Supporting an authoritarian leader for their efficiency is one thing, but continuing that support even when they undermine the very foundation of progress is another.

In January, prominent Silicon Valley leaders, including Mark Zuckerberg, Tim Cook, and Jeff Bezos, were seen together at Donald Trump's inauguration. This display of deference seemed designed to protect Big Tech's financial interests, regardless of the actions taken by the leader.

However, the results have been mixed. In a single week, the combined net worth of Bezos, Zuckerberg, and Elon Musk decreased significantly due to Trump's imposition of tariffs, or import taxes. Simultaneously, the administration has continued its antitrust lawsuits against major tech companies and is seemingly protecting a rival platform, in defiance of U.S. law.

While the financial impact may not be the primary concern for these moguls, who prioritize building enduring companies, Trump's actions seem counterproductive to that goal.

Even after a partial retreat by the White House, tariffs remain high, particularly those targeting China. This is detrimental to Big Tech, as the manufacturing of microchips and computer hardware relies heavily on international borders, especially the People's Republic.

Apple, for example, chartered flights to import iPhones to avoid tariffs. Even Meta, which relies on advertising, is vulnerable because many of its clients are small e-commerce businesses that import goods.

The unpredictability of Trump's policies creates uncertainty. The White House has shown a tendency to change its stance, making it difficult to build trust.

Furthermore, this policy instability and the administration's disregard for allies could push Europe to reduce its reliance on American tech. It could also disrupt agreements that allow tech companies to process European data, and the harsh immigration policies and cuts to science funding could trigger a brain drain.

Tech giants may attempt to secure exemptions to Trump's tariffs through lobbying. However, Trump himself has acknowledged that his decisions are based on instinct.

The tech leaders can continue to lobby and flatter, but this doesn't change the fact that Trump's supporters are dismantling the system of checks and balances. Authoritarian rule is always vulnerable to the flaws of the leader, and Trump's chaotic nature presents a significant risk.