Trump Calls Lip-Bu Tan to Resign from Intel

US President Donald Trump called Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan to immediately resign. Trump stated that Tan was highly conflicted amid concerns about alleged ties and investments with Chinese companies.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump wrote that there is no other solution to this problem than the departure of Tan. While the US President did not provide details on his concerns about Tan, US Republican senator Tom Cotton had sent a letter to Intel’s board chair Frank Yeary with questions about Tan’s relations with Chinese companies and legal issues around Cadence Design Systems. The now Intel boss served as CEO of the software company from 2009 until 2021.

Tan has reportedly invested in hundreds of Chinese companies himself, or through venture funds he operates. It appears a key concern for the US administration is the fact that some of these companies allegedly have links to the Chinese military. At least $200 million has been invested by Tan in Chinese advanced manufacturing and chip companies over 12 years up to December 2024. In his letter to Yeary, Cotton wrote: “Intel is required to be a responsible steward of the American taxpayer dollars and to comply with applicable security regulations. Mr Tan’s associations raise questions about Intel’s ability to fulfil these obligations.”

In a company statement, Tan said Intel was engaging with the Trump administration to address the matters that have been raised and ensure they have all the facts. “I fully share the President’s commitment to advancing US national and economic security,” he added. Tan also said he had operated within the highest legal and ethical standards during his 40 years in the industry, and the Intel board was fully supportive of the work being done to transform the company. Intel CEO is reportedly meeting with Trump today in the White House.