LinkedIn founder Reid Hoffman recently voiced strong criticism against several policies of the Trump administration. He specifically called tariffs "terrible" for Americans during a recent appearance on a Wired podcast.
Hoffman's Direct Criticism of Key Policies
Hoffman did not mince words during his podcast appearance. He listed multiple government actions that he considers harmful to the American people.
"The way that ICE is operating is terrible for people," Hoffman stated clearly. "Tariffs are terrible for people. Anti-vaccination is terrible for children's health."
Trump's Tariff Actions During Second Term
President Donald Trump has implemented significant tariff measures since beginning his second term. These actions have targeted multiple countries including China, India and Russia.
Just last week, Trump approved a massive 500% tariff on Russian oil imports. The administration also withdrew from the International Solar Alliance around the same time.
More recently, Trump announced a 25% tariff on countries that continue trading with Iran. These economic measures represent a continuation of the administration's protectionist trade policies.
ICE Enforcement Under Trump Administration
The Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency has taken center stage in implementing Trump's immigration agenda. Mass deportation remains a central promise of his 2024 election campaign.
ICE has conducted thousands of arrests since January of last year. The agency's aggressive enforcement actions have drawn criticism from various quarters including Hoffman.
Call to Action for Silicon Valley Leaders
During the same podcast conversation, Hoffman addressed what he sees as silence from technology industry leaders. He expressed disappointment with their reluctance to speak out against administration policies.
"I think there's a bunch of people in Silicon Valley who disagree with the administration," Hoffman observed. "But they're worried about challenging their companies or facing hostile retaliation."
Hoffman's Advice to Tech CEOs
The LinkedIn founder offered direct advice to technology executives. He urged them to overcome their fears and speak their minds publicly.
"What I'm hopeful for in 2026 is for more people speaking up," Hoffman stated. "Speaking truth to power is the point of freedom of speech. It's the point of American society."
He acknowledged that many in Silicon Valley have kept quiet out of fear. Some rationalize their silence by focusing on building their companies instead.
"Just speak up about the things that you think are true," Hoffman advised firmly. "Do that and do not let fear and intimidation quiet you. Don't let the weaponization of state artifacts silence your voice."
Hoffman Addresses Epstein Connection
The conversation also touched on Hoffman's connection to Jeffrey Epstein. The LinkedIn founder recently called for the release of Epstein-related files after his name appeared in connection with the financier.
"I had a small number of interactions with Epstein," Hoffman explained regarding their relationship. "This happened during fundraising for MIT, and I have apologized for that involvement."
He expressed regret once he understood the full context of Epstein's activities. "Once I realized what was involved, I thought 'this is terrible' and offered my sincere apology."
Hoffman claimed limited knowledge of Epstein's background initially. "I didn't even know who Epstein was when he was imprisoned and released as a registered sex offender," he stated. Hoffman characterized subsequent attention as "political attacking."
The technology entrepreneur's comments represent significant criticism from within the business community. His call for tech leaders to engage more actively in political discourse highlights growing tensions between Silicon Valley and Washington.
