US senators question big tech, including Apple, on the reason behind inauguration donations
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Apple didn't donate to the inauguration directly. Image source: Apple. Apple may not have donated directly, but CEO Tim Cook joined other big tech companies in donating $1 million to Trump's inauguration fund, and senators have concerns about corruption.
It's been no secret that tech companies like Google, Microsoft, Meta, and Amazon are concerned about how the incoming administration will view so-called "big tech." Many major tech companies have contributed at least $1 million to the Trump inauguration fund, and many CEOs and billionaires will be present, which is a departure from previous inaugurations.
According to a report from The Verge, the significance of unusually large donations for this presidency isn't lost on US Senator Elizabeth Warren and Michael Bennet. They question the motive behind the donations and worry that it is a sign of corruption.
"You have a clear and direct interest in obtaining favors from the incoming administration: your company and many other Big Tech donors are already the subject of ongoing federal investigations and regulatory actions," the lawmakers write. "These donations raise questions about corruption and the influence of corporate money on the Trump administration, and Congress and the public deserve answers.".
Data shows that previous donations were significantly smaller by comparison for the Biden inauguration four years ago. Meta didn't donate at all, Google provided $337,500, and Apple donated only $43,200. It is worth noting that this scrutiny from senators may be one of the several reasons why Apple CEO Tim Cook donated the $1 million personally from his funds. Apple hasn't contributed any of its finances to the inauguration fund.
