Trump Admits “TikTok Helped Me Become President” During Xi Jinping Call
President Donald Trump acknowledged that TikTok helped him win the presidency while discussing the platform’s future with Chinese President Xi Jinping in a crucial phone call.
Historic Call Between World Leaders
Trump and Xi Jinping held an important phone call to finalize a deal that could determine TikTok’s fate in the United States. The deal would conclude a yearslong effort that began during Trump’s first term and became a key factor in broader negotiations between the United States and China in recent months.
The call began at 8 a.m. Washington time and focused on resolving the TikTok ownership issue. Both leaders worked to find a solution that satisfies American security concerns while keeping the popular app available to millions of users.
Trump’s Surprising TikTok Admission
During recent statements, Trump revealed his positive feelings about the Chinese-owned platform. He said, “I like TikTok, it helped my election campaign too. TikTok is a valuable asset and America has control over it.”
This admission shows how the app played a role in Trump’s political success. The platform’s massive reach among young voters likely contributed to his campaign’s effectiveness on social media.
TikTok Ownership Deal Details
A deal has been reached between the Trump administration and China to keep TikTok operational in the United States, administration officials announced Monday. The agreement involves transferring TikTok’s American assets from ByteDance to American owners.
If this deal succeeds, it will save the app from being banned in the United States. Congress had previously decided that TikTok must come under American ownership by January 2025 or face a complete shutdown.
Security Concerns Remain
American officials still have concerns about ByteDance’s algorithm being used in TikTok’s US operations. TikTok’s algorithm is the “secret sauce” behind the app’s success, experts say. U.S.-China talks over the app’s ownership must resolve who controls the technology.
The algorithm controls what content users see on their feeds. Security experts worry that foreign control of this technology could influence American users or collect sensitive data about their behavior.
Congressional Approval Needed
It remains unclear whether Congress will approve the new ownership structure. Lawmakers want to ensure that any deal truly protects American interests and user data from foreign influence.
The agreement must satisfy both security requirements and business needs. Congress will carefully review how much control China retains in the new ownership arrangement.
Broader Trade Discussions
The Trump-Xi call covered more than just TikTok. The leaders discussed trade issues, semiconductor policies, aviation agreements, soybean purchases, and fentanyl chemical exports between their countries.
These topics represent ongoing economic challenges between the world’s two largest economies. Resolving these issues could reduce tensions and improve bilateral relations.
Political Importance of TikTok
Trump delayed immediate enforcement of the TikTok ban because the app remains extremely popular among millions of users. The platform has significant political influence, especially among younger demographics.
The app’s popularity makes it valuable for political communication. Politicians recognize that reaching TikTok users is important for connecting with diverse audiences across America.
Impact on US-China Relations
Analysts believe this TikTok deal could help reduce growing tensions between the United States and China. Success in these negotiations might create momentum for solving other bilateral problems.
The agreement demonstrates that both countries can find common ground on complex issues. This cooperation could lead to improved relations in other areas of disagreement.
Looking Ahead
The finalized deal will determine whether TikTok continues operating in America under new ownership rules. Users and businesses that depend on the platform await the final decision from both governments.
This landmark agreement could set precedents for how other foreign-owned technology companies operate in the United States. The outcome will influence future debates about technology, security, and international business relationships.
