Trump Calls for Intel CEO Resignation Over Alleged Ties to China, Amid National Security Concerns

In a bold move on Thursday, President Donald Trump publicly demanded the resignation of Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan due to alleged ties to China. The demand was made via a post on Truth Social, stating, “The CEO of INTEL is highly CONFLICTED and must resign, immediately. There is no other solution to this problem. Thank you for your attention to this matter.”

Senator Tom Cotton of Arkansas raised similar concerns earlier, questioning the integrity of Intel due to Tan’s reported Chinese investments. In a letter to Intel board Chair Frank Yeary this week, Cotton highlighted recent reporting on Tan’s investments in hundreds of Chinese companies, some with ties to China’s military.

In response, Senator Cotton expressed concern about US companies receiving government grants and not adhering to strict security regulations. He posted on X, attaching the letter, stating, “The new CEO of @intel reportedly has deep ties to the Chinese Communists. U.S. companies who receive government grants should be responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars and adhere to strict security regulations. The board of @Intel owes Congress an explanation.”

In a statement, Intel expressed commitment to advancing US national and economic security interests and making significant investments aligned with the President’s America First agenda. However, shares of Intel (INTC) closed down 3% on Thursday in response to the controversy.

Tan assumed the role of Intel CEO in March, as the company seeks to revive its fortunes after missing out on the mobile and AI boom. Rival Nvidia, whose chips have been crucial for AI infrastructure, became the first $4 trillion company last month. In an attempt to streamline operations, Intel announced it had slashed 15% of its workforce in July.

Before joining Intel, Tan was CEO of tech design company Cadence Design Systems and a founding member of Walden Catalyst Ventures. This is not the first time Trump has criticized Intel; on Wednesday, during an announcement by Apple CEO Tim Cook about another $100 billion investment in US operations, Trump took a swipe at Intel, stating, “Intel was just taken over the coals… They were taken to the cleaners, frankly.”

This article has been updated with additional context and developments.