Apple CEO Tim Cook has expressed his well-wishes following a shooting incident at a Trump rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. "I pray for President Trump’s rapid recovery. My thoughts are with him, the other victims, and the Trump family," Cook wrote on social media platform X. "I strongly condemn this violence."
The incident occurred in the middle of the rally when a gunman opened fire. According to Trump, who posted about the event on social media, he was “shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear.” Reports indicate that one rallygoer was killed and two others are in serious condition. The suspected gunman is also dead. Trump's campaign has stated that the former president is “fine.”
Cook and Trump had multiple interactions during Trump's presidency, with the Apple CEO both receiving praise from Trump and criticizing his policies and actions, notably the January 6 insurrection. Cook has consistently emphasized the importance of engaging in dialogue, even when there are disagreements.
Responses from other tech executives have also been swift and supportive. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg wrote on Threads, "Praying for a quick recovery for President Trump. This is such a sad day for our country. Political violence undermines democracy and must always be condemned."
Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, shared on X, "I fully endorse President Trump and hope for his rapid recovery. Last time America had a candidate this tough was Theodore Roosevelt."
Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai stated, "I’m wishing President Trump a speedy recovery. I’m shocked by today’s shooting and loss of life. Political violence is intolerable, and we must all come together to strongly oppose it."
Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky expressed his horror at the violence, saying, "I’m horrified by today’s political violence, and I’m thankful President Trump wasn’t seriously injured. My thoughts are with him and his family."
Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella emphasized the need to reject violence, adding, "There is simply no place for any type of violence in our society. Sending my best wishes to President Trump for a speedy recovery and to all those impacted by today’s horrific event."
The tech community's responses highlight a unified stance against political violence and a call for unity and dialogue in the face of such tragedies.
