Palantir Co-Founder Demands Return of Public Hangings to Revive “Masculine Leadership” in U.S.

Joe Lonsdale, billionaire co-founder of Palantir, sparked controversy after publicly calling for the return of open-air executions for repeat violent offenders. In a post on X, he wrote that under his leadership, the U.S. would “quickly … hang men after three violent crimes” — and carry out those executions publicly — as a way to restore what he called “masculine leadership.” Lonsdale added that public hangings would serve as a deterrent and help protect “our most vulnerable.”

His remarks ignited pushback from observers across the political and intellectual spectrum. Journalist Gil Duran warned Lonsdale’s proposals signal a troubling radicalization among influential figures in tech and venture capital. Theoretical physicist Sean Carroll dismissed the statements as “immaturity masquerading as strength,” framing them as performative — not substantive — advocacy for justice.

In some follow-up public comments, Lonsdale attempted to soften the initial shock by clarifying that his call for public executions would apply only after a third violent crime — excluding non-violent offenses — and that he supports due process.

Public hangings, as Lonsdale proposes, have not been used in the United States since 1936, after widespread horror over their brutality led to their removal from public spectacle.

For now, Lonsdale’s remarks remain provocative rhetoric — not a policy proposal backed by any institution. But the backlash highlights growing concern over calls from some corners of the tech and political elite for more draconian criminal justice measures. What happens next will depend on whether those ideas remain symbolic provocations or evolve into real legislative efforts.

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