In a revealing conversation that has caught the attention of the tech and political worlds, Nvidia's Chief Executive Jensen Huang offered unexpected praise for former US President Donald Trump, describing him as an attentive and practical leader.
Huang's Surprise at Trump's "Anti-Politician" Approach
Speaking on The Joe Rogan Experience podcast, Huang shared his impressions from his interactions with Trump. He expressed surprise at the former president's listening skills, sharp memory, and direct communication style. Huang characterised Trump as an "anti-politician" who prefers to speak plainly about his views, a style Huang said he favours over typical political language that can obscure true intentions.
"Almost everything I have ever said to him, he has remembered," Huang told Rogan, highlighting Trump's strong recall from their previous conversations. He added that Trump often begins policy explanations by clearly outlining what he believes is best for the United States, approaching discussions with a clear, logical framework.
High-Stakes Meeting on AI Chip Exports Preceded Comments
Huang's comments, recorded on 3 December 2025, came on the very same day he met with Trump in Washington D.C. The high-level discussion, confirmed by White House and industry sources, centred on US export controls for advanced AI chips.
The meeting specifically focused on licensing rules and how American restrictions on selling high-performance semiconductors affect both national security and Nvidia's global business operations. Following their talks, Trump publicly referred to Huang as a "smart man".
Nvidia's Critical Position in Global Tech Competition
The context for this dialogue is immensely significant. Nvidia finds itself at the epicentre of global competition for advanced semiconductors. Tightening US limits on chip sales to China carry major implications for the company's future.
Huang has previously cautioned that overly restrictive policies could inadvertently slow America's own technological progress. The Trump administration is currently conducting a review of US export controls, including whether certain Nvidia chips should be licensed for sale abroad.
Huang's positive remarks about the communication channel with Trump suggest a potentially productive dialogue at a critical juncture for both Nvidia and broader US strategy on artificial intelligence. The outcome of this policy review will shape the landscape of the global tech race for years to come.
