Palantir CEO Alex Karp has argued that critics of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement should, in fact, be calling for greater use of his company’s technology rather than protesting against it.

Speaking with CNBC’s Morgan Brennan after the release of Palantir’s fourth-quarter earnings, Karp said that those who oppose ICE should advocate for wider adoption of Palantir’s systems within government agencies. He insisted that the core design of the company’s software incorporates protections consistent with the Fourth Amendment, which limits unlawful searches and safeguards personal data.

His remarks come at a time when demonstrations against ICE have intensified in Minneapolis following the deadly shooting of two protesters. The incident has fueled broader debates over government surveillance, immigration enforcement, and the role of technology companies in these operations.

Last week, documents from the Department of Homeland Security revealed that Palantir is supplying artificial intelligence tools to help the agency analyze and sort through large volumes of public tips and intelligence reports. The company’s involvement with federal agencies has long been controversial, particularly among civil liberties groups.

Palantir has faced sustained criticism for its collaboration with ICE, especially during the Trump administration’s hardline immigration policies. Federal records from April indicated that the company held a $30 million contract with the agency to provide real-time tracking capabilities related to individuals who voluntarily leave the country.

Beyond immigration enforcement, Palantir’s software is widely used across the federal government, including by the Internal Revenue Service and the Department of Defense. Supporters say its data analytics platforms improve efficiency and security, while detractors warn about potential privacy risks.

In a letter to shareholders released on Monday, Karp wrote that Palantir’s technology has the potential not only to prevent terrorist attacks but also to protect citizens from unconstitutional government overreach. He emphasized that the company’s systems are designed to limit what authorities can access rather than expand surveillance unchecked.

He argued that building transparent and accountable data platforms is essential for protecting civil liberties, and that progressive activists should recognize the role such technology can play in preventing abuse of power.

Karp has previously drawn backlash for his outspoken political views, particularly his strong public support for Israel following the October 7 attacks by Hamas. Palantir’s work with the Israeli military has also sparked internal and external criticism.

In a March 2024 interview, he acknowledged that some employees had left the company due to his stance on Israel and predicted that more departures could follow.

He framed the issue as broader than a single conflict, saying it ultimately reflects a larger question about whether one believes in Western democratic values and institutions.