President Trump Reverses Demand for Intel CEO Resignation, Hails Success After White House Meeting

In a surprising turn of events, President Trump, who previously called for Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan’s resignation, has now praised Tan following a White House meeting. Trump took to Truth Social on Monday to express his admiration, stating, “The meeting was a very interesting one. His success and rise is an amazing story.”

Just last week, Trump seemed determined to remove Tan from Intel, citing the executive’s past ties to China. However, details about the recent meeting remain scant, with Trump only revealing that Tan and members of his Cabinet will collaborate to offer suggestions over the next week.

IT analyst Patrick Moorhead interprets this as a reprieve for Tan, comparable to how the Trump administration has often threatened tariffs on foreign countries before eventually delaying them.

In a statement, Intel reported that the meeting led to a “candid and constructive discussion on Intel’s commitment to strengthening US technology and manufacturing leadership.” The company further expressed appreciation for Trump’s efforts in advancing these critical priorities and looks forward to continued collaboration.

Tan has faced scrutiny from Trump and Senator Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) due to reports of Tan’s investments in Chinese tech companies, including at least eight with links to China’s military. Prior to becoming Intel’s CEO in March, Tan was the head of Cadence Design Systems, a San Jose-based semiconductor company that recently pleaded guilty to illegally exporting sensitive design technologies to China.

Despite ongoing questions about Tan’s investments in Chinese companies, he has maintained in a memo to Intel employees that he has always operated within the highest legal and ethical standards.