“Our country’s strength stems from its diversity and the contributions made by men and women of different faiths, races, sexual orientations and political beliefs,” Frazier said in a statement that did not mention Trump by name.
“America’s leaders must honor our fundamental values by clearly rejecting expressions of hatred, bigotry and group supremacy, which run counter to the American ideal that all people are created equal,” he continued.
“As CEO of Merck, and as a matter of personal conscience, I feel a responsibility to take a stand against intolerance and extremism.”
Other White House officials have also since defended the president’s comments. National security adviser H.R. McMaster said Sunday he thinks Trump has been “very clear” in his response, adding that the country can’t “tolerate this kind of bigotry.”
