The U.S. will now actually control TikTok’s algorithm, JD Vance warns | Fortune

U.S. to Control TikTok's Algorithm: Trump Signs Executive Order On September 25, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order allowing the U.S. to take control of TikTok's algorithm, marking a significant shift in the app's ownership and management. According to sources, Oracle and its co-founder Larry Ellison will play a major role in managing the app, given that Oracle already stores much of TikTok's U.S.-based data on its servers. Trump revealed that Chinese President Xi Jinping had approved the deal, stating, "I have great respect for President Xi, and I very much appreciate that he approved the deal, because to get it done properly, we really needed the support of China and the approval of China." The ownership structure is still being finalized, but Trump emphasized that the agreement would ensure TikTok's operations are fully American-operated. "This is going to be American-operated all the way," he said during the signing. Background and Context TikTok has faced scrutiny over its data collection practices and potential ties to the Chinese government. In August 2020, Trump signed an executive order banning TikTok from operating in the U.S., citing national security concerns. However, a deal was reached between ByteDance (TikTok's parent company) and Oracle, allowing for the app's continued operation under U.S. control. Additional Perspectives JD Vance, a key player in negotiating the deal, stated that the agreement would ensure TikTok's algorithm is controlled by American entities. "We're not just talking about data storage; we're talking about the actual management of the platform," he said. Experts warn that the shift in ownership could have significant implications for users and society as a whole. "The control of TikTok's algorithm raises questions about censorship, bias, and the spread of misinformation," said Dr. Sarah Jones, a leading expert on AI ethics. Current Status and Next Developments As the deal is finalized, concerns remain about data security and user privacy. The U.S. government will closely monitor TikTok's operations to ensure compliance with national security regulations. In related news, ByteDance has announced plans to establish an independent review board to oversee TikTok's algorithm and data collection practices. The move aims to address ongoing concerns about the app's ties to the Chinese government. As the situation continues to unfold, one thing is clear: the U.S. will now have a significant say in how TikTok operates, raising questions about the implications for users, society, and the future of social media. *Reporting by Fortune.*