TikTok CEO to attend Trump inauguration as app's ban takes effect

SUMMARY

TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew plans to attend President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration next week, sitting prominently on the dais alongside other influential tech leaders, including Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg, and Jeff Bezos, as confirmed by Trump’s transition team. Chew’s attendance is notable as the U.S. ban on TikTok is set to take effect Sunday, unless a last-minute intervention occurs. The Trump Vance Inaugural Committee extended the invitation to Chew, marking TikTok's presence within American culture despite its precarious standing. The app’s ban stems from national security concerns over its Chinese ownership. Incoming National Security Advisor Michael Waltz indicated that Trump is exploring a deal to preserve TikTok while safeguarding U.S. user data, reiterating Trump’s reputation as a “dealmaker.”