Trump backs Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang after affair confirmed amid spy inquiry
Trump expresses support
Trump told reporters Sunday that he considered Huang an honorable person and suggested he might have an explanation for his conduct. He was answering a question about whether he wished he had acted sooner on intelligence concerning the affair.
Trump said he had not discussed the matter with Huang. He also praised Huang’s contribution to the United States and said he should continue leading Nvidia.
Huang acknowledges infidelity
Huang had earlier described his connection with Alice Huang as a normal business relationship. Alice Huang is a Chinese business executive who buys Nvidia chips and is not related to the company’s CEO.
Reported Chinese spy plot
The New York Times reported late last month that US intelligence agencies had assessed Huang was the target of a Chinese spy operation. The report said Alice Huang had formed a close relationship with him and shared information with Beijing.
Board reviews available information
Nvidia’s board said Sunday it had no reason to believe national security or company secrets had been compromised. It said the investigation would assess available information and that Huang was cooperating.
Huang has become a prominent participant in Washington’s debate over restrictions on chip exports to China. He has argued that tight limits on US sales could help Chinese rivals grow faster.
Key points
- Trump backed Huang and said he should remain Nvidia’s CEO.
- Huang told employees he had been unfaithful and that his actions hurt his family.
- Nvidia’s board is investigating whether a foreign intelligence agency targeted Huang.
- The board said it had no reason to believe secrets or national security were compromised.