Key Takeaways:

• Coca-Cola CEO James Quincey presented Donald Trump with a unique Presidential Commemorative Inaugural Diet Coke bottle.
• The gift includes a special label commemorating the upcoming presidential inauguration.
• Social media has reacted with skepticism, criticizing corporations for rekindling ties with Trump.

In a notable gesture, Coca-Cola's CEO James Quincey awarded Donald Trump the “first ever Presidential Commemorative Inaugural” Diet Coke bottle, further illustrating Trump's well-documented affection for the beverage. Trump, who previously had a Diet Coke button in the Oval Office, was gifted the commemorative bottle adorned with a label that reads: "The Inauguration of The President of the United States," as highlighted by his aide Margo Martin in a post on social media.

The commemorative bottle marks Coca-Cola's tradition of celebrating U.S. presidential inaugurations with special editions, a custom dating back to 2005, as noted by a company spokesperson. Despite its significance, the gesture has not gone unnoticed, sparking a wave of criticism on social media. Comments such as "Coca-Cola CEO made the Mar-a-Lago a** kissing pilgrimage..." and "No mainstream corporation would go near Donald Trump 4 years ago" underscore the contentious nature of corporate endorsements related to the former president, especially amidst a climate where many businesses had distanced themselves from him in the past.

Some users expressed their frustration over this renewed engagement, questioning the motivations of corporations for aligning with Trump at this moment. As Coca-Cola stands alongside other major businesses that have contributed to Trump's inaugural fund, including Google and Amazon, the implications of this relationship continue to unfold.

The tension surrounding this incident raises broader questions about corporate responsibility and public perception in an era marked by political division. Many are left wondering how such actions will resonate with consumers and influence company reputation moving forward.

For further details, visit Times of India and The Hill.