Former Rep. Mondaire Jones (D-N.Y.) contended that the financial contributions from tech companies to President-elect Trump do not pose any any “harm.” Speaking on a CNN panel, he remarked, “To these guys, a million dollars is nothing, right? Because it literally is nothing to these guys. … I think there is a very strong business case to be made for them doing what they’re doing.”
As the incoming Trump administration prepares to take office, Jones pointed out that the tech industry is under scrutiny. His comments come despite efforts from leaders of major tech firms to foster positive relationships with Trump before his inauguration.
Both Meta and Amazon announced they would donate $1 million each to Trump’s inauguration fund, while Sam Altman of OpenAI indicated he would contribute a similar amount from his personal finances.
Mark Zuckerberg’s Mar-a-Lago meeting with Trump signals a thaw in their previously contentious relationship
Earlier, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg met with Trump at his Mar-a-Lago estate, despite their previously contentious relationship following Trump’s temporary ban from Facebook after the 2021 Capitol attack.
Jones noted that Republican leaders claim “conservative censorship” is prevalent on social media platforms, suggesting that it is essential for these companies to appeal to Trump as he prepares for another term.
While some may find this situation troubling, Jones asserted that, from a purely business perspective, it makes sense for companies to act in this manner, regardless of the ethical implications. “That may make people uncomfortable, but as a strictly business matter, I think it’s the appropriate thing to do, as horrifying as it is that you have to bend the knee in this way about profit over people,” he said.
Jones’s comments sparked a lively debate among the panelists, prompting CNN’s Abby Phillip to intervene and quiet other guests. Although donations to a president’s inaugural fund are not unusual, concerns have emerged regarding the implications of Trump’s financial backing. Critics view this strategy as part of a larger effort to align with Trump, especially as he solidifies ties with X CEO Elon Musk.
Despite objections from some panelists who highlighted the potential issues with donations from companies employing many Americans, Jones maintained that the situation is not as dire as others suggest. “I just want to say that giving a couple million dollars to the inaugural committee is not doing the kind of harm that you guys are talking about,” he stated.
