Tech billionaire Elon Musk has expressed his opposition to the ban on TikTok, arguing that such actions undermine freedom of speech. Musk, who is also the owner of the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), emphasized that while the ban might be seen as beneficial to X, it goes against the principles of free expression, which are central to American values. Musk had previously voiced similar concerns about banning TikTok, stating that it would be harmful to the concept of free speech, even if it could benefit his own platform.
“I have been against a TikTok ban for a long time because it goes against freedom of speech,” Musk said. “That said, the current situation where TikTok is allowed to operate in America, but is not allowed to operate in China is unbalanced.”
Musk’s comments came after a landmark decision by the U.S. Supreme Court on Friday, which unanimously upheld a federal law requiring the app to be sold by its China-based parent company or face a ban. The court’s ruling concluded that the national security risks posed by TikTok’s Chinese ownership outweighed concerns over limiting free speech, which affects over 170 million U.S. users.
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White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre stated that TikTok should remain accessible to American users, but under American ownership or a framework that addresses the national security concerns raised by Congress. She noted that the responsibility for implementing this law would fall on the new administration.
In the wake of the Supreme Court ruling, some users of the app reported receiving messages stating that the ban was in effect, sparking discussions about potential future developments. Meanwhile, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump hinted that he might consider offering a 90-day reprieve for the app once he assumes office, following talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
Reports have also surfaced suggesting that Chinese authorities are considering Elon Musk as a potential buyer for TikTok’s U.S. operations. Sources close to the matter claim that Musk’s X platform could take over the app’s American business, though TikTok has denied these rumors. No official statements have been made about the potential acquisition.
