Palantir Executive Defends Immigration Surveillance Work

Palantir Faces Criticism Over ICE Contract

A co-founder of Y Combinator, a prominent startup accelerator, recently voiced strong disapproval of Palantir, a data analytics firm. This critique prompted a detailed response from a Palantir executive defending the company’s operations.

Details of the ICE Contract

The exchange followed the release of federal documents revealing a $30 million contract between U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Palantir. ICE intends to utilize this funding to develop the Immigration Lifecycle Operating System, referred to as ImmigrationOS.

This system is designed to assist ICE in identifying individuals for potential deportation and to provide real-time tracking of self-deportations.

Initial Criticism from Paul Graham

Paul Graham, a founder of Y Combinator, shared news regarding Palantir’s contract on X. He stated that the current technological landscape offers numerous opportunities for skilled programmers.

Graham implied that talented individuals should seek employment elsewhere rather than contributing to “the infrastructure of the police state.”

Palantir Executive Responds

Ted Mabrey, Palantir’s global head of commercial operations, responded to Graham’s post. He expressed anticipation for future applications from individuals motivated by Graham’s commentary.

While Mabrey refrained from discussing the specifics of the ICE project, he highlighted the company’s initial involvement with the Department of Homeland Security.

Origins of Palantir’s Work with Homeland Security

Palantir began collaborating with the Department of Homeland Security following the tragic murder of Agent Jaime Zapata by the Zetas cartel. This effort was initiated under the name Operation Fallen Hero.

Mabrey emphasized that witnessing the positive impact of their work – saving lives – and the consequences of its absence, profoundly shapes their perspective.

Comparison to Google’s Project Maven

Mabrey drew parallels between Graham’s criticism and the protests surrounding Google’s Project Maven in 2018. This project involved analyzing drone imagery for military applications, ultimately leading Google to discontinue its participation.

He noted Google’s subsequent re-evaluation and increased openness to defense-related work.

Promoting “The Technological Republic”

Mabrey encouraged prospective employees to read CEO Alexander Karp’s book, “The Technological Republic.” This work advocates for a renewed partnership between the software industry and the government.

Palantir has been actively recruiting on university campuses, utilizing slogans that suggest a critical juncture for Western societies.

The Importance of Belief and Resilience

“We hire believers,” Mabrey asserted. He clarified that this refers to a capacity for dedication to a purpose exceeding individual interests.

He explained that such belief is essential due to the challenging nature of their work and the inevitability of facing criticism from various political viewpoints.

Graham’s Call for a Constitutional Commitment

Graham subsequently challenged Mabrey to publicly commit Palantir to refrain from developing technologies that could facilitate government violations of the U.S. Constitution.

He acknowledged that such a commitment would lack legal enforceability but hoped it would empower employees to resist unlawful requests.

Mabrey’s Response and Existing Commitments

Mabrey likened Graham’s request to a rhetorical trap, but maintained that the company has consistently demonstrated its commitment to ethical practices.

He emphasized their dedication to the well-being and values of their 3500 employees, who are driven by a belief in making a positive impact through their work.