Trump's TikTok Strategy: A Direct Line to Young Voters

The White House officially launched its TikTok account on Tuesday, addressing the platform's extensive U.S. audience by disseminating messages from President Donald Trump. Recognizing the app's role in rallying support among young voters in the 2024 election, Trump attributes part of his victory to its influence.

However, growing concerns in Washington about the potential risk of U.S. user data reaching Chinese authorities remain. Trump seeks to initiate a deal allowing U.S. investors to purchase the app from its Chinese owner, ByteDance. Previous intelligence reports have highlighted that TikTok's proprietors could leverage the platform to sway American public opinion.

With the TikTok handle @whitehouse now active, its inaugural post features Trump proclaiming, "I am your voice," accompanied by the caption, "America we are BACK! What's up TikTok?" The Trump administration plans to broaden its communication efforts using diverse platforms to highlight its accomplishments, with Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasizing Trump's dominance on TikTok last year and the administration's intent to expand its outreach.

(With inputs from agencies.)