In a surprising shift, the Trump administration purchased a 9.9% stake in Intel for $8.9 billion, despite recent public criticism of the company's CEO. The deal, described as a 'down payment on a sovereign wealth fund,' represents an unprecedented direct government investment in a major U.S. tech company, particularly in a strategic sector like semiconductors. Analysts express skepticism about the deal's objectives and efficacy, noting the government is not injecting new capital beyond what Intel was already slated to receive. The move signals a broader trend of government involvement in critical industries but raises questions about strategy and outcomes.