Ford Motor Company spokesperson announced on Monday, December 23, that they will donate $1 million and a fleet of vehicles for President-elect Trump’s inauguration in January.
Ford joins a list of tech companies and billionaires in an effort to strengthen their relationship with the incoming President Trump.
Previously, companies like Amazon, Meta, OpenAI, and Perplexity each donated $1 million for Trump’s inauguration.
Last week, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman pledged $1 million, stating that Trump “will lead our nation into the era of artificial intelligence, and I am eager to support his efforts in ensuring that the US remains at the forefront.”
An Amazon spokesperson indicated that apart from the $1 million donation, they will also provide a physical donation through live streaming the presidential inauguration on Amazon’s video platform.
Artificial intelligence startup Perplexity mentioned they will offer a free version of their premium software to the government.
In 2017, Ford donated $250,000 to Trump’s inauguration fund, Amazon contributed $58,000 in cash and goods, while Meta did not donate to Trump’s first inauguration fund and did not donate to President Biden’s 2021 inauguration fund.
The significant donations from tech companies signify their efforts to mend or establish relationships with Trump. Trump has openly criticized top executives of some tech companies, particularly after being banned from certain social media platforms following the January 6th Capitol riot.
Earlier this year, Amazon founder Bezos posted on X platform, praising Trump’s “elegance and courage in the face of real fire tonight. Thankful for his safety and sadden for the victims and their families.” Bezos congratulated Trump on his victory, calling it an “extraordinary political comeback and decisive win.”
Last month, a Meta spokesperson mentioned that CEO Zuckerberg “appreciates President Trump’s invitation to dine with him and…meet with his team members to discuss the incoming government.” A Fox News report cited an aide to Trump saying that Zuckerberg believes Trump is “a catalyst for change and prosperity.”
Reports indicate that more donations are on their way. The Washington Post reported that Google CEO Sundar Pichai is scheduled to meet with Trump.
Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff, who also owns Time magazine, posted on X, stating, “This marks a hopeful moment for our country. We look forward to collaborating to advance success and prosperity for everyone in the US.”