VCs Break Silence on Capitol Riots: ‘Never Talk to Me Again’
A Historic Day of Chaos and Outrage
The world watched in shock as rioters stormed the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021, disrupting the certification of President-elect Joe Biden’s victory. The unprecedented attack—encouraged by outgoing President Donald Trump—marked the first time in American history that supporters of a losing presidential candidate forcibly interfered with the electoral process.
Silicon Valley Investors React with Fury
As events unfolded, prominent venture capitalists abandoned political niceties, voicing their outrage on social media:
- Ryan Sarver, former Twitter director, tweeted: “If you still support Trump after this, FUCK YOU and never talk to me again.”
- Matt Ocko, DCVC co-founder, condemned the response: “If Black folks were assaulting the Capitol, there’d be helicopter gunships.”
- M.G. Siegler, GV partner, mocked Senator Josh Hawley’s later objections: “Sit the fuck down.”
Twitter later removed Trump’s posts for violating its Civic Integrity Policy, but many viewed the action as insufficient.
The Intersection of Politics and Venture Capital
The events raised critical questions about how political alignment might affect future business relationships in Silicon Valley:
Investor Perspectives:
- Deena Shakir (Lux Capital) emphasized this wasn’t about partisanship: “What we witnessed is an affront to democracy… a gruesome reflection of our divided nation.”
- Hunter Walk (Homebrew) maintained his firm would still back entrepreneurs across the political spectrum, but added: “We don’t believe we need to compromise our values to be successful.”
The Unavoidable Politics of Business
Shakir noted how politics increasingly influences investment theses, particularly in healthcare during the politicized pandemic response. “These events inform our present and future,” she stated, “affecting markets and reflecting our values as human beings.”
Looking Ahead
As the nation grappled with the aftermath, the venture community faced a pivotal question: Would this moment deepen divisions or mark a turning point toward accountability? For many investors, the answer was clear—some lines couldn’t be uncrossed.
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