OpenAI CEO Sam Altman expressed his love for the United States while criticizing the Democratic Party's shift away from "techno-capitalism" in a July 4th message. He described himself as "politically homeless" due to the party's radical turn, which he believes has moved away from its traditional principles of innovation and entrepreneurship.
Altman emphasized the importance of science, technology, and capitalism in driving progress and making everyone richer. He advocates for "techno-capitalism," which encourages people to make money and distribute wealth widely, sharing the "compounding magic of capitalism". According to him, this approach is essential for societal growth and prosperity.
The OpenAI chief also highlighted the significance of education in maintaining America's edge globally. He believes that political candidates should focus on ensuring everyone attains the benefits that billionaires have, rather than seeking to eliminate the wealth class entirely. This view seems to reference New York City mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, a democratic socialist who has expressed concerns about billionaires and income inequality.
Mamdani's platform includes a $30 minimum wage, tax hikes on businesses and the rich, and other policies like creating city-owned grocery stores and imposing a rent freeze for stabilized tenants. Altman, on the other hand, has called for shifting the city's tax burden onto "richer and whiter neighborhoods".
Despite feeling "politically homeless," Altman expressed pride in being an American and hope for the country's future. "The American experiment has always been messy," he said. "I am hopeful for another great 250 years." He concluded his message by wishing everyone a happy holiday and reaffirming his belief in America's greatness.
