Overview
- During a Jan. 9 meeting with top oil executives, President Trump read aloud Marco Rubio’s handwritten note that said, “Go back to Chevron. They want to discuss something.”
- Trump’s reading prompted confusion in the room, with Chevron’s Mark Nelson asking if there was a question before Energy Secretary Chris Wright redirected the discussion to an operational update.
- Rubio appeared uncomfortable as Trump patted him on the back, and Vice President J.D. Vance reacted with visible amusement during the exchange.
- The meeting centered on the administration’s push for major private investment in Venezuela’s energy sector, with Trump touting potential returns and reports referencing a proposed $100 billion effort.
- Coverage noted Chevron’s unique position as the only major U.S. oil company currently operating in Venezuela via a PDVSA joint venture, as the moment went viral and drew online mockery and questions about the president’s composure.