Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff issued an apology on October 17, 2025, following backlash over comments he made suggesting federal intervention to improve public safety in San Francisco. During an interview with The New York Times, Benioff urged President Donald Trump to deploy the National Guard in response to safety concerns during the annual Dreamforce conference, which concluded the same week.
In a post on his social media account, Benioff reflected on the successful event, emphasizing that it was the “safest ever” with over 50,000 attendees and no major incidents reported. He stated, “Having listened closely to my fellow San Franciscans and our local officials, I do not believe the National Guard is needed to address safety in San Francisco.” He acknowledged that his initial comments stemmed from a desire to ensure safety during the conference and expressed regret for any concern his words may have caused.
Community Leaders Respond to Benioff’s Remarks
The CEO’s remarks drew criticism from local leaders, including Daniel Lurie, the Mayor of San Francisco. Lurie highlighted the success of recent initiatives that have led to a significant increase in police recruits and a reported 18% drop in violent crime in the city. He stated, “We are working relentlessly every day and that public safety is our number one priority.” Lurie emphasized that the city is actively tackling its public safety challenges without the need for federal intervention.
In a separate event addressing public safety, Brooke Jenkins, the District Attorney, reiterated that local authorities are equipped to manage crime without external assistance. “There is no question that when we need the addition of state or federal resources, we have no problem seeking the assistance that we need. But we have this issue under control,” Jenkins remarked.
Impact on Salesforce Leadership
Benioff’s comments resulted in a significant fallout within the Salesforce community. Venture capitalist Ron Conway announced his resignation from the board of directors at the Salesforce Foundation in response to the controversy. In a letter to Benioff, Conway expressed his dismay, stating, “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.”
Despite the pushback, Benioff maintained a focus on the successful execution of Dreamforce. He shared that the event featured more than 300,000 security screenings and included 200 additional police officers to ensure the safety of attendees. The collaboration with local law enforcement agencies, including the San Francisco Police Department and the California Highway Patrol, was highlighted as a key factor in the event’s success.
As Salesforce moves forward, the company will need to navigate the implications of Benioff’s comments while maintaining its commitment to community engagement and safety. The situation serves as a reminder of the impact that corporate leaders can have on public discourse and local governance.
