Trump Calls for Immediate Resignation of Intel’s CEO

Former President Trump has demanded that Intel’s new CEO, Rip Butan, resign without delay, citing alleged financial connections to the Chinese military.

“Every Intel CEO is conflicted and must step down immediately. There’s really no other way to handle this,” Trump stated in a post on his social media platform on Thursday morning.

Intel has yet to respond to requests for comment.

The company’s shares dropped nearly 2% right after the market opened.

Tan, who has a background in Malaysia and grew up in Singapore, took over as Intel’s CEO this March, following the ousting of Pat Gelsinger amid disappointing financial results and layoffs.

Last year, Intel received an $8.5 billion boost from the Biden Administration’s Chips Act, aimed at establishing secure microchips for defense and intelligence purposes. This funding was later adjusted to about $7.85 billion, yet Intel remains among the top beneficiaries of federal funds.

Trump’s comments came shortly after Senator Tom Cotton (R-ARK) sent a letter to Intel’s board expressing concerns about the safety and integrity of Intel’s operations, as well as potential effects on U.S. national security.

A Reuters report suggested that Tan had invested at least $200 million in various Chinese companies over a period running from 2012 to 2024, some of which allegedly have ties to the military and the Communist Party.

In response to the situation, an Intel spokesperson emphasized the company’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of their role in U.S. national security and the defense sector.

Cotton highlighted that as a primary recipient of government grants, Intel must act as a responsible steward of taxpayer money and comply with security regulations.

Additionally, according to Reuters, Cadence Design, Tan’s previous employer, recently settled fees related to over $140 million in sales to Chinese military entities during Tan’s tenure as CEO from 2008 to 2021.