Last yearApple CEO Tim Cook presented President Donald Trump with a plaque with a 24-karat gold base and attended a White House dinner in which he addressed the room for two minutes, and during that time he repeated the words “thank you” to Trump nine times.
Last Saturday eveninghe met Trump again, this time at a screening of a flattering documentary about First Lady Melania Trump. No, Apple did not make or even license the film. His competitor didbut Cook attended the screening anyway.
This could lead to concerns that Cook does not recognize the seriousness of what federal agents are currently doing in Minneapolis. Regardless of one’s politics, it’s pretty easy to talk about the horrific deaths of Renée Good and Alex Pretti at the hands of federal troops, at least in somewhat human terms. Even Ted Cruz I managed to talk about Good at one point without coming across as a total monster.
Tim Cook’s strange attendance at the cinema could, if I didn’t know better, be an indication that he is not reading what is going on in the theater very well and that I may not have a clear view of political events, for example the growing number of his comrades. Figures favorable to Trump ready to speak frankly about the obvious excessive violence occurring amid the ICE crackdown in Minneapolis.
But fortunately, Cook issued a statement to Apple employees in which he says: “It’s time for de-escalation.” Don’t you feel better already?
Oddly enough, Trump used similar language earlier todaysaying “We’re going to de-escalate a little.”
Cook’s statement does not mention ICE or other federal agencies, nor the names of anyone who died, nor does it specify anything beyond the word “Minneapolis.” But that doesn’t mean it’s pure stupidity meant to praise its employees and nothing more. After all, Cook says he had “a good conversation with the president this week in which I shared my views.” So we can all rest easy knowing that Trump is finally chastised.
Here is the full statement (originally leaked to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman Tuesday evening):
Team,
I am heartbroken by the events in Minneapolis, and my prayers and deepest sympathies go out to the families, communities and all those affected.
The time has come for de-escalation. I believe America is stronger when we live up to our highest ideals, when we treat everyone with dignity and respect, no matter who they are or where they come from, and when we embrace our common humanity. This is something Apple has always stood for. I had a good conversation with the President this week in which I shared my views and appreciate his openness to engaging on issues that matter to us all.
I know this is very emotional and difficult for many people. I’m proud of the importance our teams place on the world beyond our walls. This empathy is one of Apple’s greatest strengths and I think it’s something we all cherish.
Thank you for everything you do.
Tim
