Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg joined U.S. President-elect Donald Trump for dinner at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida on Wednesday, hinting at a potential thaw in their historically tense relationship. According to an advisor close to the 78-year-old president-elect, the 40-year-old tech executive expressed a desire to “support the national renewal of America” as the country adjusts to its evolving political landscape.
The relationship between Trump and Zuckerberg has been rocky, especially after Facebook and other social media platforms banned Trump following the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot. However, a Meta spokesperson acknowledged Zuckerberg’s appreciation for the dinner invitation, highlighting it as an opportunity to engage with the incoming administration.
“Mark was grateful for the chance to meet with President Trump and his team to discuss the future of American innovation,” the spokesperson noted in a statement. Despite speculation, it remains uncertain whether Tesla CEO Elon Musk, often seen at Mar-a-Lago since the election and known for his public feud with Zuckerberg, was also present.
Stephen Miller, set to become Trump’s deputy chief of staff for policy, told Fox News that Zuckerberg has been outspoken in his support for America’s resurgence under Trump’s leadership. “He’s made it clear he wants to be part of this transformation sweeping the nation,” Miller said.
Following Trump’s recent electoral victory, prominent figures in the tech industry have voiced their support more openly, with Zuckerberg among the first to extend congratulations. Prior to the election, Zuckerberg had paused his election-related philanthropic efforts, and Meta adjusted its platform algorithms to downplay political content.
In the past, Zuckerberg contributed significant funds to support non-profits strengthening U.S. electoral infrastructure during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, these contributions became a point of contention after Trump’s 2020 loss to Joe Biden, with Trump alleging, without evidence, that the funds were part of a scheme to influence the election outcome.
