US regulators are already doing bold things to get TikTok’s algorithm under American control. They are driven by fears that Chinese authorities might be able to game it. The popular short-form content video platform has recently drawn criticism. TikTok’s algorithm could manipulate content in ways that are virtually impossible to identify, increasing the risk that user data is not adequately protected.
Given all of these issues, the U.S. government has considered simply banning TikTok from being available in the U.S. Approximately 4 in 5 supporters of a ban cite strong worries about data security. This fear fuels their advocacy for the bill. Former Pres. Xi Jinping are said to be working on one such deal. They want to finalize the sale of a controlling stake in TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, to American investors.
Indeed, Trump claims that American investors are chomping at the bit to invest in TikTok. Unclear, too, is his commitment to making sure China doesn’t continue to have control over the platform’s algorithm. TikTok’s algorithm is expected to be overseen by U.S. companies, ensuring that Americans hold a majority of seats on the board managing TikTok’s U.S. operations.
Leavitt, an influential leader in the ongoing debates, quickly made his priorities clear in defending American privacy and holding the line on making the app open and accessible. He stated, “recognized the need to protect Americans’ privacy and data while keeping this app open.” Additionally, he asserted that “TikTok is a vital part of our democratic process,” underscoring the platform’s significance in contemporary society.
Though still somewhat vague, the expected agreement would seek to guarantee that U.S. interests control the company’s TikTok algorithm. Leavitt reiterated, “the algorithm will be controlled by America as well.” As negotiations progress, Trump affirmed that “It’s all being worked out. We’re going to have very good control.”
A statement from the Chinese government has not clarified what Xi agreed to regarding the deal, leaving some questions unanswered. The forthcoming deal represents more than a filling-in-the-blanks moment. Its effects are felt on the continuing conversation around TikTok and its business operations in the United States.
