Carly Fiorina: Former Hewlett-Packard CEO Announces Presidential Bid
Carly Fiorina has announced her bid for the 2016 presidential election. The former Hewlett-Packard CEO holds the distinction of being the first woman to head a Fortune 100 company. She believes her professional struggles, and triumphs, will help her “restore possibilities for every American regardless of their circumstances.”
The announcement, which was made via social media, was not a surprise. Fiorina became involved in politics during John McCain’s 2008 presidential campaign.
As reported by Washington Post, Carly Fiorina was hired as McCain’s adviser. However, her outspoken personality became a point of controversy.
During the campaign, Fiorina was asked whether John McCain or Sarah Palin were capable of running a major corporation. Instead of ignoring the question, the former Hewlett-Packard CEO admitted neither the presidential hopeful nor his running mate were capable of heading a Fortune 100 company.
As a result, Fiorina “was yanked off the television circuit.”
In 2010, the former CEO ran for the United States Senate in California. Although she won the Republican nomination, she faced stark criticism from the opposition. Fiorina ultimately lost the election to incumbent Senator Barbara Boxer.
I’m in and I’m excited to hear from you on @periscopeco at 4 pm EST this afternoon. http://t.co/yLxdsJF9Q7 https://t.co/REDpXCcUjq
— Carly Fiorina (@CarlyFiorina) May 4, 2015
Throughout her campaign, Carly Fiorina faced specific criticism for decisions she made as Hewlett-Packard’s CEO. As reported by Political Correction, the former CEO is accused of “firing at least 18,000 HP employees” and “outsourcing American jobs.”
Although she was ultimately forced to resign, Fiorina is hesitant to discuss the years she spent working at Hewlett-Packard.
She admits the business relationship ended badly, but she said she is simply “tired of talking about it.” Carly Fiorina has received criticism for being “too much of a celebrity.” However, she often emphasizes that she started out working as a secretary.
Frank and I are excited to begin this journey and we look forward to seeing you on the trail! #Carly2016 pic.twitter.com/e06aOXxmvk
— Carly Fiorina (@CarlyFiorina) May 4, 2015
As reported by Biography, Fiorina was hired by AT&T as a sales representative at the age of 25. However, ten years later she was named head of company’s Network Systems department. At the age of 40, she was appointed as head of AT&T’s North American sales department.
The New York Times reports that the former Hewlett-Packard CEO simply wants every American to have the same opportunity to succeed.
Carly Fiorina discusses why she is the best candidate for the 2016 presidential election.
“I think I’m the best person for the job because I understand how the economy actually works. I understand executive decision making which is making a tough call in a tough time with high stakes.”
Although she is clearly passionate about her beliefs, Carly Fiorina’s presidential bid is being described as a “long shot.”
[Image via Darren McCollester/Getty Images]
