TikTok CEO Shou Chew has turned to Elon Musk for guidance amid growing uncertainty about the app’s future in the United States, according to The Wall Street Journal. Chew reportedly reached out to Musk for insight on the incoming Trump administration’s stance on tech policy, how it could impact TikTok and what regulatory changes might be on the horizon.
Earlier this year, lawmakers passed a bill that could force TikTok to sell its U.S. operations. Lawmakers said the app posed a threat to national security.
The bill would force TikTok to sever ties with its China-based parent ByteDance. If the company refused to comply by January it would face a ban in the U.S.
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Lawmakers have expressed concerns about potential Chinese government influence on TikTok’s content. In response, TikTok filed a lawsuit, arguing that the law infringes on free speech.
Chew and Musk haven’t discussed specific ways for TikTok to remain operational in the U.S., according to the Journal. However, ByteDance executives are said to be “cautiously optimistic” a solution could be found.
TikTok executives have met with people close to both Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris ahead of the election. Now, the company is engaging with Musk and other influential figures as it works to stay connected to U.S. policymakers.
Musk’s influence has only grown since the election. He’s been staying at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort and reportedly participated in key discussions about the administration’s transition, including weighing in on cabinet appointments.
The two also visited south Texas last week for the launch of SpaceX’s Starship rocket.
Musk’s proximity to Trump has made him a valuable figure for business leaders. Many of those leaders have sought insight from Musk into the next four years of U.S. policy.
