TikTok has strongly refuted allegations that China might contemplate selling its U.S. operations to Elon Musk, calling the claims ‘pure fiction.’ This response follows a Bloomberg report suggesting that Chinese authorities are allegedly evaluating the possibility of transferring TikTok’s American business to Musk’s social media platform, X. Should the United States Supreme Court decide to uphold the proposed ban on the application, significant implications could follow.
Supreme Court Deadline Looms
The Supreme Court is expected to decide on a law mandating TikTok to either sell its U.S. operations by January 19 or risk being banned. Despite ongoing speculation, TikTok has maintained its position against selling its U.S. operations. “We can’t be expected to comment on pure fiction,” a TikTok spokesperson told BBC.
Bloomberg’s Report on Musk’s Involvement
Citing unnamed sources, Bloomberg suggested that Chinese officials are weighing the possibility of Musk acquiring TikTok’s U.S. operations. Musk’s platform, X, declined to comment on the report.
Musk is known for his close ties to President-elect Donald Trump, who is set to return to office on January 20. Trump has previously voiced opposition to a TikTok ban, advocating for a political resolution instead.
Trump and TikTok
Last month, Trump met with TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida. He has since urged the Supreme Court to delay its ruling until he takes office, arguing that his administration could address the matter diplomatically.
Trump’s lawyer said in a legal filing, “The president-elect opposes banning TikTok and seeks the ability to resolve the issues at hand through political means once he takes office.”
Calls for an Extension
Amid growing political tension, Democratic lawmakers, including Senator Edward Markey and Representative Ro Khanna, have called on Congress and President Joe Biden to extend the January 19 deadline. However, during recent Supreme Court arguments, justices appeared inclined to uphold the legislation, citing national security concerns as a driving factor.
National Security Debate
The Biden administration has repeatedly argued that TikTok poses a risk to U.S. national security, claiming it could be exploited by the Chinese Communist Party for espionage or political manipulation. TikTok, however, has denied these allegations and insists it operates independently of Chinese government influence. The company has also stated that banning the app violates First Amendment rights, as it limits free speech for its American users.
Conclusion
As the Supreme Court deadline approaches, the future of TikTok’s U.S. operations remains uncertain. While speculation about a potential sale to Musk continues, TikTok remains steadfast in its refusal to sell and denies any influence from the Chinese government. With the legal and political stakes high, the next few weeks will be critical in determining TikTok’s fate in the United States.Â