Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff ignited controversy after suggesting that President Trump deploy the National Guard to San Francisco to combat rising safety concerns, a move that sharply contradicted the city’s liberal values.
His remarks triggered an immediate wave of backlash from public figures and peers within the tech community, with many expressing disappointment over his stance.
In the wake of the criticism, Benioff publicly apologized, stating his comments stemmed from a desire for caution and asserting that he no longer believed the National Guard was necessary.
The fallout from his statements led to significant repercussions, including the resignation of prominent investor Ron Conway from the Salesforce Foundation, highlighting a rift in values among tech elites.
Comedians pulled out of performances at the annual Dreamforce conference due to the backlash, further emphasizing the impact of Benioff’s comments on corporate culture and public perception.
This incident underscores the growing tension in Silicon Valley regarding the political responsibilities of tech leaders and the potential consequences of straying from progressive norms.
16
