In a dramatic intervention that could determine the future of one of the world's most popular social media platforms, former President Donald Trump has declared he would ban TikTok in the United States unless the app becomes wholly owned by an American tech giant.
The Presidential Ultimatum
Speaking exclusively to reporters, Trump revealed his firm stance: "If we're going to allow TikTok to continue operating in our country, it needs to be completely controlled by an American company. I won't settle for anything less than 100% US ownership."
The former president's comments come as he positions himself as the decisive voice in the ongoing TikTok ownership saga, despite no longer holding office.
Rejecting the Oracle Compromise
Trump specifically criticised the previously proposed arrangement involving Oracle Corporation taking a minority stake in TikTok's US operations. "The Oracle deal wasn't good enough," he stated emphatically. "We need full control, not some technical partnership that leaves the Chinese with influence."
His remarks suggest a complete rejection of the complex ownership structure that had been negotiated during his administration, where Oracle would have become TikTok's "trusted technology partner" without obtaining majority ownership.
Security Concerns Take Centre Stage
The former president echoed longstanding national security concerns that have plagued TikTok's relationship with US authorities. "We cannot have an app with ties to the Chinese Communist Party collecting data on millions of American children," Trump warned.
He emphasised that his position stems from genuine security apprehensions rather than political posturing, though critics have questioned the timing of his renewed focus on the issue.
Political Implications and Bipartisan Support
Trump's hardline stance places him at odds with some Republican colleagues while finding unlikely allies among Democratic lawmakers who have similarly advocated for TikTok's divestiture from Chinese ownership.
The former president appeared aware of the political dimensions, noting that his position demonstrates his consistent approach to China-related security matters. "I was tough on China then, and I'm tough on China now," he asserted.
What Comes Next?
With Trump's unambiguous declaration, pressure mounts on TikTok's parent company ByteDance to either find an American buyer willing to purchase the entire operation or face the prospect of being shut out of the valuable US market.
The announcement also signals that TikTok's ownership will likely remain a contentious issue in American politics, with the former president ensuring it stays in the spotlight as the 2024 election cycle approaches.
