Elon Must /Photo courtesy/
Emerging reports are suggesting that China is considering selling Tktok’s U.S. operations to Elon Musk as a convenient strategy to prevent a potential ban on the App set to take effect in January 19
This comes as surprise to many because Beijing officials have always been known for their strong preference for Tiktok to remain under ByteDance’s ownership but the future of the app may be beyond ByteDance influence due to China ‘golden share’ in the company which U.S lawmakers claim allows Government interference, and selling it might be a way to navigate future relations with the incoming administration.
According to the leaked reports, Chinese officials have begun to debate on contigency plans for Tiktok as a part of an expansive discussion on how to work Donald Trump’s administration, one which also involves Musk.
However, Tiktok spokesperson has labelled all these circulating reports as ”pure fiction” and emphasized that China’s stake does not impact its global operation outside China
Elon Musk has not said anything yet concerning the speculations,but his past post in regards to the ban is an indication that he is against it
“In my 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. It is not what America stands for.” He wrote on X
President Trump also made it clear in his legal brief that he opposes banning Tiktok and wants to seek resolution through political means. This comes after he met with Tiktok’s CEO, Shou Zi Chew at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida last month. Trump also previously asked the court to delay the Tiktok ruling until after his inauguration on January 20 so that he can be in a position to address the matter
President Joe Biden who initiated the ban has an option of extending the deadline to 90 days if he believes ByteDance is making progress towards selling it to US operations,but it’s unclear If the company will meet the requirements. Also, the Biden administration is arguing that without the sale, China could use Tiktok as a tool to spy on Americans or influence US politics
All these speculations have ignited different reactions from the American Civilians.
“There is little regard for users or businesses in this scenario. Letting Musk buy Tiktok is not the ideal solution- but it’s a compromise- and a kick in the teeth for those pushing the ban.” James wood wrote on X
“I thank God Elon Musk is not supporting Tiktok’s ban.” Tabby thales added
Besides the positive comments towards Musk acquiring Tiktok,some of them could not hide their dissatisfaction and said that Musk will take Tiktok down the same lane that he did with Twitter and ultimately ruin it.
“If they giving Elon Musk Tiktok,just ban it.” K commented
“Elon Musk got them threatening to ban Tiktok just so he can buy it, ain’t that sum shit.” Lil Jay added
Senator Edward Markey who argued that banning the app would impact millions of Americans who rely on the app for social connections and Economic livelihood has introduced a new bill to delay the deadline by an additional 270 days.
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