BUSINESS
The Price of Allegiance: How Trump Loyalty is Hurting Businesses
USATue Jun 17 2025
Trump's influence is not just political; it's also economic. Companies that have chosen to align with Trump's views, particularly on diversity, have faced significant backlash. This backlash has come in the form of consumer boycotts and a drop in stock value. For instance, Target and Walmart have seen their stock values plummet by 17% and 18% respectively, after scaling back their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. This shows that consumers and investors care about a company's stance on social issues.
On the flip side, companies like Costco and Apple, which have stood firm on their DEI initiatives, have seen positive results. These companies argue that diversity brings in a wider range of employees, leading to more original and creative merchandise offerings. This, in turn, attracts more customers and increases profits. It's a simple equation: diversity equals profitability.
The legal world is not immune to this trend. Law firms that have refused to bow down to Trump's pressure have been rewarded with more clients. Meanwhile, those that have surrendered have seen key lawyers and partners leave. This is because corporate clients want to work with firms that have integrity and are not afraid to stand up for what's right. It's a clear message to CEOs and top managers: standing up to Trump is good for business.
Boycotts are a powerful tool. They have shown that consumers and investors have the power to influence corporate behavior. The boycotts against Target, Walmart, and Tesla are proof of this. These companies have had to face the consequences of their actions, and it's a lesson for others to learn from. It's not just about politics; it's about the bottom line.
The recent No Kings Day protests were a success. They showed that people are willing to stand up against Trump's bullying. But the fight is not over. Consumers and investors need to keep the pressure on. They need to boycott companies and firms that cave in to Trump and reward those that don't. It's not just about politics; it's about the future of our democracy.
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questions
How do companies that have maintained their DEI programs despite Trump's attacks compare in stock performance to those that have scaled back?
What specific metrics show that diversity is good for business, and how do these metrics translate to corporate profits?
How have consumer boycotts of companies like Target and Walmart affected their long-term market position and brand reputation?
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