American Majority Ownership Secured
The White House announced Saturday that the United States will hold six of seven board seats overseeing TikTok’s U.S. operations and gain control of the app’s powerful recommendation algorithm.
“This deal means that TikTok will be majority-owned by Americans in the United States,” press secretary Karoline Leavitt said. “The algorithm will also be controlled by America.”
Algorithm Control at the Center
Concerns over China’s influence through TikTok’s content system have dominated debate for years. Lawmakers have warned the algorithm could be used to spread propaganda or suppress viewpoints critical of Beijing.
A bipartisan law passed in 2024 banned the app, and the Supreme Court upheld that ban in January. President Trump, however, has repeatedly extended deadlines to allow negotiations with China to continue. Earlier this week, he suspended any ban until December 16 while a framework was finalized.
Negotiations With China
Despite U.S. statements that the deal is essentially complete, Beijing has resisted handing over control of the algorithm. After a call between Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping, Trump reported a “productive” conversation and thanked Xi for TikTok’s approval. China’s official readout did not confirm agreement but left open the path for further negotiation.
Role of Oracle in U.S. Oversight
As part of the arrangement, Oracle will oversee TikTok’s data and security systems. The company, led by Larry Ellison, has been a vocal supporter of securing American technology from foreign control. The move positions Oracle as a key player in ensuring U.S. oversight of user information and digital infrastructure.
“All of the details have already been agreed upon,” Leavitt said. “Now we just need this deal to be signed.”
Why It Matters
- American control of TikTok’s algorithm addresses years of concern over foreign influence.
- Majority U.S. ownership limits Beijing’s leverage in one of the world’s most influential social media platforms.
- Oracle’s role provides additional assurance that data security will remain under American management.
The decision reflects President Trump’s broader agenda of securing U.S. technology, reducing foreign dependence, and protecting Americans from outside manipulation online.
Related Coverage
- Idaho News – https://idahonews.co/idaho-news-3/
- National News – https://idahonews.co/national-news/
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