Commerce Secretary Lutnick Meets Tim Cook in Washington, Praises His Leadership

U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick met with Apple CEO Tim Cook in Washington today, taking the opportunity to praise Cook's track record as he prepares for a leadership transition this fall.



The Commerce Department shared a photo of the two men on X. The agency's official account highlighted Cook's time running one of America's most iconic companies, noting his "extraordinary vision, discipline, and innovation." Lutnick used the meeting to wish Cook well and recognize his lasting impact on the domestic technology sector.


Cook is preparing to hand the CEO role over to hardware chief John Ternus on September 1, as previously reported. He isn't leaving Cupertino completely, though. He plans to take on a new position as executive chairman of the board. During a recent all-hands meeting, Cook reassured employees that he intends to stay in that chairman role for a long time, shifting his daily focus primarily toward global policy and government relations.

The meeting comes as the U.S. continues to push the tech industry to expand domestic manufacturing. Lutnick has been pressuring semiconductor companies to move more production back to the United States, including warnings of potential tariffs for those that fall short of domestic sourcing goals. Apple has already begun adjusting its strategy, recently confirming plans to assemble the Mac mini in Texas and committing to purchase over 100 million chips from TSMC's Arizona fabs this year.