Donald Trump and Elon Musk : Discover how this unexpected duo could change the future of TikTok in the United States. A bold solution to the ban!
TikTok's future in the United States seems to be hanging by a thread, and that thread could well be held by two iconic figures of modern America: Donald Trump and Elon Musk. As the Chinese social network faces an imminent ban on American soil, an unexpected scenario is looming. Donald Trump, former president of the United States, has expressed support for the idea that Elon Musk, the billionaire head of Tesla, SpaceX, and X (formerly Twitter), could acquire TikTok to give it a new lease on life. What's behind this surprising proposal?
A ban looms over TikTok
TikTok, the Chinese app that is hugely popular with younger generations, has long been the subject of criticism and controversy in the United States. Concerns have focused on the security of American users’ data and the possibility that this information could be accessed by the Chinese government. In response, a law passed by Congress in 2024 requires TikTok’s parent company ByteDance to sell its American operations or face a complete ban.
Donald Trump, who had already tried to ban TikTok during his first term, has this time signed an executive order suspending the application of this law for 75 days. This delay is intended to allow stakeholders to find a viable solution, and Elon Musk could well be at the heart of this solution.
Donald Trump and Elon Musk: an unexpected alliance
At first glance, Donald Trump and Elon Musk have little in common. One is a former president known for his controversial views and populist approach, while the other is a visionary entrepreneur known for his innovations in electric cars, space exploration, and social media. Yet Trump has publicly supported the idea of Musk buying TikTok, going so far as to say he would be “open to it.”
This proposal is based on economic and strategic logic. Elon Musk, with his success in managing complex technology companies, could offer TikTok a new direction, far from Chinese influence. In addition, its network of investors and its ability to raise funds make it a serious candidate for such a takeover.
Financial and political stakes
Aside from the security concerns, banning TikTok would have significant economic consequences. With over 170 million users in the United States, the app generates huge advertising revenue and supports an ecosystem of influencers and content creatorsTrump's idea of asking ByteDance to "give half to the United States" in exchange for a "license" underscores TikTok's economic importance.
However, the request raises legal and diplomatic questions. Would ByteDance be willing to divest a significant portion of its business to comply with U.S. law? And would China, often reluctant to allow the sale of strategic technology assets, approve such a deal?
Elon Musk: a potential savior
Elon Musk is often seen as a visionary who can tackle the most complex challenges. While the idea of him buying TikTok may seem audacious, it is far from far-fetched. Musk has a track record of turning around struggling companies, including Tesla and, more recently, X.
As a potential owner, Musk could use TikTok to diversify his portfolio of companies while strengthening his influence in the social media space. Moreover, an acquisition of this magnitude could be seen as a way to challenge the hegemony of big tech companies like Meta and Google.
International reactions
The possibility of Elon Musk buying TikTok has also sparked mixed reactions internationally. While some see the move as an opportunity for TikTok to remain operational in the United States, others fear it could create new tensions between Washington and Beijing. In China, the idea that TikTok could be controlled by an American entity is seen as a loss of technological sovereignty.
What you need to remember
Donald Trump and Elon Musk, two iconic but different figures, could play a key role in TikTok’s future in the United States. With the app facing major legal and economic challenges, a Musk acquisition could be a bold and effective solution. However, many hurdles – diplomatic, financial and strategic – remain to be overcome before this scenario becomes a reality.
And you, what do you think about this possibility? Is Elon Musk the best option to save TikTok? Share your opinion and discover our other articles on the challenges of social networks and technology.