Part 8/12:
Historically, corporations and mainstream institutions distanced themselves from Trump during his 2016 campaign and early Presidency. Now, that resistance has evaporated. The piece documents a remarkable transformation—major corporations, once reticent or openly hostile, are now engaging directly with Trump, even presenting commemorative products and celebrating his leadership.
A notable anecdote features a photo of Trump with the CEO of Coca-Cola, who personally presented Trump with a commemorative Diet Coke, symbolizing a profound turnaround. This shift is interpreted as part of a larger “character arc”—from a pariah to a figure of respect and influence, with corporations seeking to associate with him openly.