Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff Advocates for National Guard Deployment in San Francisco

Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff has suggested that President Trump deploy the National Guard to address crime in San Francisco. Speaking to The New York Times, Benioff stated, "We don't have enough cops, so if they [National Guard] can be cops, I'm all for it."

The National Guard is generally restricted from performing domestic law enforcement duties when federalized. A recent federal court ruling determined that the use of National Guard soldiers in Los Angeles violated the Posse Comitatus Act, which limits military involvement in civilian law enforcement.

President Trump has previously indicated that cities like San Francisco, Chicago, and Los Angeles could be targets for National Guard deployment, citing safety concerns. He remarked, "I told [Defense Secretary] Pete [Hegseth] we should use some of these dangerous cities as training for our military, our national guard."

Benioff's comments have been met with criticism from local officials. San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins stated, "I am responsible for holding criminals accountable, and that includes holding government and law enforcement officials too, when they cross the bounds of the law." State Senator Scott Wiener expressed, "We neither need nor want an illegal military occupation in San Francisco."

San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie's office highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance public safety, noting net gains in police officers and sheriff's deputies for the first time in a decade. Spokesperson Charles Lutvak stated, "Crime is down nearly 30% citywide and at its lowest point in decades."

Governor Gavin Newsom's office has not commented on Benioff's remarks. Newsom and Benioff have a longstanding relationship, with Newsom naming Benioff as godfather to one of his children. Benioff, who identifies as an independent, has supported various political causes across the spectrum, including donations to both Democratic and Republican campaigns.