The Coca-Cola Company seems to have changed its tune about former President Donald Trump. After condemning the January 6 attack on the Capitol, the company is now helping Trump celebrate his inauguration with a unique gift.
On Tuesday, Trump campaign spokeswoman Margo Martin posted a photo of Trump sitting with Coca-Cola’s CEO, James Quincey. In the picture, Trump is holding a custom-made Diet Coke bottle created just for him. The bottle features his name, the date of his inauguration, and a picture of the White House. According to Martin, this is the first-ever “Presidential Commemorative Inaugural Diet Coke.”
Trump’s love for Diet Coke is no secret. When he was in the White House, he famously had a special button on the Resolute Desk that he could press to have staff bring him a freshly chilled can of Diet Coke. Reports suggest this button will be brought back when he returns to the Oval Office.
But Coca-Cola’s support now is a big change from how the company reacted after the January 6 Capitol riot. Back then, Coca-Cola strongly criticized the violence, which was sparked by Trump’s false claims that the 2020 election was stolen. Coca-Cola called the attack “an offense to democracy” and spoke out about the importance of respecting the peaceful transfer of power.
In a statement at the time, Coca-Cola said, “For nearly 250 years, the United States has stood as a symbol of democracy, showing the world how different perspectives and ideas can make society stronger. We are shocked by the unlawful and violent events in Washington, D.C. We believe in America’s democratic institutions to ensure a peaceful transfer of power and bring the country together.”
Now, the company’s decision to present Trump with a commemorative gift shows a surprising shift. But Coca-Cola isn’t the only company supporting Trump’s inauguration. Several other major CEOs, including some who previously criticized Trump, have donated millions of dollars to his celebration.
The move by Coca-Cola and these CEOs highlights how quickly some businesses can change their stance, even after condemning events as serious as the January 6 attack. For now, it seems they’re focused on mending ties and looking ahead.
