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[FCE] Trump says Rupert and Lachlan Murdoch likely part of US TikTok deal | Donald Trump | The Guardian

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In a surprising turn of events, US President Donald Trump has hinted at a potential deal involving media moguls Rupert Murdoch and his son Lachlan Murdoch to acquire the widely used social media platform TikTok in the United States. During a recent interview on Fox News with journalist Peter Doocy, Trump revealed that a group of prominent American investors, including business figures Larry Ellison and Michael Dell, are engaged in discussions for this acquisition. He specifically mentioned Lachlan Murdoch, noting his uncommon name, and suggested that Rupert Murdoch might also be involved. Sources indicate that their participation would likely be through Fox Corporation, where Lachlan holds the position of CEO, rather than as private individuals.

This development follows years of uncertainty over TikTok’s ownership. The app, currently owned by the Chinese company ByteDance, has faced scrutiny from the US government due to concerns about national security and user privacy. In 2024, a law was passed banning the app unless it is sold to an American entity. The Trump administration has repeatedly delayed the deadline for this sale, with the president claiming that TikTok’s vast user base of approximately 170 million Americans played a significant role in his re-election last year. Under the proposed deal, TikTok would be majority-owned by Americans, with data security managed by the tech giant Oracle and a board predominantly made up of US citizens.

Although the specifics of the agreement are not yet clear, Trump expressed strong confidence in the investors, describing them as patriots dedicated to their country. However, neither Fox Corporation nor the Murdochs have made any public statements regarding their involvement. Adding to the complexity of the situation, Trump has recently initiated legal action against Rupert Murdoch’s Wall Street Journal over unrelated issues, raising questions about how this might impact any potential collaboration.

This unfolding story highlights broader concerns about the influence of powerful media figures in the realms of technology and politics. The involvement of high-profile individuals and corporations in controlling platforms like TikTok could shape the way information is shared and opinions are formed, prompting debate about the future of digital communication in the US.

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1. What is the main reason behind the US government’s concern over TikTok’s current ownership?

  • A. The app’s declining popularity among users
  • B. Issues related to national security and privacy
  • C. The high cost of maintaining the platform
  • D. Competition with other social media apps

2. How does President Trump view the group of investors involved in the potential TikTok deal?

  • A. He is uncertain about their intentions
  • B. He believes they lack experience
  • C. He considers them loyal to the country
  • D. He thinks they are not suitable for the deal

3. What role is Oracle expected to play in the proposed TikTok agreement?

  • A. To manage the app’s marketing strategy
  • B. To oversee data security measures
  • C. To recruit new board members
  • D. To develop new features for the app

4. What complicates the potential collaboration between Trump and the Murdochs?

  • A. A recent legal dispute involving the Wall Street Journal
  • B. Their disagreement over TikTok’s user base
  • C. A lack of funding for the acquisition
  • D. Their differing views on national security

5. What broader issue does the article suggest regarding platforms like TikTok?

  • A. They are too expensive for large corporations to manage
  • B. They may struggle to attract enough users in the future
  • C. Their control by influential figures could affect information sharing
  • D. They are unlikely to comply with government regulations