Trump tightens grip on corporate America

Critics warn that Trump's demands for business leaders to step down and for the government to take a cut of sales threaten American style capitalism.

Trump tightens grip on corporate America while CEOs stay silent

Trump has stepped up pressure on large companies and their leaders, publicly attacking executives and proposing policy changes that would give the government a say in private affairs. One notable move is a 15 percent revenue share on Nvidia's China sales to ease access to that market, a demand that signals a new level of intervention in corporate decision making. The Treasury secretary suggested similar payments could follow from other firms, widening the scope of government leverage over private business.

The business community has largely avoided public political fights, preferring to lobby behind the scenes. Economists warn that this trend could erode the independence of corporate decision making and mark a shift toward what some describe as state influenced capitalism. While markets have not punished the moves and some executives have met with the president, the overall corporate stance remains cautious and restrained in public.

The dynamic here is less about a single policy and more about a shift in how politics and business interact. If government power over private sales becomes a standard tool, corporate autonomy could shrink and loyalties may tilt toward policy outcomes rather than long term strategy. That kind of influence risks rewarding cronyism and undermining trust among investors and workers alike.

Critics warn that the trend could redefine American capitalism in ways that critics on both sides of the aisle have long warned about. Yet some supporters argue that aggressive government measures could stabilize markets or protect national interests. The real test will be whether business leaders can mobilize publicly or collectively to demand clearer limits and protect independent judgment.

Highlights

As politics reach into boardrooms, the future of free enterprise may depend on a brave stand from the most influential companies.