Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff Apologizes for National Guard Request
Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff faced backlash over his remarks regarding the need for National Guard troops in San Francisco. During the 2025 Dreamforce conference, he commented on public safety, leading to a swift response from local officials and employees.
Benioff’s Controversial Remarks
In a statement, Benioff initially expressed an opinion that the National Guard could help address crime in San Francisco. However, he later retracted his comments, stating, “I do not believe the National Guard is needed to address safety in San Francisco.” This retraction came after significant criticism from Salesforce employees and local leaders.
Immediate Backlash
- Salesforce employees labeled Benioff’s remarks “a troubling hypocrisy.”
- Local officials, including San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie, condemned the suggestion for military intervention.
- A group of over 180 Salesforce workers signed an open letter expressing their discontent with Benioff’s comments.
Ron Conway, a longtime friend of Benioff, resigned from the Salesforce Foundation board, stating that their values no longer aligned. Meanwhile, Bay Area progressives criticized Benioff for suggesting that troops should patrol urban streets—as it contravenes federal law governing military involvement in law enforcement.
Public Response and Company Position
Following the backlash, Benioff pledged Salesforce would invest $15 billion in San Francisco over the next five years to support community initiatives. The CEO’s involvement in political contributions also came under scrutiny, as he has historically supported candidates from both major parties, including significant donations to Democrats.
Public Sentiments on Safety
The ongoing debate over public safety in San Francisco has grown more contentious. Critics argue that crime rates have actually been declining, contrary to claims made by some local business leaders and media. Mayor Lurie highlighted increased police funding, hinting that the city is effectively managing safety challenges.
Benioff noted that his comments stemmed from “an abundance of caution” regarding the Dreamforce event. Salesforce is navigating heightened competition from AI startups, a factor influencing the company’s recent struggles in stock performance and strategic direction.
Conclusion
As Salesforce moves forward, the incident surrounding Benioff’s comments on the National Guard highlights the complex interplay between corporate responsibility, community relations, and personal beliefs. The tech sector’s influence on public policy continues to be a focal point in discussions on urban safety and philanthropic responsibility in San Francisco.
