‘I Don’t Think Businesses Should Take a Political Stance:’ Whole Foods CEO John Mackey

Contact Your Elected Officials
The Epoch Times

It’s a mistake for corporations to take stances on political issues in the current delicate political climate, Whole Foods CEO John Mackey says.

“I don’t think businesses should take a political stance. They should be good citizens in their communities in terms of trying to help solve social problems where they have competence to do so or where they can make philanthropic contributions that will help the communities they’re part of, but taking political positions, is, I believe, a mistake,” Mackey said in an interview with EpochTV’s “American Thought Leaders” program.

“I’ve not agreed with what I’ve seen happen in the last few years, with more and more corporations taking certain advocacy position on political issues, because first of all, that’s going to be the leadership’s opinion that’s running those companies, that may not be the opinion of the of the investors, it may not be the opinions of the employees that work there, or the customers, or anyone else. It’s just the opinions of the leaders. And they’re forcing those opinions on their larger stakeholder group. And they risk alienating their customers who don’t agree with it—customers may stop doing business with them because they’re mad at them. They may find alternatives, they may just become disgusted and lose their respect for that organization,” he continued.

“And the reality is, a country like the United States is very politically polarized right now. So taking sides is not in the best interest of your stakeholders, it’s not in the best interest of your shareholders. It’s not in the best interest of your customers.”

Numerous large companies in recent years have opined on political issues, including coming out against an election reform law that Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp signed this year. That led to a high-profile clash between Republicans in the state and companies that spoke out against the bill, including Delta Airlines and Coca-Cola.

A number of companies also expressed support last year for Black Lives Matter, a contentious movement that alleges racism is pervasive throughout American society and agitates for radical changes to longstanding institutions and ways of life.

By Zachary Stieber and Jan Jekielek

Read Full Article on TheEpochTimes.com

Watch Full Video on EpochTV

The Epoch Times
The Epoch Timeshttps://www.theepochtimes.com/
Tired of biased news? The Epoch Times is truthful, factual news that other media outlets don't report. No spin. No agenda. Just honest journalism like it used to be.

The Sacred Honor of the 56

Today we're celebrating the sacred honor of the 56 men who signed the Declaration of Independence.

Alligator Alcatraz: A Bold Step Toward Secure Borders

Alligator Alcatraz funded through FEMA, represents a decisive move by the Trump admin to address illegal immigration with efficiency and resolve.

Is America Broke?

Silicon Valley investor and economic commentator Balaji Srinivasan made...

Hungary: Pride™ Cometh Before the Color Revolution

The EU engaged in a diplomatic siege of the Eastern European nation-state of Hungary pressuring it into embrace global trannyism or face wrath of Brussels.

Understanding the Trump/Musk Feud

The passion Trump and Musk exhibit over the OBBB is not contrived or for show. Each is addressing the problem from completely different approaches.

Federal Reserve Rates Are Too High, Says Former World Bank Chief

Rates should be between 0.25 and 1.75 percent rather...

Noem Waives Environmental Restrictions to Fast-Track Water Barriers in Rio Grande

DHS Sec Kristi Noem waived federal environmental laws to fast-track construction of 17 miles of waterborne barriers in the Rio Grande in South Texas.

Federal Officials Warn of ‘Lone Wolf’ Terror Threats on July 4, NY Governor Says

NY Gov. Kathy Hochul confirmed that federal officials informed her about a possible terrorist threat ahead of the July 4 Independence Day holiday.

Record 1 in 5 Buyers of New Cars Committing to $1,000-Plus Monthly Payments: Edmunds

The share of new car buyers committing to make monthly payments of $1,000 or more hit an “all-time high” in the second quarter of 2025.

US Keeps Pressure on Chinese Goods Amid Vietnam Trade Deal

Transshipping—rerouting goods through a third country to disguise the origin of the products—is a focal point of trade negotiations with Asian markets.

White House Report Reveals Top Earners, Staffers Working for No Salary

The Trump admin released its yearly report that shows the salaries for White House staffers, also revealing officials who aren’t accepting salaries at all.

Transportation Secretary Urges Governors to Remove Political Messages From Crosswalks, Intersections

Duffy sent letters to governors, mayor of D.C., and gov of Puerto Rico urging them to remove political messaging from intersections and crosswalks.

Bessent: US, India Near Agreement to Lower Tariffs

The United States and India are “very close” to a trade agreement, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said on Tuesday.
spot_img

Related Articles