**Trump Takes Steps to Secure TikTok for Americans with New Executive Order**
In a bold move that has many talking, former President Donald Trump recently signed an executive order designed to ensure TikTok, the beloved social media app filled with dance challenges and quirky videos, is finally in American hands. On Thursday, in the iconic Oval Office, Trump put his signature on a deal that promises to transition TikTok’s ownership from its Chinese roots to a group of wealthy American investors, all of whom happen to be loyal supporters of the former president. Who knew that scrolling through dance videos could lead to a study in international relations?
Vice President JD Vance chimed in at the signing ceremony, reassuring American TikTok users that this new structure would allow them to use the app “with more confidence” than before. His remarks were a nod to the ongoing national security worries that have haunted TikTok ever since it burst into the social media scene like a viral dance trend. The app had faced stern scrutiny due to its Chinese ownership, which some fear could lead to data mishaps and unwanted spying. Vance emphasized that, under this new deal, American users could feel safer knowing their data would be better protected.
As part of the agreement, a sizeable shift in governance is on the horizon. American interests will helm six of the seven board seats for TikTok’s U.S. operations. In a move aimed at reinforcing data security, the tech giant Oracle, under the leadership of billionaire Larry Ellison, will take charge of TikTok’s data handling. This means that all user data will be stored securely on U.S. soil, leaving potential Chinese access at the door—no more uninvited guests at the data party.
The backdrop to this executive order is crucial. Last year, current President Joe Biden instituted a ban on TikTok due to growing bipartisan concerns about user data safety and its alleged ties to the Chinese government. The Supreme Court backed this ban, positioning national security as a top priority. However, Trump’s administration has been busy working on a plan that could make TikTok a more American app, ensuring that Bytedance, the company that owns TikTok, will have to divest from it or face an outright ban. It seems irony is alive and well in Washington, as Trump had extended deadlines for Bytedance more than once, keeping the hopes of TikTok fans afloat.
According to reports, the new ownership structure will see American firms Oracle and Silverlake, along with the Abu Dhabi investment firm MGX, hold a collective 45% stake in TikTok, while Bytedance retains a 20% share. Among the investors are notable figures like media mogul Rupert Murdoch and Dell’s own CEO, Michael Dell. These are not just any investors; they are prominent players that hint at the potential influence and direction of TikTok in the future.
Trump expressed optimism about the deal, even thanking Chinese President Xi Jinping for approving the agreement during a recent conversation. While Xi’s team didn’t confirm the plan with quite the same enthusiasm, both sides appear to be working toward a resolution. As Vance noted, the deal values TikTok at a staggering $14 billion—a price tag that reflects its cultural significance as well as its commercial potential. As details continue to roll out, the nation awaits more information, ensuring that the saga of TikTok remains as entertaining as the countless TikTok videos themselves. The only question left is, will it all be smooth sailing, or will we witness a few more twists and turns in this blockbuster deal?
