Marc Benioff, CEO of Salesforce, recently expressed his support for President Trump, advocating for the deployment of the National Guard in San Francisco to address rising crime rates. His remarks were made during a flight to the city for the annual Dreamforce conference.
Benioff’s Call for National Guard Deployment
In an interview with the New York Times, Benioff stated, “We don’t have enough cops, so if they [National Guard] can be cops, I’m all for it.” This comment comes amid heightened security measures, as Benioff reportedly hired hundreds of off-duty police officers for the event.
Legal Context and Controversy
The National Guard is typically restricted from engaging in domestic law enforcement when federalized. A federal ruling last month deemed Trump’s use of National Guard troops in Los Angeles as violating the Posse Comitatus Act. This ruling prevents troops from engaging in law enforcement within California.
Trump has previously deployed the National Guard in cities like Portland, Oregon, and Chicago, citing public safety amid immigration protests. However, local leaders have criticized these efforts, leading to legal disputes.
Reactions from Local Leaders
Benioff’s proposal quickly sparked backlash from San Francisco officials. District Attorney Brooke Jenkins stated she “can’t be silent any longer,” warning against illegal harassment of residents by any deployed troops. She emphasized her commitment to holding law enforcement accountable for unlawful actions.
- Brooke Jenkins: Criticized potential harassment by military personnel.
- Scott Wiener, State Senator: Rejected the idea of military presence, calling it an “illegal military occupation.”
- Mayor Daniel Lurie’s office: Highlighted ongoing efforts to improve public safety without directly addressing Benioff’s remarks.
San Francisco’s Safety Improvements
The city has reportedly seen a nearly 30% decrease in crime, marking the lowest levels in decades. Mayor Lurie aims to increase the police force to 2,000 officers, with recent staffing growth noted as a positive trend.
Spokesperson Charles Lutvak emphasized, “We are moving in the right direction and will continue to prioritize safety.”
Political Background of Benioff
While Benioff has considered himself an independent and contributed to several liberal causes, he has also supported Republicans in the past, reflecting a diverse political stance. His relationship with Governor Gavin Newsom, a long-time friend, remains notable amidst these discussions.
Recently, Benioff declared his support for Trump, asserting, “I think he’s doing a great job.” This statement signals a shift in alignment for the tech leader, stirring discussions about the political landscape within Silicon Valley.
