Fact Check: Trump Now Supports TikTok's Continued Use in the US
What We Know
Recently, former President Donald Trump stated that he has a group of "very wealthy people" interested in purchasing TikTok, the popular video-sharing app that faced a potential ban in the United States due to national security concerns. In an interview with Fox News, Trump mentioned that he would reveal more details about this potential buyer in about two weeks (BBC).
Trump's previous administration had criticized TikTok, citing fears that the app could compromise user data and pose a risk to national security. However, it appears that his perspective has shifted. He now views TikTok as a valuable asset, potentially beneficial for his political ambitions in the upcoming 2024 election (BBC).
Moreover, Trump has delayed the enforcement of a law mandating TikTok's sale multiple times, indicating a change in his stance towards the app. The latest extension requires TikTok's parent company, ByteDance, to finalize a sale by September 17 (BBC).
Analysis
The claim that Trump supports TikTok's continued use in the US is substantiated by his recent comments and actions. His assertion of having potential buyers for TikTok suggests a willingness to facilitate its operation rather than enforce a ban. This is a notable shift from his earlier position, where he sought to restrict or eliminate the app due to security concerns.
The reliability of the source, the BBC, is generally high, as it is a well-respected international news organization known for its journalistic standards. The information presented is based on Trump's own statements during a public interview, which adds a layer of credibility to the claim. However, it is important to note that Trump's motivations may be influenced by political considerations, particularly as he prepares for the 2024 election (BBC).
While the claim is supported by Trump's statements, the situation remains fluid, and any potential sale would still require approval from the Chinese government, which adds complexity to the situation. Additionally, previous attempts to sell TikTok have failed due to geopolitical tensions, which raises questions about the feasibility of Trump's current claims.
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The evidence supports the claim that Trump now supports TikTok's continued use in the US. His recent comments about having wealthy buyers interested in acquiring the app, along with his delays in enforcing a ban, indicate a significant shift in his stance. While there are complexities involved, particularly regarding international relations and the app's ownership, Trump's current position is one of support rather than opposition.
