Tech titan’s departure reflects growing political rifts as Marc Benioff backs Trump and calls for military presence on San Francisco streets
A Longtime Alliance Fractures
Ron Conway, a legendary venture capitalist behind early investments in Google, Airbnb, and Meta, has stepped down from the Salesforce Foundation board following Marc Benioff’s controversial comments in support of President Trump and the use of the National Guard to address San Francisco’s challenges.
- Conway and Benioff shared a 25-year friendship, with both traditionally aligned with Democratic values.
- The abrupt resignation underscores the growing political divide among tech elites.
Benioff’s Call for “Show of Force” Sparks Fallout
In a New York Times interview, Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff said he “fully supported” Trump and proposed deploying the National Guard in San Francisco to address crime and homelessness.
- He described the city as in “deteriorating condition” and said it needed a “show of force.”
- Benioff also expressed admiration for Elon Musk’s government efficiency efforts, while downplaying concerns over immigration raids and Trump’s attacks on the press — despite owning Time Magazine.
These comments stood in sharp contrast to Benioff’s prior reputation as a progressive philanthropist, known for supporting LGBTQ rights, workforce equality, and climate action.
Conway’s Strong Rebuttal
Conway’s departure was not quiet. In an email to Benioff obtained by the New York Times, he wrote:
“It saddens me immensely to say that with your recent comments, and failure to understand their impact, I now barely recognize the person I have so long admired.”
- Conway has served on the Salesforce Foundation board for over a decade, helping guide its mission to support education and workforce development for underprivileged youth.
- In 2023, the foundation donated $36 million and ended the year with $400 million in assets.
Salesforce Confirms Resignation
A Salesforce spokesperson confirmed Conway’s resignation, stating:
“We have deep gratitude for Ron Conway and his incredible contributions to the Salesforce Foundation Board for over a decade.”
Neither Conway nor Benioff offered further public comment.
Broader Tech Industry Shifts
Benioff is not alone. A number of tech leaders and investors who once supported Democratic causes have recently shifted right, publicly backing Trump and tougher stances on urban issues like crime, immigration, and homelessness.
- The timing of the fallout — during Salesforce’s Dreamforce conference — adds another layer of tension, as San Francisco hosts one of the largest tech events in the country while facing scrutiny over its urban challenges.
