As the gears of politics grind on, Greg Brockman finds himself at a crossroads. The president of OpenAI, a pivotal figure in tech, recently made waves by pouring millions into pro-Trump super PACs in 2025—an era when the former president is barred from running for office again. The move raises questions: Could Brockman’s motive be more than just financial support? Could it be an attempt to bolster political backing for AI amidst its dwindling popularity? Yet, when the discussion turns to escalating violence against immigrant communities, he remains conspicuously silent.
In a recent interview with Wired, Brockman positioned himself as an apolitical advocate solely driven by the desire to foster responsible AI development. “We are developing technology that will be the most impactful thing humanity has ever created,” he stated, emphasizing the need for collective benefit from AI.
However, his financial gestures speak louder than words. Last year, he and his wife donated a staggering $50 million—$25 million to the MAGA Inc. super PAC and another $25 million to Leading the Future, which claims to be nonpartisan while attracting a roster of notable backers, like Marc Andreessen and Joe Lonsdale. The irony is palpable.
Perception Shapes Reality
Brockman’s increasing political contributions arise from a troubling public sentiment toward AI. A recent Pew poll reveals that 53% of Americans believe AI will stifle creativity, while only 10% express excitement about its societal impact. Amidst such perception, his motives become questionable: Are these donations truly for the future of AI, or a strategic maneuver to insulate his technology from public backlash?
Silent on Violence
The most poignant moment in Brockman’s discussion with Wired arrived post-interview, as the nation grappled with the tragic killings of two individuals by federal agents in Minnesota. These events transpired under Trump’s regime—a regime that fueled dissent through intimidation tactics aimed at immigrant communities. When Wired sought Brockman’s comments on these incidents, he sidestepped the issue, claiming, “AI is a unifying technology, transcending our divides.”
As with many high-profile tech executives today, Brockman’s refusal to confront uncomfortable realities raises alarm bells. His donations to Trump and far-right entities mimic the actions of others like Mark Zuckerberg and Tim Cook, who align themselves with power for the sake of contracts. It’s a calculated dance, tapping into an authoritarian regime while ignoring the long-term ramifications of such alliances.
Is Philanthropy Just a Shield?
With Trump’s approval ratings dwindling—just 36% according to a poll from the Associated Press—the landscape offers a complex backdrop. Once the dust settles on this administration, what legacy will tech figures like Brockman carry? In a post-Trump society, can benefactors of an oppressive regime escape scrutiny and absolution?
The narrative is unmistakable: financial support can blur ethical lines. As the clock ticks forward, we must not forget those who funded this troubling chapter in history. Will silence speak louder than actions, or has society prepared itself for accountability?