Trump Open to Elon Musk or Larry Ellison Buying TikTok, Proposes Joint Venture with US Government
Elon Musk to roll out new color coded verification system at Twitter in a week
In a surprising turn of events, former President Donald Trump has expressed openness to Elon Musk or Larry Ellison buying TikTok, a social media app that has been at the center of controversy over its ownership and data privacy practices.
Trump’s comments, made during a recent interview, suggest a potential joint venture with the US government. He stated that if Musk or Ellison were to buy TikTok, he’d want them to give half of the ownership to the US government in exchange for a permit.¹
This proposal marks a significant shift in Trump’s stance on TikTok. In 2020, he sought to ban the app over concerns about its Chinese ownership and potential risks to national security. However, Trump now claims to have developed a “warm spot” for TikTok, crediting the app for helping him connect with young voters during the 2024 elections.
Trump’s change of heart has raised eyebrows, with some speculating that his newfound enthusiasm for TikTok may be linked to his presidential campaign. Others have questioned the feasibility of a joint venture between the US government and a private company like TikTok.
Elon Musk and Larry Ellison: Potential Buyers?
Both Elon Musk and Larry Ellison have been mentioned as potential buyers of TikTok. Musk, the CEO of SpaceX and Tesla, has a history of making bold business moves, while Ellison, the co-founder and CEO of Oracle, has been involved in several high-profile tech deals.
However, it remains to be seen whether either Musk or Ellison is seriously interested in buying TikTok. The app’s valuation is estimated to be around $50 billion, making it a significant investment for any potential buyer.
TikTok’s Future in the US
The future of TikTok in the US remains uncertain. While Trump’s comments suggest a potential path forward for the app, there are still many unanswered questions about its ownership and data privacy practices.
As the situation continues to unfold, one thing is clear: TikTok’s fate will have significant implications for the tech industry and the future of social media in the US.
Donald Trump’s surprise endorsement of Elon Musk or Larry Ellison buying TikTok has added a new twist to the ongoing saga surrounding the social media app. As the situation continues to evolve, it remains to be seen whether TikTok will ultimately find a new home in the US – and what the implications will be for the tech industry and beyond.
