- Trump accuses Tan of conflicts over China investments and export violations at his former firm.
- Tan rejects the claims and says his record is legal and ethical.
What happened: Trump’s attack sends shockwaves through Intel
On 7 August 2025, Donald Trump demanded Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan resign. He called Tan “highly conflicted” because of past investments in Chinese firms and a settlement at Cadence Design Systems, where Tan was CEO. The settlement involved unauthorised sales to a Chinese military university.
Intel’s share price fell over 3 percent after the remarks. Tan emailed staff, calling the allegations “misinformation” and stressing his “40-plus years” of lawful, ethical work.
Intel’s board supports Tan. He will meet Trump at the White House on Monday to address the concerns and restate Intel’s role in US chip security.
Also read: Trump criticises AT&T for conference call glitch
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Why it’s important
This is a rare case of a president targeting the head of a major US tech company. It comes as Washington seeks to cut Chinese influence from sensitive industries.
Intel is central to US semiconductor plans and has received major government subsidies. The dispute risks shaking investor confidence and raising questions about political influence over corporate leadership.
Some analysts warn such pressure could hurt governance. Others say Intel could turn the crisis into a chance to prove its value to US security—if it can handle the political storm.
