Tech Giants' CEOs Secure Prime Seating at Trump's Inauguration, Including TikTok's Chief

Tech Giants' CEOs Secure Prime Seating at Trump's Inauguration, Including TikTok's Chief

By Alexander Mitchell

January 18, 2025 at 10:01 AM

Several prominent tech CEOs, including TikTok's Shou Zi Chew, have secured prestigious spots at Trump's upcoming presidential inauguration on January 20. Chew will join Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg, and Jeff Bezos on the dais, traditionally reserved for distinguished guests like former presidents and family members.

Shou Zi Chew at Trump inauguration

Shou Zi Chew at Trump inauguration

This marks a significant shift in Trump's stance toward TikTok, contrasting sharply with his 2020 attempts to ban the app and force ByteDance to sell to an American company. Trump's changed perspective reportedly stems from TikTok's role in connecting with younger voters during his recent campaign.

The timing is particularly crucial as TikTok faces a potential US ban on January 19, following Congressional legislation requiring ByteDance to sell TikTok's US operations to an American company. However, Trump's incoming national security adviser, Mike Waltz, has indicated the administration's intent to preserve TikTok while addressing data security concerns.

Recent developments include a private meeting between Chew and Trump at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, suggesting potential shifts in policy regarding TikTok's future in the US market. While the Supreme Court could still rule on the matter, Trump's administration appears poised to take action supporting TikTok's continued operation in the US.

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