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Tim Cook shocks Trump with 24K gold and glass statue during White House event, internet says it's corruption in broad daylight

Tim Cook shocks Trump with 24K gold and glass statue during White House event, internet says it's corruption in broad daylight

Economic Times19 hours ago
During a White House event highlighting Apple's U.S. manufacturing plans, CEO Tim Cook gifted US President Donald Trump a custom glass-and-gold statue. Made by Corning and designed by a former Marine at Apple, the engraved disc features Trump's name, a gold base from Utah, and Cook's signature—symbolizing Apple's American-made innovation.
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What was the gift made out of?
A tribute a day keeps the mad king away!
Tim Cook of Apple bends the knee to Trump. Another elite showing their true cowardice. pic.twitter.com/ZMPwUPVcQ6 undefined Home of the Brave (@OfTheBraveUSA) August 6, 2025
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Why did Apple give it to President Donald Trump?
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Is there a bigger meaning behind the move?
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Apple is apparently making headlines for reasons other than a product launch. CEO Tim Cook surprised President Donald Trump with a personalized 24-karat gold and glass tribute at the White House. The one-of-a-kind gift was presented at a press event highlighting Apple's manufacturing efforts in the United States. And, yes, it is engraved, personalized, and filled with symbolism.This happened at a White House press event that was all about Apple's efforts to make things in the U.S. The present isn't the usual time for a business handshake.The engraved disc, created by Corning and designed by a former Marine at Apple, features Trump's name, a gold base from Utah, and Cook's signature, representing Apple's American-made innovation, as per a report by The Verge.The disc was made of clear Corning glass and had the Apple logo carved into it. Trump's name was carved across the top, and the words "Made in USA" were carved into the bottom.Corning made the centerpiece. They are the same company that makes the super-tough glass that goes into iPhones. The gold base came from Utah and gives the whole gesture a literal golden foundation as well as a luxurious finish.Cook says that the fact that a former U.S. Marine Corps corporal who now works at Apple designed the piece is even more impressive. This is a nod to both American craftsmanship and veterans in tech.Tim Cook signed the glass disc and wrote the date 2025 on it, which is a nice personal touch and a way to show your patriotism, as per a report by The Verge.The timing is not a coincidence. Apple wants to move more of its production to the U.S., and Trump has long pushed U.S. tech companies to bring jobs back home. This gift was a symbolic olive branch and a smart PR move.It's also important to note that Tim Cook has a reputation for being able to work well with President Trump without being rude. Many top executives have actually read Cook's book on how to stay true to business interests while also getting involved in politics, as per a report by The Verge.The statue wasn't just a showy gesture; it was a smart one. Apple made itself look both innovative and patriotic by focusing on American design, manufacturing, and veterans. At the same time, it showed that the company was still committed to making things in the US, as per a report by The Verge.A personalized Corning glass disc with a 24K gold base featuring the Apple logo.To honor Apple's manufacturing push in the United States while also strengthening ties with Trump.
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