San Francisco

Waymo is now offering paid robotaxi rides on freeways in San Francisco, Phoenix, and Los Angeles, marking a significant advancement in autonomous transportation. The service will initially be available where freeway routes offer time savings. This expansion follows extensive internal testing and collaboration with safety authorities. Waymo is also expanding its service area to include new cities and airports, including San Jose Mineta International Airport. Unlike Tesla, Waymo currently provides truly driverless commercial transport.

San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie faces daily pressure to improve the city’s safety and economy. Following President Trump’s reversal of a federal surge plan, Lurie emphasizes San Francisco’s progress, citing data on business development and crime reduction. He highlights the AI sector’s impact, with venture funding surpassing 2021 levels. Crime rates are down, and tourism is up. The city is focused on attracting investment and fostering a broad-based recovery by removing red tape. He aims to support both tech companies and small businesses.

President Trump reversed plans for a federal surge in San Francisco after conversations with tech leaders like Nvidia’s Huang and Salesforce’s Benioff, who expressed optimism about the city’s future. Trump cited Mayor Lurie’s progress on tackling crime. This reversal, a victory for San Francisco, followed initial support for federal intervention from some tech figures, later revised amid criticism. Recent data shows decreasing crime rates and a resurgence in economic activity, driven by AI innovation and venture capital investment. The interplay between politics, business, and technology shapes San Francisco’s revitalization.

Despite President Trump’s call for National Guard deployment, San Francisco shows strong recovery signs driven by AI investment. Crime is down, tourism is up, and real estate is revitalizing. The city is becoming an AI hub, attracting significant venture capital, exceeding previous investment peaks. While challenges like homelessness and retail vacancies persist, officials report increased safety and economic opportunity, emphasizing the city’s positive trajectory. Key tech figures initially supported Trump’s proposal, but later retracted their statements amid local opposition.

Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff apologized after suggesting the National Guard for San Francisco security, a proposal sparked by concerns raised by President Trump and amplified by a *New York Times* article. The initial comments drew criticism from local officials, Governor Newsom, and led to Ron Conway’s resignation from the Salesforce Foundation board, citing value misalignment. This ignited debate about federal intervention and San Francisco’s progressive values, intensified by comments from David Sacks and Elon Musk, highlighting Silicon Valley’s intersection with national politics. Benioff now affirms safety is the city’s responsibility.

Following Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff’s suggestion of deploying federal troops to San Francisco, venture capitalist Ron Conway resigned from the Salesforce Foundation board, citing misaligned values. Conway, an early investor in tech giants and a major Democratic party donor, conveyed his decision to Benioff amidst growing controversy over San Francisco’s public safety. Benioff’s comments, amplified by figures like Elon Musk, sparked debate and drew criticism, highlighting the complex relationship between Silicon Valley and the political landscape, and increased sensitivity around San Francisco’s challenges with crime.

Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff stirred controversy by suggesting openness to federal troops in San Francisco, echoing Elon Musk’s call for intervention due to urban issues. This sparked debate amid Dreamforce, with local officials like DA Brooke Jenkins criticizing the idea. Mayor Daniel Lurie countered that crime is down, emphasizing city-led solutions. Garry Tan from Y Combinator stated “We do not need the National Guard.” Benioff clarified his stance, praising Lurie’s efforts. The event highlights San Francisco’s challenges and the growing influence of tech leaders in political discourse.

Salesforce is investing $15 billion over five years to advance AI and support its San Francisco headquarters. The investment includes an AI incubator and the “Agentforce 360” platform for AI-powered digital assistants. CEO Marc Benioff emphasizes the commitment to innovation and job creation. This move occurs before Dreamforce, expected to generate $130 million for San Francisco. Salesforce also plans a $1 billion investment in Mexico. Analyst Dan Romanoff sees the AI investment as vital for maintaining a competitive edge in a talent-scarce market.