Perplexity CEO Aravind Srinivas offers NYT support for artificial intelligence amid controversial tech workers’ strike

Aravind Srinivas, CEO of artificial intelligence search company Perplexity, recently offered his services to the New York Times (NYT) during a strike by its tech workers, sparking a furious backlash online. The proposal, announced on social media, comes just two days before the US presidential election, a critical period for New York Times coverage.

The strike by the NYT Tech Guild, which represents software support and data analytics workers, began on November 4 after negotiations failed. Workers are demanding a 2.5 percent annual wage increase and a limit to two working days per week. Other demands include protection from layoffs and improved remote work conditions. The guild expressed disappointment on social media, accusing NYT management of not offering a fair contract and engaging in “unfair labor practices.” Kathy Zhang, a spokeswoman for the Guild, said the strike would demonstrate the strength of workers on the picket line.

NYT Publisher A.G. Sulzberger criticized the timing of the strike, calling it “troubling” because of the newspaper’s critical role during an election that affected “hundreds of millions of people.” He emphasized the importance of New York Times journalism during this period, suggesting that a strike could undermine this vital public service.

In response to a report from media editor Max Tanya regarding Sulzberger’s comments, Srinivas offered support for Perplexity, suggesting that his company could help the NYT with its election coverage. “Perplexity is on standby to help ensure your essential coverage is available to everyone during the election. Write to me anytime,” Srinivas wrote.

The proposal drew sharp criticism on social media, with many seeing it as an attempt to undermine the strike. Commentators have accused Srinivas of acting like a “scab” – a term for someone who wants to take the places of striking workers, which is seen as undermining labor rights. Criticism has focused on the idea that offering artificial intelligence services as a replacement ignores the collective bargaining efforts of NYT technical staff.

Srinivas later clarified that his proposal was not intended to “replace” NYT staff, but to provide additional support on what was expected to be a busy day. However, since the striking workers perform technical and support functions, the proposal remains controversial.

In his message, he wrote: “It would be bad for the country if the New York Times were not open on Election Day. Everyone should pitch in to help. infrastructure support on a busy day.”

The New York Times Technology Guild strike will continue throughout the election period, marking the first time in 60 years that the News Guild has taken such action during a presidential election.