OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has become the first major business leader to publicly criticize U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, saying the agency’s actions in Minneapolis were “going too far.” His comments were shared in an internal message to OpenAI employees, according to a report by The New York Times DealBook.
Altman’s remarks followed two fatal shootings involving ICE agents in Minnesota this month. The incidents sparked protests and renewed debate over the agency’s tactics and use of force.
In his message, Altman said there is a clear difference between enforcing immigration laws and what he described as overreach. He wrote that pushing back against government excess is part of civic responsibility in the United States.
OpenAI employees responded with strong support, reacting with hundreds of positive emojis in the company’s internal Slack channel. The message quickly circulated beyond the company as news of Altman’s stance spread.
Altman also praised President Donald Trump, calling him a “strong leader.” He said he hoped the president’s recent actions would help unite the country and rebuild trust through transparent investigations.
Other business leaders have addressed the situation more cautiously. Incoming Target CEO Michael Fiddelke described the events as “incredibly painful” but did not directly name ICE. Several Minnesota-based companies have called for calm and de-escalation.
Some prominent tech figures have been more vocal. LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman shared posts critical of ICE, while AI researcher Yann LeCun made sharper comments on social media.
OpenAI has not issued a public statement on the matter. Altman’s message marks a rare moment where a top CEO directly named and criticized ICE, potentially opening the door for more corporate leaders to speak out.
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