TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew is anticipated to be a prominent guest at President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration, sitting alongside other tech giants like Mark Zuckerberg, Jeff Bezos, and Elon Musk. This invitation comes as TikTok faces a potential ban in the U.S. due to national security concerns related to its Chinese ownership.
Interestingly, Trump is reportedly reconsidering his previous stance on TikTok and may suspend the enforcement of the ban, potentially exploring alternative solutions like a negotiated sale. This represents a shift from his 2020 attempts to block the app and force its sale to a U.S. company. Trump has recently expressed positive sentiments towards TikTok, even boasting a substantial following on the platform.
Shou Zi Chew, CEO of TikTok, testifying before Congress. (Getty Images)
Congress passed a bipartisan law last year mandating TikTok's divestiture from Chinese-owned ByteDance or face a ban. Despite this, reports suggest U.S. billionaires, including Elon Musk and Kevin O'Leary, are interested in acquiring TikTok's U.S. operations.
Former President Donald Trump at a Republican National Committee event. (Donald Trump 2024 campaign)
The Supreme Court recently reviewed a challenge to the law impacting TikTok's future, with a decision pending. Trump has several options, including urging Congress to repeal the law, instructing the Department of Justice not to enforce it, or finding another pathway. His attorney general nominee, Pam Bondi, remained noncommittal on the ban's enforcement during her confirmation hearing.
Preparations underway for President-elect Trump's inauguration. (AP Photo)
While Trump extended an invitation to Chinese President Xi Jinping, his attendance is unlikely. Despite past cybersecurity concerns related to China, Trump appears to be adopting a diplomatic approach with Xi, while simultaneously keeping the possibility of tariffs on Chinese exports in play.
