Late Wednesday night, Intel CEO Brian Krzanich took to Twitter to say "I do not intend to endorse any presidential candidate. We are interested in engaging both campaigns in open dialogue on issues in technology."
The declaration might appear to have been made out of nowhere. But it followed reports in the media that Krzanich had planned to host a fundraiser for Donald Trump at his home Thursday -- plans that were later scrapped. In an article about the presumptive GOP nominee's "minimal" support in Silicon Valley, the New York Times reported the fundraiser as well as the news that hours later, Intel said the event was cancelled. Another media report said the fundraiser for a candidate known for his anti-immigrant stances prompted "significant outrage within the ranks at Intel." The tech giant has not only touted its significant investments in improving diversity, but was long led by industry icon Andy Grove, who was himself an immigrant and who died earlier this year.
