Trump Praises Apple CEO Tim Cook in Recent Interview

In a recent interview with Bloomberg Businessweek, former President Donald Trump had some kind words for Apple CEO Tim Cook. The interview, published on Tuesday, took place at Mar-a-Lago in late June, just before the debate that was a disaster for his opponent, President Joe Biden, and before Trump survived an assassination attempt.

During the interview, Trump recounted an interaction he had with Cook back in 2019, when Trump announced tariffs of 25% on imports from China. Cook directly approached Trump to discuss the tariffs, which Trump said was "impressive." Trump remembered Cook saying, "I need help, you have tariffs of 25% and 50% [on Apple products imported from China]. It would really hurt our business. It would destroy our business, potentially."

Trump said he countered Cook by pressing Apple to manufacture in the US. "I said, ‘I’m gonna do something for you guys,’ but you have to build in this country,’" Trump said.

The two billionaires maintained a good working relationship during Trump’s presidency, but it hasn’t been all love between them. Cook appeared to distance himself following the January 6 Capitol riot, calling it "sad and shameful" and saying those responsible needed to be held accountable. However, Trump has previously praised Cook, saying he’s a "great executive because he calls me and others don’t" when there’s a problem.

In 2019, Trump said, "Others go out and hire very expensive consultants. Tim Cook calls Donald Trump directly." Cook later gifted Trump a $6,000 Mac Pro, and Apple announced it would begin construction on an Austin campus, although it’s unlikely Trump was responsible for getting it built.

The interview highlights the complex relationship between Trump and Cook, with both praising each other’s business acumen while also having differing views on various issues.