U.S. President Donald Trump has thrown his support behind ongoing talks between Microsoft and TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, over the fate of the app’s American operations. “I would say yes,” Trump told reporters when asked about the potential deal, calling TikTok a platform with “great interest” stateside. His comments come as multiple players, from tech startups to billionaires, scramble for a piece of the viral video platform’s U.S. business.
TikTok, used by more than 170 million Americans, isn’t short of suitors. Alongside Microsoft, AI firm Perplexity has tossed its hat into the ring with a merger proposal. Frank McCourt, the ex-owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers, also made a play earlier this month to buy the app. Microsoft and Oracle reportedly explored similar moves back in 2020, when Trump first threatened to ban TikTok unless ByteDance sold its U.S. arm. So far, Microsoft hasn’t publicly confirmed its latest role in the drama.
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From Ban to Bargaining
Trump’s stance on TikTok has shifted noticeably. Earlier this year, he pushed for an outright ban, citing fears over Chinese data access. But during a recent speech in Florida, he struck a different tone, hinting at backroom negotiations. Analysts suggest the app’s flood of pro-Trump content—and its massive user base—might explain the pivot. “China won’t be involved,” Trump assured supporters, stressing that any deal would keep TikTok’s operations Stateside.
Bidding War Heats Up
The White House has handed ByteDance a 75-day window to finalize a sale, delaying a law that would force TikTok to sever ties with China. Trump, never one to shy from dealmaking, seems to relish the competition. “I like bidding wars,” he quipped, “because you make your best deal.” His remarks signal the door remains open for new offers, though it’s anyone’s guess who’ll clinch the app.
Also Read: TikTok Ban on Hold: Trump’s Executive Order Sparks Legal and Strategic Questions
For now, TikTok’s future hangs in the balance. Will Microsoft seal the deal, or could a dark horse swoop in? One thing’s clear: in Washington and Silicon Valley, all eyes are on the clock.
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