URGENT UPDATE: Former President Donald Trump has made headlines during his recent press conference in the United Kingdom, declaring, “I like TikTok,” just years after labeling the app a national security threat. This statement comes as Trump prepares for discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping on a proposed agreement that would allow TikTok’s American operations to be sold to a U.S.-owned group.
In a surprising twist, Trump credited TikTok for aiding his election campaign, stating, “It helped get me elected.” He emphasized the app’s value, citing its effectiveness in reaching young voters. “We did unbelievably well with youth, like at a level that no Republican has ever even dreamt of,” he added. This new stance sharply contrasts with his 2020 executive order threatening to ban TikTok unless its parent company, ByteDance, divested its American operations.
During the press conference on October 26, 2023, alongside Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, Trump was asked about the ongoing negotiations regarding TikTok. He confirmed that discussions with Xi would occur on Friday, highlighting the app’s significant role in his campaign strategy.
The former president’s remarks follow a recent order he issued, directing the Department of Justice to delay enforcement of a law banning TikTok until December 16, 2024, as negotiations proceed. This law would have prohibited the app’s use in the U.S., reflecting the ongoing tension regarding national security concerns.
Trump’s comments have raised eyebrows, especially as he continues to assert that he won the 2020 election, despite losing to current President Joe Biden. In a controversial exchange, he stated, “We won in 2020, big,” while discussing illegal migration issues that have influenced his decision to run for president again.
The press conference was also marked by Trump’s avoidance of questions regarding Lord Peter Mandelson, the former British ambassador recently embroiled in a scandal linked to Jeffrey Epstein. When asked about Mandelson’s situation, Trump claimed ignorance, despite being photographed with him earlier this year.
As the situation unfolds, observers are keenly watching the implications of Trump’s evolving relationship with TikTok and his insistence on its importance. The upcoming negotiations with China could significantly impact U.S.-China relations and the future of social media in America.
Stay tuned for the latest developments as this story continues to evolve.
