Trump backs Tim Cook to replace Jensen Huang as Nvidia CEO

Nvidia co-founder Jensen Huang resigned as chief executive, president and director on November 12, effective immediately. The board named finance chief Colette Kress as interim CEO the same day. Directors said they will consider candidates from inside and outside Nvidia for the permanent role.

Later that day, US President Donald Trump suggested on Truth Social that Nvidia hire Tim Cook. Trump praised Huang for doing a fantastic job and wrote that there was only one man to take his place, naming Cook. He later called Cook a legend succeeding another legend in a podcast interview.

“a legend succeeding another legend”

Trump said he had spoken by phone with Huang the previous day. According to Trump, Huang was struggling with the personal and human impact of the crisis on his family, though Trump expressed confidence that Huang would overcome it.

Cook has been Apple’s executive chairman since September 1, when he handed the CEO role to John Ternus. Cook still chairs Apple’s board and works with policymakers around the world. Apple announced the leadership change in April after unanimous board approval.

Nvidia’s board has the sole authority to choose its next CEO under Delaware corporate law and company bylaws. Trump’s endorsement gives Cook no formal role in the decision. Apple and Cook did not immediately respond to requests for comment, and there is no confirmation Nvidia approached Cook.

Nvidia’s announcement named no contenders for the permanent position. The board can select an existing executive or offer the job to someone outside the company. Any outside candidate would have to accept the offer before taking office.