TikTok attracts a big bid from prominent Trump supporter

By Jesse Munn on
 March 29, 2025

Reid Rasner, a figure connected to Donald Trump, is leading with a significant bid to purchase TikTok.

With a $47.45 billion offer, Rasner seeks to acquire TikTok from ByteDance by an April 5 deadline, Just The News reported.

ByteDance faces a pressing sale deadline following U.S. legislative actions aiming to safeguard national security. Under President Biden's leadership, Congress mandated TikTok's sale or U.S. operations would cease, addressing concerns over data privacy and surveillance facilitated by Chinese control.

Rasner's Proposal Surpasses Previous Bids

The offer by Reid Rasner surpasses Elon Musk's previous $44 billion acquisition of Twitter. Rasner, a billionaire from Wyoming, emphasizes that his bid offers exceptional value for the company. Reid Rasner highlights the strategic value of his proposal, stating: "We're nearly $50 billion- $20 billion more than any bid out there. So we are the highest bid at the table." He suggests the deal could enhance bipartisan efforts and economic opportunities in the U.S.

Incorporating a philanthropic component, Rasner plans to contribute 5% of the acquisition to a sovereign wealth fund established during Trump's presidency, aiming to cultivate long-term investments. This fund was initially conceived by an executive order under Trump to bolster economic initiatives.

Data Trade Model To Revolutionize Social Media

The proposed purchase includes innovative elements such as a new data trade model. Rasner envisions a system where social media users will receive payments for opting-in and sharing their data. He highlights the transformative impact this could have on user experiences and industry standards.

Rasner strongly advocates for this user-focused approach, emphasizing its potential to reshape the digital landscape by empowering individuals. He contrasts this model with previous practices of exchanging free data for services, a standard he aims to change. Rasner remains optimistic about the proposal's potential, envisioning a future where users are empowered to monetize their data directly. "We are going to revolutionize social media, and it will never be the same again," he asserts passionately.

Bipartisan Support Expected For TikTok Purchase

The sale of TikTok has attracted significant interest, with other competitors in the bidding race. Offers have been presented by Perplexity AI, a collaboration involving Alexis Ohanian and Frank McCourt, James Stephen Donaldson, also known as "Mr. Beast," and Bobby Kotick.

Jesse Tinsley, CEO of Employer.com, expressed confidence in Rasner's offer, noting the strength and collaborative potential of the proposal. Rasner's bid aims to outshine these contenders with both financial heft and a unique value proposition.

Rasner underlines his commitment to ensuring all stakeholders, including ByteDance, the American public, and former President Trump, are content with the outcome. He frames the deal as favorable for the U.S., highlighting the potential for bipartisan approval.

Trump's Vision Complemented Through Bid Proposal

Reid Rasner underscores the alignment of his offer with Trump's economic vision, portraying it as advantageous for American interests. "Not only that, we're delivering a massive, 100 day win for President Trump by creating the sovereign wealth fund," Rasner expresses.

Rasner’s bid also extends an opportunity for the U.S. government to increase its stake in TikTok, promoting broader investment participation. His offer is characterized as an "America First" initiative, potentially attractive to decision-makers seeking bipartisan success. He paints the proposal as an opportunity for America to enhance its competitive edge in the global market while addressing data privacy concerns effectively. This framing could foster political synergy and support across the aisle.

As the deadline approaches, Reid Rasner’s $47.45 billion bid stands as the highest offer to acquire TikTok from ByteDance. U.S. legislative requirements drive the sale to address data privacy, inviting multiple interested parties. The bid's unique components, including its data trade model and sovereign wealth fund contribution, potently encapsulate Trump-inspired values and appeal to a wide political audience.

About Jesse Munn

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