In a recent essay published in The New York Times, Jeffrey Sonnenfeld, president of the Yale Chief Executive Leadership Institute, challenged the notion that Donald Trump is regaining the support of corporate America ahead of the 2024 presidential election. According to Sonnenfeld, CEOs have not flocked to Trump and continue to have reservations about his return to the White House.
Sonnenfeld pointed out that while some high-profile financiers like Steve Schwarzman and David Sacks have backed Trump, they are exceptions in the world of corporate America. Notably, no Fortune 100 chief executive has made donations to Trump this year. Sonnenfeld, who frequently speaks with CEOs, believes that while they may be hesitant about President Joe Biden’s second term, they are more concerned about Trump’s potential comeback.
Despite Sonnenfeld’s analysis, significant contributions have been made to Trump’s campaign. In May 2024 alone, he raised $141 million with substantial donations pouring in even after his conviction in the hush money trial. However, Sonnenfeld’s essay sheds light on the perspectives of top CEOs and their views on the political landscape leading up to the 2024 presidential election.
