Billionaire Elon Musk’s potential bid to acquire TikTok has raised eyebrows, especially given his track record of shaking up the tech industry and latest role in the incoming Trump administration. With concerns over the app’s ties to China and its influence on American users, Musk’s acquisition could offer a chance to seize control from foreign influence and safeguard user privacy. However, while many applaud Musk’s boldness in tackling big tech, questions remain about whether his vision for TikTok aligns with broader American interests, particularly regarding national security and free speech. As the debate continues, Americans are watching closely to see if Musk can deliver on his promise of reshaping platforms for the better.
According to Bloomberg, several sources say the Chinese-owned social media app is considering selling the platform to Musk, who purchased Twitter in 2022.
TikTok could be banned in the United States unless it is sold to an American company by July 19. A bipartisan bill to prohibit the app passed quickly in both chambers of Congress, driven by concerns over national security, data privacy, and other issues associated with its Chinese ownership.
TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, is appealing the ban to the U.S. Supreme Court. However, during oral arguments on January 10, Supreme Court justices indicated they would likely uphold the law. As a result, the Chinese government has reportedly developed "contingency plans" for the social media platform as part of a broader strategy to work with the second Trump administration.
In April 2024, Musk voiced his thoughts on an early consideration to ban the app, saying that in his opinion, “TikTok should not be banned in the USA.”
“Even though such a ban may benefit the X platform. Doing so would be contrary to freedom of speech and expression,” he wrote on X.
According to Forbes, Musk could buy TikTok for $40 billion to $50 billion. In comparison, Musk bought then-known as Twitter for $44 billion.
However, a TikTok spokesperson dismissed the idea of Musk buying its platform, calling it “pure fiction.”