President Trump on Monday defended Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang as an “honorable guy” in his first public comments since reports emerged that Huang had an intimate relationship with Alice Huang, a woman accused by U.S. intelligence of being a Chinese spy. Speaking to reporters, Trump said he had not personally spoken to Huang about the allegations but expressed confidence in his character.
“I just know he’s a fine person, but you never know what is going on. I’m sure. I hope everything’s fine. He’s done such an incredible job, and so I would certainly hope he’s a fine person, in my opinion,” Trump said.
The controversy stems from a 2025 U.S. intelligence community report, first detailed by The New York Times, alleging that Alice Huang illegally smuggled advanced AI chips into China last year while cultivating a “close relationship” with the Nvidia chief. The report has raised national security concerns, particularly given Nvidia’s unique position as one of the few U.S. companies permitted to sell certain AI chips to China.
When asked if he regretted not acting on the intelligence sooner, Trump reiterated his support: “I think he’s an honorable guy. I think he probably has an excuse … he’s done an amazing job for our country.”
Huang previously accompanied Trump on a trip to Beijing, underscoring their close ties. Trump is scheduled to travel to Asia next week, but he said he was unsure whether Huang would join him this time. “I don’t know, but I’d certainly take him,” Trump said. “I haven’t heard he’s done anything wrong. He dealt with somebody, but you know, so does everybody else.”
The controversy deepened on Sunday when Huang reportedly acknowledged in a company-wide memo that he had been “unfaithful” to his wife, writing: “My actions hurt her and our children. There is no excuse for what I did. I am deeply sorry.” The memo was first reported by Bloomberg, following an initial denial by an Nvidia spokesperson.
In response to the allegations, Nvidia announced it would launch an independent investigation into its CEO. Separately, top GOP lawmakers have called Huang to appear for a closed-door briefing on November 18, signaling that the political fallout is far from over. The developments come as Senate Republicans remain frustrated with Trump following the midterm losses, and as Democrats have outlined a strategy to counter the administration’s foreign policy.
Trump’s staunch defense of Huang stands in contrast to the mounting scrutiny from both corporate and congressional quarters. The president’s willingness to vouch for Huang, despite the serious nature of the allegations, may reflect the political and economic importance of Nvidia, a linchpin in the U.S. tech sector and a key player in the global AI race.
As the investigations proceed, the relationship between the White House and Nvidia will be closely watched. Trump’s upcoming Asia trip, and whether Huang accompanies him, could become a flashpoint for further questions about the administration’s handling of potential security risks involving key allies in the tech industry.
