In recent weeks, Mar-a-Lago has become a “center stage” for America’s corporate elite as CEOs from various industries meet with President-elect Donald Trump. Kevin O’Leary believes most of them are “sucking up to Trump” because the President-elect could create “good times” for businesses.
Business leaders have been lining up to connect with DJT, who has framed his return as a pro-business presidency. The pace of these high-profile meetings has accelerated since his election victory over Kamala Harris in early November, with executives keen to build relationships with the incoming administration.
Kevin O’Leary, chairman of O’Leary Ventures, weighed in on this surge in CEO activity, suggesting that leaders are motivated by Trump’s pro-business stance and anticipated policies. Speaking on The Evening Edit, O’Leary highlighted two key reasons behind this trend: A stable corporate tax rate of 21% and the promise of deregulation.
“This is a phenomenal platform for Trump. Everybody knows he’s pro-business,” O’Leary said. “All of a sudden, CEOs want to suck up to Trump in a very big way because he’s got the power, the mandate, and the reach.”
Kevin O’Leary: ‘I’m licking my own chops right now’
In the interview, O’Leary drew attention to the improved economic outlook following Trump’s electoral victory. A recent survey indicates a surge in global economic confidence. This is a stark contrast to concerns during President Joe Biden’s term, which O’Leary criticized for policies that burdened American households.
The O’Leary Ventures chairman, popularly known as Mr Fantastic, highlighted the speed at which Trump is addressing economic issues. He described his approach as a reflection of what voters demanded.
“This mandate is going to be way better than the last one, a lot more stable and very good for business,” O’Leary remarked. “I’m licking my own chops right now. These are good times.”
O’Leary noted that the Republican Party’s control of both chambers of Congress alongside the presidency bolsters confidence among business leaders.
A cross-industry pilgrimage to Mar-a-Lago
Executives from leading companies, including Netflix’s Ted Sarandos and Amazon’s Jeff Bezos, have visited Trump at his Mar-a-Lago resort. Sarandos, a long-time Democratic donor, and Bezos are among the many leaders signaling a willingness to work with the incoming administration, even as they navigate past political divides.
TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew, facing a potential US ban on the popular app, met with Trump earlier this week. Meanwhile, leaders from Apple, Google, and Meta are reportedly seeking a more favorable regulatory environment under the new administration.
Moreover, Wall Street executives anticipate a reversal of policies they deemed anti-business under Biden, particularly on taxes and antitrust issues.
Trump adviser Jason Miller described these meetings as a “vote of confidence” in the president-elect and his economic policies.
“Some of these CEOs are showing that they will be willing partners in the upcoming administration, even if they have not been politically supportive in the past,” Miller said. He added that many more domestic and international CEOs are expected to follow suit.
Despite their enthusiasm, corporate leaders harbor reservations about some aspects of Trump’s agenda, including potential sweeping tariffs and changes to manufacturing subsidies. However, executives see Trump as a dealmaker who responds well to flattery and engagement, making it a pragmatic choice to foster relationships rather than risk public rebukes.
Nikki Haley, a former Republican presidential candidate and now vice-chair at consultancy Edelman, urged CEOs to embrace the opportunity to engage with Trump.
“It’s good to let him know what you’re working on, how you’re growing business,” Haley said, emphasizing the value of face time with the president-elect. “I’m not talking to any CEOs that are fearful of Trump,” she added.
Corporate America’s efforts to align with the incoming administration extend beyond meetings. Companies like OpenAI, along with financial institutions such as Bank of America and Goldman Sachs, are contributing to Trump’s inauguration, signaling extensive support from the business community.
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