# Altman Pushes Back on 'AI Layoff' Blame
_OpenAI CEO Sam Altman claims companies are unfairly blaming AI for layoffs, with data suggesting AI accounts for only 1% of projected 2025 job cuts._
**Published:** 2026-02-23
**Source:** https://www.startuphub.ai/ai-news/technology/2026/altman-pushes-back-on-ai-layoff-blame
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OpenAI CEO Sam Altman is challenging the narrative that artificial intelligence is a significant driver of current corporate layoffs. Speaking on the [Bloomberg Podcast](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5tFplB3kgfc), Altman stated that many companies are unfairly blaming AI for job cuts, a practice some critics term "AI washing layoffs."

Altman emphasized that the majority of recent job reductions are unrelated to AI adoption. This perspective is supported by a survey from Challenger, Gray & Christmas, which found that AI is projected to account for only about 1% of layoffs in 2025.

His comments suggest a re-evaluation of how companies communicate the reasons behind workforce reductions, particularly as the impact of AI on the labor market remains a subject of intense debate and speculation.

  
    
  
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Original analysis from [startuphub.ai](https://www.startuphub.ai), the #1 AI startup directory.