The Inside Story Podcast Will the US and China reach a deal on TikTok?
Sep 20, 2025
Richard Weitz, a senior fellow at the NATO Defense College, and Einar Tangen from the Centre for International Governance Innovation dive into the complex US-China dynamics surrounding TikTok. They discuss national security implications, with Weitz emphasizing data risks and legislation. Tangen shares how Beijing sees TikTok as a model of success. The conversation reveals Trump’s shifting position, the potential for a deal involving partial US control, and warns of a dangerous precedent for global tech governance as the US and China potentially drift apart.
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Data And Algorithm Are Core US Concerns
- Richard Weitz says US concerns focus on data access and algorithmic influence from TikTok tied to Chinese government risks.
- He highlights worries about data collection revealing American behavior and the algorithm shaping opinions on Taiwan and Xinjiang.
Bipartisan Concern Then Political Calculus
- Maria Curi notes TikTok action was bipartisan and upheld by the Supreme Court, showing genuine national security concern.
- She argues political calculations later influenced enforcement decisions by presidents.
TikTok's Appeal Is Its Algorithmic Hook
- Einar Tangen compares TikTok to short, popular videos with a powerful algorithm that draws audiences in.
- He frames US criticism as partly driven by envy of TikTok's success versus US apps.