US President Donald Trump on Monday, 7 July 2025, claimed that TikTok played a decisive role in his election victory, pointing to his status as the platform's most-followed political figure as evidence of its reach — even as national security concerns over the Chinese-owned app persist in Washington.

What Trump Said

Speaking at the White House after the launch of the 'Trump Accounts' investment programme, Trump stated plainly: 'I'm number one on TikTok by far. I think it helped me win the election in a landslide, if you want to know the truth.'

He went further, citing recent audience rankings to argue his reach on the platform surpasses even major celebrities. 'The numbers just came out,' he said. 'Taylor Swift was number 11. I'm number one.'

On the Security Debate

Trump acknowledged that policymakers continue to flag risks tied to TikTok's Chinese ownership, referencing what he described as ongoing discussions about 'the dangers of TikTok' and 'the whole thing with spying.' However, he used his own popularity on the platform to question the severity of those concerns, suggesting the app's influence on American users — including himself — complicates the case for a ban.

Notably, this is not the first time Trump has shifted his position on TikTok. During his first term, his administration moved to ban the app, before courts blocked the effort. His current stance marks a significant reversal.

The Xi Jinping Call

Trump disclosed that he had spoken directly with Chinese President Xi Jinping about TikTok's future, expressing support for bringing the platform under American ownership. 'I called President Xi,' Trump said. 'I said... it's a good thing for TikTok, but it's good for us that American companies, great ones, own our TikTok.'

While describing China as 'a great competitor,' Trump indicated he favours a negotiated ownership solution over an outright prohibition.

Context and What It Means

The remarks arrive as TikTok's legal and regulatory status in the United States remains unresolved. Congress passed legislation requiring ByteDance, TikTok's Beijing-based parent company, to divest its US operations or face a ban — a law that has faced legal challenges. Trump's comments signal he may use his personal stake in the platform's audience as political cover to delay or soften enforcement.

Critics argue that personal popularity on a platform does not neutralise the intelligence-community concerns that prompted bipartisan legislative action in the first place. The tension between Trump's TikTok following and Washington's security consensus is unlikely to resolve quickly.

What Happens Next

Negotiations over a potential American acquisition of TikTok's US operations are reportedly ongoing, with several technology and media groups said to be in discussions. Trump's public comments may add pressure on ByteDance to accelerate a deal, though the timeline and terms remain unclear. Congressional hawks are expected to push back on any arrangement that leaves Chinese algorithmic control intact.