Intel CEO to Visit White House Amid Trump Resignation Demand

Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan is scheduled to visit the White House on Monday, following President Donald Trump’s demand for his resignation over alleged ties to Chinese businesses. The meeting, confirmed by a source familiar with the matter, comes as Tan seeks to address concerns raised by Trump and Sen. Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), who questioned Tan’s suitability to lead the U.S. chipmaker.

Trump’s call for Tan’s removal, made last week on Truth Social, cited “highly conflicted” connections to China, referencing Tan’s reported investments in hundreds of Chinese firms, some linked to the military. Cotton’s letter to Intel’s board highlighted a $140 million settlement by Tan’s former company, Cadence Design Systems, for selling chip design tools to a Chinese military university. Tan, who took over as CEO in March 2025, has faced scrutiny amid Intel’s strategic reset and its role in the Secure Enclave program, which relies on federal funding to secure U.S. microelectronics.

The White House visit follows Tan’s statement on August 8, where he pledged to work with the U.S. administration to clarify concerns and ensure accurate information. The meeting is seen as an opportunity for Tan to defend his record, outline Intel’s commitment to national security, and propose collaboration with the government. Intel shares have experienced volatility, dropping over 3% last week before a slight rebound, reflecting market uncertainty.

The development coincides with broader efforts to protect U.S. tech infrastructure from foreign influence, including Sen. Rick Scott’s recent Protect the Grid Act targeting Chinese smart device risks. No specific outcomes from the meeting have been disclosed, leaving its impact on Intel’s leadership and strategy uncertain.