Elon Musk Rumored to Acquire TikTok’s U.S. Operations Amid Ban Speculation
A swirling report suggesting that China might sell TikTok’s U.S. operations to Elon Musk has set social media on fire. TikTok, however, has dismissed the claim as “pure fiction.” According to Bloomberg, Chinese officials reportedly explored the possibility of Musk’s X platform acquiring TikTok’s U.S. assets, contingent on a looming January 19 deadline for compliance with U.S. national security demands.
TikTok’s response was swift and categorical. A spokesperson told BBC News, “We can’t be expected to comment on pure fiction,” firmly denying any discussions about a sale.
Social Media Explodes with Reactions
The rumored deal has sparked mixed reactions online. While some users welcomed the idea, one tweeting, “Finally, some good news,” others were more skeptical.
MrBeast joined the chatter humorously, saying, “Okay fine, I’ll buy TikTok so it doesn’t get banned.”
Okay fine, I’ll buy Tik Tok so it doesn’t get banned
— MrBeast (@MrBeast) January 14, 2025
However, dissenting voices also made their stance clear. “We’d rather the app be banned than Elon taking it over,” a user wrote, referencing Musk’s controversial changes to Twitter.
Another commented, “If Elon owns both Twitter and TikTok, that’s it—he’ll own the internet.”
TikTok’s Future in the U.S. Remains Uncertain
National security concerns continue to dominate the debate, with the Biden administration maintaining that TikTok could potentially be used by China for espionage or propaganda. TikTok has repeatedly denied these allegations, arguing that banning the platform would violate First Amendment rights.
Former President Donald Trump, slated to re-enter office on January 20, has added another layer of complexity. Trump reportedly met with TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew in December, fueling speculation about his stance on the app’s future.
Trump’s legal team has also urged the Supreme Court to delay its decision, signaling a preference for political resolutions over outright bans.
Meanwhile, bipartisan support in Congress is building for an extension of the January 19 deadline to allow for further negotiations.
Lawmakers, including Senator Edward Markey and Representative Ro Khanna, have urged the Biden administration to give more time to address the issue, reported the BBC.
As the clock ticks down, TikTok’s future in the U.S. hangs in the balance, with the potential sale to Elon Musk adding a dramatic twist to an already contentious saga.