I agree with this analysis. Let's presume that Mr. Kalanick feels the way that I think most of us do, which is different from how Mr. Trump feels. Staying on

I agree with this analysis. Let's presume that Mr. Kalanick feels the way that I think most of us do, which is different from how Mr. Trump feels. Staying on the council will give the appearance of endorsement. That's a negative for him (and Uber, probably). That could be counterbalanced by his ability to affect change. And if Mr. Trump had given him the impression that he could influence his behavior in any way, perhaps he would have accepted the negative in exchange for a chance at the positive. I simply doubt that Mr. Trump gave him any reason to think he would have any real influence. Therefore, quitting expeditiously is a rational move.