The event marked a significant evolution from Trump’s historically contentious relationship with Big Tech, reflecting the industry’s recognition that cooperation with the administration serves their business interests in an increasingly competitive global technology landscape.
The Microsoft cofounder and philanthropist, who sat next to first lady Melania Trump, discussed his work in advancing health care and vaccine technology, expressing his desire to collaborate with Trump in moving “American innovation to the next level” to cure diseases like sickle cell anemia and AIDS. Despite policy disagreements in the past, Gates praised Trump for his “incredible leadership.”
