TikTok’s CEO Consults Elon Musk on U.S. Strategy as Trump Presidency Looms
Shou Zi Chew, the CEO of TikTok’s parent company ByteDance, has reached out to Tesla CEO and influential tech figure Elon Musk for advice on navigating U.S. political dynamics as the Trump administration approaches. According to reports, Chew initiated conversations with Musk in recent weeks, discussing a variety of issues, including the incoming administration and potential tech policy changes.
While the discussions reportedly did not focus on specific actions to keep TikTok operational in the U.S., sources close to the matter say that Chew has kept ByteDance’s senior leadership informed of the talks, and there is cautious optimism about finding a path forward. The TikTok CEO is said to have sought Musk’s perspective on the future of tech policy in a potentially more restrictive political environment, with Musk being a key figure connected to the Trump camp.
ByteDance’s Strategic Preparations Amid Political Uncertainty
As the U.S. election results unfold, ByteDance executives have been engaging with political figures on both sides of the aisle. Before the election, the company held meetings with individuals linked to both President Trump and Democratic vice-presidential nominee Kamala Harris, signaling a strategic approach to dealing with the shifting political landscape.
Despite a history of tension with the Trump administration, including the former president’s attempt to ban TikTok in 2020, reports suggest that Trump has indicated he would not pursue a TikTok ban if re-elected. This has added a layer of uncertainty to ByteDance’s planning, with executives working behind the scenes to ensure the app’s future in the U.S. market.
Musk’s Role as a Tech Advisor to the Trump Camp
Elon Musk, who has become a prominent voice in U.S. tech policy discussions, especially with his ownership of the social media platform X, is seen as an influential adviser to the incoming Trump administration. His counsel on tech-related matters, including the regulation of social media platforms and international tech relations, is considered valuable by figures in Silicon Valley, including Chew.
ByteDance’s Focus on Navigating U.S. Political Terrain
As ByteDance anticipates a possible shift in U.S. tech policy under a second Trump term, the company’s efforts to safeguard TikTok’s operations in the country remain a top priority. With Musk now involved in these high-level discussions, the Chinese tech giant is exploring every avenue to ensure its app’s continued success in the U.S. market, while navigating the complexities of a politically charged environment.
