Are Business Leaders Preparing for a Possible Second Trump Presidency?
As the presidential race approaches its climax next week, a notable trend among corporate leaders has emerged: an unusual silence regarding the election. This quietude has not gone unnoticed, with Donald Trump’s camp interpreting it as a potential sign that corporate America is bracing for his possible victory.
Recent reports indicate that influential business figures, particularly from Silicon Valley, have begun reaching out to the former president. This outreach seems aimed at rebuilding relationships and safeguarding their interests should Trump triumph over Vice President Kamala Harris.
Business leaders are reportedly strategizing for a potential Trump comeback. At a recent meeting of the Business Council, an exclusive group of C.E.O.s, discussions centered around proactive measures to take in the event that Trump targets those he perceives as adversaries. According to The Washington Post, one Trump adviser emphasized the urgency of engagement: “I’ve advised C.E.O.s to act swiftly because the clock is ticking. If you’ve endorsed Harris and we don’t hear from you until after the election, you’ll face significant challenges.”
Tech giants are among those seeking to mend fences. In recent weeks, Trump has revealed that he has had conversations with key figures such as Tim Cook of Apple, Sundar Pichai of Alphabet, and Mark Zuckerberg. Furthermore, sources indicate that Andy Jassy of Amazon has also made contact. The rationale behind this renewed communication is straightforward: many of these companies have been targets of Trump’s criticisms, and re-establishing rapport serves as a strategic move to cushion against potential fallout should he reclaim the presidency. An anonymous source mentioned that Jassy’s outreach, initiated at Amazon’s request, was more of a cordial exchange than a formal negotiation.