US President Donald Trump on Thursday called for the immediate resignation of Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan, alleging a serious conflict of interest over his reported ties to Chinese firms.

In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump wrote: “The CEO of INTEL is highly CONFLICTED and must resign, immediately. There is no other solution to this problem.”

Trump’s comments came a day after Republican Senator Tom Cotton reportedly wrote a letter to Intel’s board chair Frank Yeary, questioning Tan’s business ties in China and citing national security risks.

Cotton’s letter followed reports that Tan, during his time as CEO of Cadence Design Systems, had links to Chinese firms now under scrutiny in a criminal case.

Lip-Bu Tan’s appointment as Intel CEO 

Lip-Bu Tan, a former Intel board member and well-known chip industry veteran, was named Intel’s CEO in March. His appointment came as the chip giant continues to battle investor scepticism after ousting previous CEO Pat Gelsinger.

Gelsinger’s ambitious plan to revitalise Intel with costly investments in chip design and manufacturing had been faltering, prompting the board to look for new leadership.

Tan’s appointment had earlier been seen as a strategic move due to his vast experience and deep connections in the tech and chipmaking ecosystem. Reports said Intel’s board approached him in December last year to explore interest in the top job.

However, Senator Cotton’s letter now casts a shadow over that appointment, referencing subpoenas sent to Cadence Design during Tan’s tenure and asking whether Intel’s board had factored that into their hiring decision.

Federal funding scrutiny and Chinese ties

Senator Cotton also highlighted Intel’s receipt of federal funding, arguing that the company must be a “responsible steward of American taxpayer dollars” and adhere to all relevant national security laws.

He questioned whether Tan disclosed all necessary details about his investments, professional roles, or affiliations with Chinese firms before being appointed. As of now, Intel has not issued any official comment on either President Trump’s remarks or Senator Cotton’s letter.