Tim Cook has Trump on speed dial

By

President Trump: Apple encryption could protect ‘criminal minds’
Tim Cook has no problem picking up the iPhone to call President Trump.
Photo: Gage Skidmore/Flickr CC

President Donald Trump and Tim Apple, err, Tim Cook are BFFs. Well, according to Trump at least.

Describing Cook as a “great executive,” Trump says the Apple CEO isn’t afraid to pick up the phone and call whenever there’s something on his mind. “He calls me, and others don’t,” Trump said, comparing Cook to other execs.

Trump was speaking with reporters outside the White House. “Others go out and hire very expensive consultants,” Trump said. “Tim Cook calls Donald Trump directly.”

The president also addressed concerns about tariffs on the importing of electronic devices, including the iPhone. Cook previously raised concerns that Trump’s tariffs would hurt Apple while not affecting rivals like Samsung. Trump wound up pushing back some China tariffs so they will not hamper 2019 holiday sales.

“The problem was that Samsung, a competitor, his competitor, wouldn’t be paying tariffs, and Tim Cook would,” Trump said. “I gotta help him out short-term, because it’s a great American company.”

Tim Cook and Donald Trump: For the good of the business

In reality, calling Trump and Cook good friends is pushing it. On the one hand, Trump publicly praises Cook. However, the president also criticizes Apple. The possibility of China tariffs, anti-encryption laws and possibly breaking up tech giants also could hurt Apple.

Cook remains a staunch Democrat. At one point, he was even considered as a possible running mate for Hillary Clinton in the 2016 elections. But just like any bottom-line-oriented executive, Cook will put aside differences to help his business.

Recently, Cook joined Trump for dinner at the Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster, New Jersey. From the sound of things, he’s been rewarded by having much more access to the president than many executives could hope for.

Source: CNBC

Newsletters

Daily round-ups or a weekly refresher, straight from Cult of Mac to your inbox.

  • The Weekender

    The week's best Apple news, reviews and how-tos from Cult of Mac, every Saturday morning. Our readers say: "Thank you guys for always posting cool stuff" -- Vaughn Nevins. "Very informative" -- Kenly Xavier.