As Tim Cook steps down as Apple CEO, what he did for Trump goes viral — here’s the breakdown and how the President responded

Tim Cook Trump viral moment: As Tim Cook prepares to step down as Apple’s CEO on September 1, attention has quickly shifted from the leadership transition to his long-standing relationship with US president Donald Trump. With Cook moving into the role of Executive Chairman, his past interactions with the president are once again drawing widespread attention.

Why Tim Cook’s role as Executive Chairman still matters

Apple said that Cook will hand over the CEO role to John Ternus, the company’s hardware chief. Even after stepping down, Cook is expected to remain closely involved, particularly in engaging with policymakers around the world.

This continued role matters, especially as Apple navigates tariffs, geopolitical tensions, and broader economic uncertainty.

Tim Cook and Donald Trump: A relationship that shaped Apple’s strategy

Over the years, Cook maintained a positive relationship with Trump, something that became increasingly important as Apple dealt with tariffs and manufacturing shifts. The company managed to navigate some of these challenges through exemptions and strategic changes.

The 24-karat gold plaque controversy explained

Cook’s ties to Trump also drew attention from critics. At one point, he attended the White House and presented a 24-karat gold-based plaque to the president, around the time Apple secured a tariff exemption, as per a Benzinga report. The moment even became a punchline on an episode of South Park.

He also attended a private screening of the “Melania” documentary alongside political leaders and business executives.

Robert Reich’s claims about Tim Cook and Apple’s political links

Robert Reich, a Berkeley professor and former Secretary of Labor, pointed out in an X post that, "Tim Cook donated $1M to Trump’s inauguration. He fawned over Trump and gifted him a 24-karat gold plaque (as Apple lobbied for tariff exemptions)," adding that, "Apple donated to Trump’s ballroom. And it removed ICE tracking apps from its stores after a demand from the DOJ."

Trump’s repeated praise of Tim Cook and Apple’s US investments

Trump has repeatedly praised Cook in public. In October 2025, he told a room of business leaders, “You’ve done more than the entire group here,” while highlighting Apple’s US investments, including its American Manufacturing Program.

The viral “Tim Apple” nickname and its origins

Meanwhile, Trump’s nickname “Tim Apple” resurfaced again today. In a Truth Social post, the US president congratulated Cook but also recalled their early interactions in his own style.

The nickname itself dates back to a 2019 White House meeting, when Trump referred to him as “Tim Apple,” a moment that quickly went viral, as per a Business Insider report. Cook later joked about it by briefly changing his Twitter display name to "Tim" alongside the Apple logo.

How did Trump respond to Cook stepping down

He described receiving a call from Cook during his first term, saying he was impressed to have “the head of Apple calling,” and added that he had given Cook “3 or 4 BIG HELPS” during his time in office.

Trump said in his post that, "When I got the call I said, wow, it’s Tim Apple (Cook!) calling, how big is that? I was very impressed with myself to have the head of Apple calling to 'kiss my ass.'"

What Tim Cook’s exit means for Apple investors

Cook’s continued involvement as Executive Chairman may ease concerns among investors, especially given how closely business outcomes can be tied to government relationships.

Some investors have questioned whether a new CEO could maintain the same level of political connections in both the US and China, as per the Benzinga report. Cook staying on in a policy-facing role could help provide continuity during a sensitive period.

FAQs

When is Tim Cook stepping down as Apple CEO?
He will step down on September 1.

Who will replace Tim Cook as CEO?
Apple’s hardware chief, John Ternus, will take over.