A new New Yorker article has shed light on OpenAI CEO Sam Altman’s history, revealing concerns from many who don’t trust him. This isn’t surprising, given the risks associated with AI technology, which could reshape the world and have far-reaching consequences.
In 2015, when OpenAI was founded as a nonprofit entity to manage these risks, concern about the technology’s use and effects was core to its founding. However, OpenAI has had a complex history since then, with many doubting Altman’s leadership.
Former colleagues describe him as “slippery” and say he’s “unconstrained by truth.” This is not new; in 2023, the board fired Altman for being “not consistently candid in his communications,” but he was later reinstated. Many former colleagues have even founded companies of their own, often with a distaste for Altman.
The issues are not limited to personal relationships. CFO Sarah Friar reportedly told some colleagues that she didn’t believe the company would be ready to go public by 2026, citing concerns about readiness and communication. OpenAI has disputed this, claiming both Altman and Friar were involved in critical decisions.
The article raises questions about the need for faith and trust in those who run AI companies, particularly when they propose policies that could exacerbate the downsides of AI. The proposals include changing tax codes to redistribute wealth and taxing companies that lay off workers due to automation.
Source: https://www.businessinsider.com/openai-sam-altman-new-yorker-profile-character-information-cfo-policy-2026-4