Tech Leaders' Perceived Complicity in Political Influence Sparks Debate

A recent statement from independent media figure Eric Newcomer has ignited discussion regarding the alleged influence of Donald Trump on business and media sectors, and the perceived ethical stance of prominent corporate leaders. Newcomer asserted that Trump's power is contingent on the acquiescence of figures like Bob Iger and David Ellison, suggesting that government agencies, notably the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), are being leveraged for political ends.

"In business and media, Donald Trump is going to be as powerful as we let him be," Newcomer stated, adding, "if people like Bob Iger and David Ellison have their way, it would seem that Trump and the US government agencies that he’s turned into his political attack dogs — notably the Federal Communications Commission — are going to be extremely powerful indeed."

During his presidency, Trump's administration and the FCC, under his appointee Ajit Pai, faced scrutiny for policies affecting media. The FCC's repeal of net neutrality rules and its involvement in merger reviews, such as the blocked Sinclair Broadcast Group acquisition, were cited by critics as instances where regulatory actions could be perceived as having political implications. While former Disney CEO Bob Iger resigned from Trump's business advisory council in 2017 over policy disagreements, Newcomer's critique highlights a broader concern about corporate leaders' responses to political pressures.

Newcomer's commentary also questioned the ethical choices of wealthy elites, referencing the "priceless line from Billions" about "fuck-you money." He expressed surprise at the apparent lack of a unified, strategic counter-movement from Democratic-leaning tech investors, contrasting it with Peter Thiel's "shrewd" and early backing of Trump. Thiel, a prominent venture capitalist, has continued to support the broader conservative movement, focusing his political spending on candidates aligned with his anti-establishment views, a strategy Newcomer described as effective.

While figures like Reid Hoffman, Ron Conway, and Garry Tan are known Democratic donors and have been critical of Trump, Newcomer suggested they have "kept their heads down" rather than forming a cohesive opposition akin to Thiel's approach. The independent media figure concluded by emphasizing the "dark cloud looming over our country," arguing that Trump's authoritarianism is "warping the behavior of otherwise rational and well-meaning tech industry leaders, not to mention regular citizens." The statement underscores a growing debate about the intersection of corporate power, political influence, and ethical responsibility in a polarized environment.