au forțat ceremonia să se desfășoare în interior, în Rotonda Capitoliului.

  Provocările legate de vreme

  Vremea a influențat ocazional locația învestirilor. În 1841, învestirea lui William Henry Harrison a avut loc într-o zi extrem de rece din luna martie, iar acesta a rostit cel mai lung discurs inaugural din istorie. Tragic, Harrison a contractat pneumonie și a murit doar o lună mai târziu.

  În mod similar, în 1909, învestirea președintelui William Howard Taft s-a confruntat cu zăpadă abundentă și vânturi puternice, forțând ceremonia să se desfășoare în interior, în Camera Senatului, deși parada a avut loc conform planului.

  O tradiție în continuă evoluție

  Deși majoritatea învestirilor au loc acum pe partea vestică a Capitoliului, istoria arată adaptabilitatea acestei ceremonii. De la balcoane din New York City la case familiale din Vermont și chiar la bordul unui avion, învestirea simbolizează mai mult decât o locație – reprezintă reziliența și continuitatea democrației americane.

  Fiecare locație și circumstanță unică ne amintește de flexibilitatea necesară pentru a menține această tradiție democratică esențială, chiar și în fața tragediilor, intemperiilor sau altor provocări. Evoluția ceremoniilor de învestire este o dovadă a forței durabile a președinției și a națiunii pe care o servește.

  January 19, 2025

  2025, inauguration, ioana-monica-dorhoi, presidential-inauguration, romania, united-states

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• U.S. Presidents Inaugurated Outside the Capitol in Washington, D.C.

  Inauguration ceremonies are among the most significant traditions in U.S. political history, symbolizing the peaceful transfer of power. While today we associate these ceremonies with the steps of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., the journey to this tradition has been far from straightforward. Many early inaugurations and extraordinary circumstances have led to swearing-in ceremonies far from the now-familiar location.

  Early Inaugurations: Before Washington, D.C. Became the Norm

  When George Washington took the oath of office as the first president in 1789, the United States did not yet have a permanent capital. Instead, Washington was sworn in on the balcony of Federal Hall in New York City. For his second term in 1793, the ceremony moved to Philadelphia’s Congress Hall, as Philadelphia was the temporary capital.

  John Adams followed suit, taking his oath in Philadelphia. It wasn’t until Thomas Jefferson’s first inauguration in 1801 that the ceremony was held in Washington, D.C. Jefferson’s swearing-in took place inside the Capitol, marking the beginning of a long-standing tradition.

  Inaugurations Held Outside Washington, D.C.

  Despite the establishment of Washington, D.C. as the nation’s capital, extraordinary circumstances occasionally led to presidential inaugurations outside the city.

  In 1881, following the assassination of President James Garfield, Vice President Chester A. Arthur took the oath of office in his New York City residence. Similarly, after President Warren G. Harding’s sudden death in 1923, Calvin Coolidge was sworn in at his family home in Plymouth Notch, Vermont.

  One of the most unique swearing-in ceremonies occurred in 1963 after the tragic assassination of President John F. Kennedy. Lyndon Baines Johnson took the oath aboard Air Force One in Dallas, Texas. This marked the first and only time a president was inaugurated on an airplane and the first time a woman, Judge Sarah T. Hughes, administered the oath of office.

  The Capitol as a Symbolic Stage

  When Jefferson initiated the tradition of inaugurations in Washington, they initially took place indoors. However, in 1829, President Andrew Jackson’s inauguration became the first to be held outside on the Capitol’s east portico. Outdoor ceremonies became the norm, symbolizing openness and accessibility to the public.

  From Jackson’s presidency until Jimmy Carter’s in 1977, most inaugurations occurred on the east portico. This tradition shifted in 1981 when President Ronald Reagan’s swearing-in moved to the west front of the Capitol, offering a picturesque view of the National Mall. The west front has remained the standard location ever since, with one notable exception: Reagan’s second inauguration in 1985. Bitterly cold temperatures forced the ceremony indoors to the Capitol Rotunda.

  Weather-Related Challenges

  Weather has occasionally dictated the location of inaugurations. William Henry Harrison’s 1841 inauguration, held on a freezing March day, included the longest inaugural address in history. Tragically, Harrison contracted pneumonia and died just one month later.

  Similarly, in 1909, President William Howard Taft’s inauguration faced heavy snow and strong winds, forcing the ceremony indoors to the Senate Chamber, though the parade proceeded as planned.

  A Tradition That Evolves

  While most inaugurations now occur on the west front of the Capitol, history shows the adaptability of this ceremony. From balconies in New York City to family homes in Vermont, and even aboard an airplane, the inauguration represents more than just location—it symbolizes the resilience and continuity of American democracy.

  Each unique venue and circumstance reminds us of the flexibility required to uphold this critical democratic tradition, even in the face of tragedy, weather, or other challenges. The evolution of inaugural ceremonies is a testament to the enduring strength of the presidency and the nation it serves.

  January 19, 2025

  history, ioana-monica-dorhoi, news, politics, presidential-inauguration, travel, trump, us-president

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• TikTok se închide în SUA odată cu intrarea în vigoare a legii „Divest-or-Ban”

  Washington, D.C. – 19 ianuarie 2025

  TikTok și-a încetat oficial operațiunile în Statele Unite, închizând voluntar accesul utilizatorilor americani la platformă. Această decizie dramatică vine după ce Curtea Supremă a confirmat o lege federală care impune companiei-mamă chineze, ByteDance, să renunțe la proprietatea asupra aplicației sau să se confrunte cu o interdicție națională.

  

  Legea, adoptată de Congres în 2024, a stabilit ca termen limită data de 19 ianuarie 2025 pentru ca ByteDance să își vândă participația în TikTok, în caz contrar riscând eliminarea aplicației din magazinele digitale și serviciile de găzduire din SUA. ByteDance a argumentat că o vânzare nu este fezabilă și a contestat legea în instanță, dar Curtea Supremă a respins în unanimitate cererea vineri. Instanța a decis că legea nu încalcă drepturile la liberă exprimare ale TikTok sau ale celor 170 de milioane de utilizatori din SUA, fiind de acord cu preocupările guvernului că aplicația reprezintă o amenințare la securitatea națională din cauza potențialului de partajare a datelor cu China.

  TikTok preîntâmpină aplicarea legii

  Deși administrația Biden a transferat responsabilitatea aplicării legii către viitoarea administrație Trump, TikTok a luat măsuri anticipative și s-a deconectat înainte de termenul limită, la miezul nopții de duminică. Sâmbătă seara târziu, utilizatorii americani care au încercat să acceseze aplicația au fost întâmpinați cu un mesaj dur:

  “Ne pare rău, TikTok nu este disponibil în acest moment. O lege care interzice TikTok a fost adoptată în SUA. Din păcate, aceasta înseamnă că nu puteți folosi TikTok deocamdată. Suntem norocoși că președintele Trump a indicat că va colabora cu noi pentru a găsi o soluție de reinstalare a TikTok odată ce își va prelua mandatul. Rămâneți conectați!”

  În același timp, aplicația a fost eliminată din magazinele Apple și Google Play, întrerupând descărcările noi și actualizările.

  Conflict cu Casa Albă

  TikTok a avertizat vineri că va fi “forțată să se închidă” dacă administrația Biden nu oferă asigurări că legea nu va fi aplicată. Cu toate acestea, Casa Albă a respins apelul ca fiind o “manipulare” și a încurajat compania să abordeze preocupările cu următoarea administrație.

  În ciuda acestor evoluții, viitorul TikTok în SUA rămâne incert. Președintele Trump a sugerat posibilitatea unor negocieri pentru reinstalarea aplicației, lăsând milioane de utilizatori și creatori de conținut în suspans.

  Implicații pentru utilizatori și securitatea națională

  Închiderea aplicației marchează un punct de cotitură în relațiile SUA-China, reflectând preocupările tot mai mari legate de riscurile de securitate asociate platformelor deținute de companii străine. Guvernul susține că TikTok ar putea permite colectarea masivă de date de către guvernul chinez, punând în pericol informații sensibile despre cetățenii americani.

  Deocamdată, baza uriașă de utilizatori TikTok din SUA a rămas fără platformă, iar creatorii se confruntă cu o oprire bruscă a conținutului și a veniturilor. Închiderea aplicației stabilește, de asemenea, un precedent pentru modul în care companiile de tehnologie cu legături străine ar putea fi tratate pe viitor în SUA.

  Pe măsură ce administrația Trump se pregătește să preia mandatul, industria tehnologică, utilizatorii și factorii de decizie vor urmări îndeaproape dacă se poate ajunge la o soluție sau dacă absența TikTok devine permanentă.

  January 19, 2025

  2024, dezvoltare-personala, educatie, ioana-monica-dorhoi, romania, stiri, united-states

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• TikTok Goes Dark in the U.S. as Divest-or-Ban Law Takes Effect

  Washington, D.C. – January 19, 2025

  TikTok has officially ceased its operations in the United States, voluntarily shutting down access to its platform for tens of millions of American users. This dramatic move follows a Supreme Court ruling that upheld a federal law mandating the company’s Chinese parent, ByteDance, to divest its ownership of the app or face a nationwide ban.

  

  The law, passed by Congress in 2024, set a deadline of January 19, 2025, for ByteDance to either sell its stake in TikTok or risk removal from U.S. app stores and hosting services. ByteDance argued that a sale was not feasible and mounted a legal challenge, which was unanimously dismissed by the Supreme Court on Friday. The court ruled that the law did not infringe on the free speech rights of TikTok or its 170 million U.S. users, aligning with government concerns that the app posed a significant national security threat due to potential data sharing with China.

  TikTok Preempts Enforcement

  Although the Biden administration deferred enforcement of the law to the incoming Trump administration, TikTok preemptively took itself offline before the midnight deadline on Sunday. Late Saturday night, U.S. users attempting to access the app were met with a stark message:

  “Sorry, TikTok isn’t available right now. A law banning TikTok has been enacted in the U.S. Unfortunately, that means you can’t use TikTok for now. We are fortunate that President Trump has indicated that he will work with us on a solution to reinstate TikTok once he takes office. Please stay tuned!”

  Simultaneously, the app was removed from the Apple and Google Play stores, effectively cutting off new downloads and updates.

  A Standoff with the White House

  TikTok’s Friday statement warned it would “be forced to go dark” if no assurance was given by the Biden administration to prevent enforcement of the law. However, the White House dismissed the appeal as a “stunt” and urged the company to address its concerns with the next administration.

  Despite these developments, TikTok’s future in the U.S. remains uncertain. President Trump has hinted at potential negotiations to reinstate the app, leaving millions of users and creators in limbo.

  Implications for Users and National Security

  The app’s shutdown marks a significant turning point in U.S.-China relations, as the ban reflects heightened concerns over the security risks posed by foreign-owned platforms. The government contends that TikTok could enable mass data collection by the Chinese government, endangering sensitive information on U.S. citizens.

  For now, TikTok’s massive U.S. user base has been left without a platform, and its creators face a sudden halt to their content and revenue streams. The app’s shutdown also sets a precedent for how future tech companies with foreign ties might be treated under U.S. law.

  As the Trump administration prepares to take office, the tech industry, users, and policymakers will closely watch whether a resolution can be reached or if TikTok’s absence becomes permanent.

  January 19, 2025

  china, ioana-monica-dorhoi, news, social-media, technology, tiktok, united-states

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• Trump-Vance Inauguration Committee Official Schedule of Events in Washington DC

  Saturday, January 18, 2025

  The President’s Reception and Fireworks Hosted in Trump Sterling, this event will kick off the inauguration celebrations with a grand reception followed by a spectacular fireworks display. Attendees can expect an evening of festivities honoring the incoming administration.

  Cabinet Reception and Vice President’s Dinner This exclusive gathering will provide an opportunity for members of the incoming Cabinet and the Vice President’s team to celebrate together, fostering camaraderie and unity ahead of the new administration’s term.

  ---

  Sunday, January 19, 2025

  Arlington National Cemetery Ceremony A solemn wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier will honor the sacrifices of America’s service members. This tradition underscores the administration’s commitment to the nation’s military and veterans.

  Make America Great Again Victory Rally President Donald J. Trump will deliver remarks at this rally, energizing supporters and celebrating the achievements of the campaign.

  Candlelight Dinner This elegant event will feature President Trump delivering remarks, sharing his vision for the upcoming term, and thanking key supporters and dignitaries for their roles in the administration’s success.

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  Monday, January 20, 2025

  St. John’s Church Service In keeping with tradition, the day will begin with a service at St. John’s Church, often referred to as the “Church of the Presidents.”

  Tea at the White House Before the swearing-in ceremony, the incoming and outgoing Presidents and their families will meet at the White House for tea, symbolizing the peaceful transfer of power.

  Swearing-In Ceremony Taking place at the U.S. Capitol, the swearing-in ceremony will mark the formal beginning of Donald J. Trump’s second term as President of the United States, with Senator J.D. Vance as Vice President. Key dignitaries, members of Congress, and thousands of attendees will witness this historic event.

  Farewell to the Former President and Vice President A departure ceremony at the Capitol will honor the outgoing President and Vice President, acknowledging their service to the nation.

  The President’s Signing Room Ceremony Following the swearing-in, President Trump will participate in a ceremonial signing of key documents, marking the administration’s initial actions.

  JCCIC Congressional Luncheon The Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies (JCCIC) will host a luncheon for the President, Vice President, and key Congressional leaders.

  The President’s Review of the Troops President Trump will conduct a review of the troops, reaffirming his role as Commander in Chief and honoring the armed forces.

  Presidential Parade A celebratory parade along Pennsylvania Avenue will feature floats, marching bands, and participants from across the nation, showcasing America’s diverse culture and unity.

  Oval Office Signing Ceremony In the Oval Office, President Trump will sign executive orders, setting the tone for the administration’s priorities.

  Commander in Chief Ball This prestigious event will honor members of the armed forces, with President Trump delivering remarks.

  Liberty Inaugural Ball Celebrating liberty and democracy, this ball will include a speech from President Trump highlighting the administration’s goals.

  Starlight Ball The final ball of the evening will feature President Trump’s remarks, expressing gratitude to supporters and outlining his vision for the nation.

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  Tuesday, January 21, 2025

  National Prayer Service Concluding the inaugural events, the National Prayer Service will be held to seek blessings for the administration and the nation’s future, emphasizing unity and faith.

  January 18, 2025

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