In a significant development for U.S. tech policy, President Donald Trump has revealed that media moguls Rupert and Lachlan Murdoch, along with tech entrepreneur Michael Dell, are poised to join a consortium of American investors aiming to acquire TikTok’s U.S. operations. This move comes in response to national security concerns over the app’s Chinese ownership and is part of broader efforts to ensure American control over critical digital infrastructure.
The Murdochs’ Potential Involvement:
President Trump’s announcement highlights the potential involvement of Rupert and Lachlan Murdoch in the TikTok acquisition deal. While specific details remain undisclosed, their participation would bring significant media and business influence to the consortium. Lachlan Murdoch, as CEO of Fox Corporation, and Rupert Murdoch, as the company’s chairman emeritus, have extensive experience in media and communications, which could be instrumental in navigating the complexities of the acquisition.
Their involvement underscores the administration’s strategy to leverage influential figures in the media industry to facilitate the transition of TikTok’s U.S. operations into American hands. However, it’s important to note that reports suggest Fox Corporation, rather than the Murdochs individually, may be the entity participating in the investment group.
The Role of Michael Dell and Larry Ellison:
In addition to the Murdochs, tech industry leaders Michael Dell and Larry Ellison are expected to play pivotal roles in the acquisition. Michael Dell, founder of Dell Technologies, brings a wealth of experience in technology and infrastructure, while Larry Ellison, co-founder of Oracle, is known for his expertise in data management and cybersecurity.
Their involvement is particularly significant given Oracle’s anticipated role in overseeing TikTok’s data and privacy operations. The Trump administration has emphasized the importance of American control over TikTok’s data, with plans for six out of seven board seats to be held by U.S. nationals.
National Security Concerns and Legislative Actions:
The push for a U.S.-led acquisition of TikTok stems from national security concerns related to the app’s Chinese ownership by ByteDance. In 2024, the U.S. Congress passed legislation mandating the sale or ban of TikTok unless it was divested from its Chinese parent company. The law, known as the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, was upheld by the Supreme Court in January 2025.
Despite the legal mandate, enforcement of the law has been delayed multiple times, with President Trump issuing executive orders to extend deadlines and prevent the app’s removal from U.S. app stores. These actions have allowed TikTok to continue operating in the U.S. while negotiations for its acquisition proceed.
Implications for TikTok Users and Content Moderation:
For TikTok users in the United States, the potential acquisition could lead to significant changes in content moderation and data privacy practices. With American control over the platform, there may be shifts in how content is regulated, potentially aligning more closely with U.S. laws and policies. AP News
Additionally, the involvement of media figures like the Murdochs could influence the platform’s content strategy, possibly leading to changes in the types of content promoted and the overall user experience. Users may notice adjustments in content algorithms and moderation policies as the platform transitions to American ownership.
Conclusion:
The potential acquisition of TikTok’s U.S. operations by a consortium including the Murdochs, Michael Dell, and Larry Ellison marks a pivotal moment in the intersection of technology, media, and national security. As negotiations continue, the outcome will have lasting implications for the digital landscape, user privacy, and the broader geopolitical dynamics between the U.S. and China. Stakeholders across the political and business spectrum will be closely monitoring developments, as the final deal could set precedents for future foreign tech acquisitions in the United States.
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