U.S. President Donald Trump says that negotiations are underway with “four different groups” interested in acquiring TikTok’s operations in the United States as the April 5 deadline approaches for the possible banning yet again of the video-sharing platform.

“A lot of people want it, and it’s up to me,” Trump stated onboard Air Force One following his return to Washington from Florida on Monday. 

The President signed an executive order in January delaying enforcement of a divestiture law until April 5.

Among the potential bidders is a consortium led by billionaire Frank McCourt, which reportedly offered ByteDance $20 billion for TikTok’s U.S. operations. The group recently added Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian as a strategic advisor and plans to implement blockchain technology to enhance user data control if successful.

Another consortium organized by Jesse Tinsley, founder of Employer.com, includes the CEO of the gaming platform Roblox, which is offering more than $30 billion. AI startup Perplexity AI has proposed merging its business with TikTok’s U.S. operations, with VP JD Vance‘s aides seeking additional details about their bid.

Other interested parties reportedly include Microsoft, former Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin, and video platform Rumble, which previously expressed willingness to serve as a technology partner in a potential acquisition.

Government Role and Chinese Position

Trump previously indicated that he wants the U.S. government to broker a deal for 50% control of TikTok. Some bidders propose allowing the U.S. to invest in or own a stake in the platform, with Trump himself suggesting a new government-owned investment fund could partially own TikTok.

Chinese officials appear to have softened their stance compared to last year. Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning stated in January that business operations and acquisitions “should be independently decided by companies in accordance with market principles,” while noting that Chinese laws and regulations should be observed for Chinese companies.

The April 5 deadline may be extended if necessary, as Trump has indicated flexibility on the timeline. If a sale to an approved buyer is not made by the deadline, the original law banning TikTok nationwide will take effect.