Anxiety, resentment around AI spur violence against tech’s figureheads
Recent violent incidents targeting AI proponents, including OpenAI's Sam Altman and an Indianapolis city council member, reflect growing public anxiety and resentment toward artificial intelligence and its advocates. Experts warn that extreme rhetoric around AI's existential risks may be radicalizing individuals, while tech companies report increased demand for executive security. Although the attacks appear unconnected, they are seen as part of a broader digital ecosystem of anti-AI sentiment, prompting calls for de-escalation and non-violent discourse.
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Anxiety, resentment around AI spur violence against tech’s figureheadsSign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inboxBillionaire OpenAI CEO Sam Altman is among the more prominent AI executives who have become victims of violent acts.PHOTO: REUTERSPublished Apr 29, 2026, 02:46 PMUpdated Apr 29, 2026, 02:46 PMNEW YORK – Several proponents of artificial intelligence (AI) have become the victims of violent acts in recent days, reflecting the existential dread around the emerging technology – and the public’s growing resentment towards its advocates. Billionaire OpenAI CEO Sam Altman is among the most prominent, with someone throwing a Molotov cocktail at his home on April 10. A suspect, 20-year-old Daniel Moreno-Gama, has been arrested.
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