San Francisco, 28 January 2026 – Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, sent an internal message to employees sharply criticising the actions of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), saying the agency is “going too far” with its immigration enforcement operations following deadly incidents in Minneapolis that have sparked widespread backlash. His remarks mark one of the most prominent tech executive responses to a brewing national debate over federal immigration actions.
Altman’s comments came in the wake of federal agents shooting and killing protesters in Minneapolis, incidents that intensified scrutiny of ICE and broader immigration enforcement tactics under Operation Metro Surge, a high-profile campaign undertaken in the city and larger Minnesota area.
What Altman Said
In his internal message, Altman said that while there is a place for enforcing immigration laws and addressing violent crime, there is a “big difference between deporting violent criminals and what’s happening now.” He emphasised the need to “get the distinction right,” asserting that the actions of ICE agents have crossed that line.
Altman also framed his critique as aligned with American democratic values, stating that loving his country means speaking out against what he perceives as overreach in enforcement practices, even as he reiterated support for the United States overall.
Tech Industry Reaction
Altman was not alone in his criticism. Apple CEO Tim Cook also lamented the events in Minneapolis, describing them as “heartbreaking” and calling for de-escalation of tensions. Cook reportedly raised the matter in conversations with President Donald Trump, underscoring how corporate leaders are navigating sensitive public policy debates.
The remarks by Altman and Cook follow broader pressure from within the technology sector. More than 450 employees from companies including Google, Meta, Salesforce and OpenAI signed a letter urging executives to press the U.S. government to withdraw ICE operations from cities, cancel federal contracts with the agency, and speak out against perceived violence and overreach.
Context: Backlash After Minneapolis Killings
The criticism follows multiple confrontations between federal agents and civilians in Minneapolis, including fatal shootings that have drawn protests and political backlash. One incident that triggered national attention involved Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old U.S. citizen killed by federal agents during a protest, an event that has become a focal point in debates over immigration enforcement and policing tactics.
In response to the incidents, corporate leaders and local figures have called for de-escalation and restrained enforcement, while some policymakers and advocates have urged investigations and reevaluations of federal strategy.
Broader Implications
Altman’s public stance reflects growing tension between segments of the tech industry and federal policy, a shift from earlier periods when many technology firms were more reticent to engage in politically charged debates. As immigration enforcement continues to be a contentious national issue, corporate responses, especially from influential Silicon Valley figures, could shape broader conversations around public safety, civil liberties and federal power.
