Previous Yale CEO Summits haven’t matched the challenging context and positive outcomes of this week’s 150th summit.
The day after, 200 leading American CEOs, defying threats and intimidation, met at New York’s Ziegfield Ballroom—32 steps from where UnitedHealth CEO Brian Thompson was murdered—in a powerful show of support for leadership and American values.
Despite warnings from their boards and security teams against attending public events, they came. Neither far-left protestors outside the venue, nor online “wanted” posters deterred them.
This summit, held near the site of Thompson’s murder, occurred against the backdrop of President-elect Trump’s return to office. While most CEOs of major companies didn’t support Trump’s candidacy (only one Fortune 100 CEO donated to him), they recognize the election’s conclusion and the need for unity to support President Trump’s success for the benefit of the American public and their stakeholders.
Despite criticism from the far left, CEOs from various ideological positions see it as their patriotic duty to engage constructively with Trump and influence policy, even with reservations about some of his proposals.
Following discussions, including with some who recently met Trump at Mar-a-Lago, 69% of surveyed CEOs believe Trump’s nomination of RFK Jr. to lead Health & Human Services threatens public health and the pharmaceutical industry. They want to help inform the president-elect about the pharmaceutical industry’s positive impact on public health and lifespan.
Meanwhile, 56% believe Trump’s proposed tax cut from 21% to 15% will boost reshoring and domestic manufacturing, and 53% support his use of tariffs as a bargaining tool.
However, while 53% support Trump’s tariff threats, few are enthusiastic about their potential impact on their own companies. 55% expressed worry, 12% excitement, and 34% indifference. Yet, 64% aren’t adjusting supply chains, suggesting they doubt Trump will fully implement all his threatened tariffs.
The level of agreement and constructive engagement surprised us. Virtually all participants agreed on the American economy’s strength—77% believing America’s best days are ahead. They also affirmed the responsibility of CEOs visiting Mar-a-Lago in acting in the best interests of shareholders and the nation.
CEOs largely adopted a similar approach in 2016, assisting the incoming president despite many not supporting his campaign. Many hoped Trump would avoid the divisive tactics that alienated business leaders previously. The leadership displayed at the Yale CEO Summit and the spirit of collaboration demonstrate why American business leaders remain influential figures, despite criticism from extremists. At a time of increasing attacks on business leaders, CEOs and American capitalism offer a model of centrist, reasonable leadership that deserves recognition and appreciation.