Intel Stock Drops After Trump Calls for CEO’s Immediate Resignation
Intel stock took a sharp hit on a Thursday, falling nearly 5% in premarket trading. President Trump demanded that CEO Lip-Bu Tan resign immediately, calling him “highly CONFLICTED” due to reported ties to Chinese companies. This news, paired with Senator Tom Cotton’s concerns, has rattled the stock market and sparked questions about Intel’s future.
The uproar began when Trump spoke out, pointing to Tan’s alleged links to firms tied to China’s Communist Party and military. Just one day earlier, Cotton had sent a letter to Intel’s board, questioning Tan’s fit as CEO and Intel’s ability to handle its $8 billion grant under the CHIPS Act.
This sudden drop in Intel stock matters because it ties into bigger issues. It’s not just about one company; it’s about trust in American tech and national security.
Trump’s Demand Shakes Intel Stock
President Trump didn’t hold back on Thursday. He called for Lip-Bu Tan to step down as Intel’s CEO, citing his supposed connections to Chinese companies. This bold move sent Intel stock tumbling almost 5% before the market even opened.
Trump’s words carried weight because they tapped into fears about foreign influence. He argued that Tan’s ties could harm Intel and U.S. interests in the tech world. The stock market felt the impact right away, showing how fast investors respond to such news.
Senator Cotton Questions Intel’s Leadership
Senator Tom Cotton added fuel to the fire. On Wednesday, he wrote to Intel’s board, raising red flags about Tan’s past and present. Cotton worried that Tan’s alleged links to Chinese firms could threaten Intel’s role in the CHIPS Act.
Cotton didn’t stop there. He brought up a criminal case tied to Cadence Design, where Tan was CEO until 2021. This history now casts a shadow over Intel and its stock market standing.
How Intel Stock Reacted
The numbers tell a clear story. Intel stock dropped nearly 5% in premarket trading after Trump’s statement hit the news. Investors saw risk and acted, reflecting unease about Intel’s direction.
This wasn’t a small blip. The stock market often shrugs off minor news, but this decline showed real concern. Analysts say the drop hints at deeper worries about leadership and stability at Intel.
Who Is Lip-Bu Tan?
Lip-Bu Tan stepped into Intel’s CEO role in March. Before that, he led Cadence Design, a tech firm, until 2021. His resume looked strong, but now it’s under a microscope.
Tan’s past at Cadence included a criminal case that Cotton flagged. Add in the claims of Chinese ties, and Tan’s leadership is a hot topic for Intel and the stock market. His next steps could shape the company’s path.

The CHIPS Act Grant at Risk
Intel scored an $8 billion grant under the CHIPS Act to boost U.S. chip-making. Now, Cotton’s letter questions if Tan’s leadership puts that funding in jeopardy. If the allegations stick, Intel might face tough choices.
The CHIPS Act aims to keep America ahead in tech. A stumble here could ripple through the stock market and beyond. Intel needs to prove it can deliver, or the grant could slip away.
What Investors Are Watching
Investors aren’t just looking at Intel stock prices. They’re tracking how the company handles this mess. Leadership changes or policy shifts could sway the stock’s future.
The stock market hates uncertainty. Intel’s response, whether it’s defending Tan or replacing him, will set the tone. For now, all eyes are on the company’s next move.
Final Thoughts
The plunge in Intel stock after Trump’s demand shows how fast trust can shake a company. Cotton’s letter and the CHIPS Act stakes make this more than a one-day story. Intel must act wisely to calm the stock market and protect its future.
Disclaimer:
This is for information only, not financial advice. Always do your research.