President Trump Claims Role Saving TikTok App Amid US Ownership Shift

President Donald Trump posted a video on TikTok from the Oval Office, claiming he "saved" the popular app by preventing its shutdown in the U.S. amid concerns over data privacy and Chinese ownership. This video marked his return to TikTok and was part of his broader strategy to engage younger voters using digital platforms. Trump's administration facilitated a deal for U.S. buyers, including Oracle, to take control of TikTok's U.S. operations, ensuring the app's continued presence while addressing national security concerns. ByteDance, TikTok's Chinese parent company, remains a minority stakeholder under 20%, with the new U.S.-based entity overseeing local data and algorithm controls. This move followed legislation requiring ByteDance to sell TikTok's U.S. operations and was achieved through negotiations involving both U.S. and Chinese governments. Vice President J.D. Vance also relaunched his TikTok presence, signaling the platform's growing role in political communication.