TikTok’s Fate in the US May Hinge on Elon Musk’s Mediation

The future of TikTok in the US, which faces a potential ban on January 19, has taken an unexpected turn for the better thanks to Elon Musk’s intervention.

According to The Wall Street Journal, TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew recently met with Musk to discuss a range of topics, including the technological policy direction of Donald Trump’s incoming administration. While specific strategies to keep TikTok operational in the US were not addressed, the meeting could prove pivotal for ByteDance, the app’s parent company.

Musk, who owns rival platform X (formerly Twitter), wields considerable political influence in the US. He has donated over $100 million to Trump’s campaign, frequently engages with foreign leaders, and attends high-profile events featuring the former president. Just last week, Trump was present at the launch of SpaceX’s Starship, underscoring their close ties.

ByteDance is under pressure to sell TikTok or face a nationwide ban under legislation signed by President Joe Biden. However, Trump, who previously sought to ban TikTok during his presidency, now opposes the law. Reports suggest Trump may block attempts to ban TikTok altogether or help facilitate a sale to an American buyer.

In the meantime, TikTok is exploring ways to retain its 170-million-strong US user base. Musk’s intervention and his political connections could offer ByteDance a lifeline for negotiating a favorable deal. Nevertheless, TikTok’s future remains uncertain, particularly given Beijing’s likely resistance to transferring control of the platform to American hands.