Marc Benioff, Salesforce CEO, issued an apology on October 17, 2025, for comments he made regarding the potential use of the National Guard to address homelessness in San Francisco. The apology followed widespread criticism from city officials adn advocacy groups who deemed his suggestions inappropriate and possibly harmful.
Benioff’s remarks, made during a Dreamforce conference panel discussion, sparked controversy as San Francisco grapples with a visible homelessness crisis and ongoing debates about effective solutions. The proposal to involve the National Guard raised concerns about militarizing responses to a social issue and potentially infringing on the rights of unhoused individuals. This incident underscores the complex challenges facing San Francisco and other major cities in addressing homelessness, and highlights the sensitivity surrounding potential interventions. The situation is likely to fuel further debate about the role of government, private sector involvement, and the appropriate strategies for providing support and shelter to those experiencing homelessness.
During the panel, Benioff reportedly suggested exploring whether the National Guard could be utilized to assist with providing services and shelter to the city’s homeless population. He later clarified his intention was to brainstorm all possible solutions, but acknowledged the comments were poorly received.
“I was trying to provoke a conversation about all options,and I realize now that suggesting the National Guard was the wrong thing to do,” Benioff stated in a post on X (formerly Twitter) on October 17,2025. “I apologize for the pain and frustration it caused.”
San Francisco Mayor London Breed publicly rebuked Benioff’s suggestion, stating that the city would not consider using the National Guard to address homelessness. Several advocacy organizations also condemned the idea, emphasizing the need for compassionate and supportive services rather than a law enforcement or military approach.
