‘Pure Fiction’ – TikTok Denies Report of Elon Musk-Led US Operations Sale

• TikTok denies reports of potential U.S. operations sale to Elon Musk, calling them “pure fiction.”
• Supreme Court ruling on TikTok’s future in the U.S. expected ahead of the January 19 deadline.
• National security concerns drive bipartisan scrutiny, with China accused of potential spying and manipulation.

TikTok has dismissed a report suggesting that China might allow the sale of its U.S. operations to Elon Musk as “pure fiction.”

The statement came after Bloomberg claimed Chinese officials are exploring a scenario where Musk’s X platform could acquire TikTok’s U.S. business if the Supreme Court upholds a ban on the app.

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The Court is set to rule on legislation requiring TikTok to sell its U.S. operations or face a nationwide ban by January 19.

TikTok has repeatedly denied plans to sell its American operations. “We can’t be expected to comment on pure fiction,” a TikTok spokesperson told said.

Bloomberg’s report, citing unnamed sources, suggested that Musk’s X might take over TikTok’s U.S. arm under certain conditions. X did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Musk, a close ally of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, is at the centre of speculation as Trump prepares to return to the White House on January 20. Trump recently urged the Supreme Court to delay its decision, aiming to resolve the matter politically once in office.

Last month, Trump met TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew at his Mar-a-Lago estate, further fuelling speculation about a potential deal.

Meanwhile, Democratic lawmakers Senator Edward Markey and Representative Ro Khanna have called for the January 19 deadline to be extended, citing the need for a more comprehensive review.

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During Supreme Court arguments last week, justices appeared inclined to uphold the legislation, citing national security concerns about TikTok’s potential use as a tool for espionage or political manipulation by China.

The Biden administration has defended the law, while TikTok continues to deny any influence from the Chinese Communist Party, arguing that a ban would violate users’ First Amendment rights.

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