US President Donald Trump demanded Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan resign immediately. Trump cited serious conflicts of interest. He linked Tan to Chinese companies.
Trump posted on social media. He stated Tan was “highly conflicted.” He believed Tan could no longer lead the US chip firm. Trump felt investments in firms tied to China’s military caused this. It’s rare for a US president to directly ask for a company leader’s removal.
Tan became Intel’s CEO in March 2025. His main goal was to help Intel compete again. Intel was an early chip industry leader. However, it fell behind its rivals recently. The company also got billions in government funds. This helps US chip production.
Intel defended Tan after Trump’s remarks. The company stated its US investments align with national security goals. Intel also said Tan and the board support US leadership in semiconductors.
Tan is a US citizen. He was born in Malaysia and grew up in Singapore. He has a long history in the chip sector. He is a respected venture capitalist. Recently, Tan said Intel would cut some factory investments. This includes US sites. The cuts would match current market needs.
Intel already cut thousands of jobs this year. This was part of the cost-saving steps. After Trump’s comments, Intel shares fell over 3%.
Senator Tom Cotton also questioned Tan. Cotton wrote to Intel’s board. He said Tan’s past ties could risk handling government funds. He also raised security concerns.
Cotton mentioned Tan’s time at Cadence Design Systems. That firm paid a large fine. It involved breaking US export rules with China. Tan faced no charges. But this raised questions about his links.
Reports show Tan invested in many Chinese companies. Some had military ties. He made these investments personally. Or through his funds. This happened from 2012 to late 2024.
Some analysts think Trump’s criticism might relate to Intel’s plans. Or a possible partnership with TSMC. Expert Patrick Moorhead suggested Trump might be trying to influence Intel on other matters.
Trump often criticizes business leaders publicly. But this direct call for Tan’s resignation is unusual. The White House stated that Trump wants US companies to be led by trustworthy people. They should protect national interests.
This political pressure adds to Intel’s problems. The company aims to increase US chip output. This is seen as key to US tech independence. Leaders worry that instability could slow progress. The global chip competition is heating up.
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