President Donald Trump on Wednesday night downplayed the possibility that China could be using the popular social media app TikTok to spy on young Americans.
During a sit-down interview with Fox News host Sean Hannity, the host reminded the president that experts have warned the app — which was set to be banned following legislation passed by lawmakers — could be used as a tool to spy on Americans.
"Those that know say it could be a spying app for the communist Chinese," Hannity began, before Trump cut him off.
"I know. But you could say that about everything made in China," said Trump, who has long criticized the country. "Look, we have our telephones made in China for the most part. We have so many things made in China."
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Trump then pointed out what he found intriguing about TikTok.
"The interesting thing about TikTok is you're dealing with a lot of young people," he added. "Is it that important for China to be spying on young people? On young kids watching crazy videos on things?"
"I don't want China spying on anybody," Hannity replied.
"I know. But they make your telephones, they make your computers and they make a lot of other things. Isn't that a bigger threat?" Trump questioned.
Watch the clip below or at this link.
Trump: Is it that important for China to be spying on young people watching crazy videos?
Hannity: I don't want China spying on anybody.
Trump: But they make your telephones and they make your computers. Isn’t that a bigger threat? pic.twitter.com/BeNn00YQIT
— Acyn (@Acyn) January 23, 2025