Table of Contents
- A Tangled History
- The Controversial Remark
- Damage Control and Apology
- Newsom’s Response: Loyalty Over Politics
- What This Means for California
- Sources
A Tangled History
The bond between California Governor Gavin Newsom and tech titan Marc Benioff isn’t just political—it’s personal. Benioff, the CEO of Salesforce, is the godfather to one of Newsom’s children, a testament to a friendship that stretches back to the early 2000s when Newsom was mayor of San Francisco . Their alliance has weathered tech booms, housing crises, and now, a very public political misstep.
The Controversial Remark
Earlier this month, Benioff made headlines by suggesting that former President Donald Trump should deploy the National Guard to San Francisco to address public safety concerns ahead of Salesforce’s Dreamforce conference . The comment, made during a high-profile interview, ignited immediate backlash from local officials and residents who viewed it as both alarmist and politically tone-deaf.
Damage Control and Apology
Facing intense criticism, Benioff quickly walked back his statement. In a public apology, he clarified that his “earlier comment came from an abundance of caution around the [Dreamforce] event,” and emphasized he no longer supports the idea of federal troops in the city . He added, “I sincerely regret the concern it caused” .
Newsom’s Response: Loyalty Over Politics
Despite the controversy, Governor Newsom has chosen to stand by his longtime friend. In a recent statement, Newsom referred to Benioff as still being “family,” underscoring the depth of their relationship beyond the headlines . This stance is notable given Newsom’s consistent opposition to National Guard deployments in California, particularly when proposed by federal authorities .
What This Means for California
The episode highlights the complex interplay between California’s political leadership and its tech elite. While Benioff’s remarks exposed tensions around urban safety and federal overreach, Newsom’s forgiving response signals a strategic choice: maintaining alliances with influential figures who shape the state’s economic future. It also raises questions about how personal loyalties influence public policy in one of America’s most powerful states.
Key Takeaways
- Marc Benioff suggested Trump deploy the National Guard to SF, sparking backlash.
- Benioff quickly apologized, citing concern for Dreamforce event safety.
- Gavin Newsom publicly reaffirmed Benioff as “family,” prioritizing their long-standing bond.
- The incident reflects deeper tensions between tech leaders and urban governance.
