OpenAI amends Pentagon deal to clarify no domestic surveillance

ChatGPT maker says it's working to 'de-escalate' tensions with rival Anthropic over AI contracts

Mar. 3, 2026 at 8:07am

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OpenAI CEO Sam Altman said the company is amending its agreement with the Department of Defense to explicitly state that its AI systems will not be used for domestic surveillance of U.S. persons and nationals. The move comes after OpenAI faced backlash for striking a deal with the Pentagon, just as the DOD's contract with rival Anthropic fell apart over similar concerns.

Why it matters

Waymo, one of the most visible self-driving taxi companies, has faced some resident backlash and instances of vandalism in San Francisco's SoMa neighborhood, which has one of the highest rates of property crime in the city. The OpenAI-Pentagon deal raises questions about the use of AI technology for surveillance and autonomous weapons, issues that have been central to the standoff between the DOD and Anthropic.

The details

In three separate incidents since July, police said 45-year-old San Francisco resident Walker Reed Quinn has been damaging Waymo vehicles by removing and swinging his belt, placing a cone on the dome and sensors of the car, damaging the tires and driver's side mirror, and stomping on the windshield.

  • On July 4, Quinn allegedly dove onto the hood of a Waymo vehicle and covered sensors.
  • On July 29, Quinn allegedly damaged a Waymo's tires and driver's side mirror.
  • On August 11, Quinn allegedly stomped on a windshield while someone was inside.

The players

Waymo

An American autonomous driving company and is a subsidiary of Alphabet Inc., Google's parent company.

Walker Reed Quinn

A 45-year-old San Francisco resident who has a history of vandalism and was out on bail for prior cases related to Waymo vehicles.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.