Joe Gebbia Leaves Democrats Over Border Crisis
During a recent appearance on The Katie Miller Podcast, Joe Gebbia, co-founder of Airbnb, shared that he distanced himself from the Democratic Party primarily due to concerns about the border situation under President Biden.
According to analysis from government data highlighted by the New York Times in December 2024, the U.S. is experiencing historically high levels of net migration. Gebbia stated in various podcasts that he became increasingly aware of the ongoing border challenges in 2021 and felt compelled to educate himself about the issue.
Airbnb co-founder @jgebbia explains that Joe Biden’s border crisis was the catalyst for his break from the Democratic Party. pic.twitter.com/kdzn8mbk0w
– Katie Miller (@katiemiller) September 1, 2025
Reflecting on his journey, he recalled how mid-2021 marked a turning point for him when the extent of border activities started to catch his attention. He wanted to grasp what was truly unfolding.
Gebbia described reaching out to friends predominantly within the Democratic sphere, seeking insight into the issue. However, he mentioned feeling somewhat dissatisfied with the explanations he received.
Seeking further knowledge, he even contacted Jared Kushner, the son-in-law of former President Trump, among other experts. “And then, ‘Oh wow, this is a big deal. This isn’t right,’” Gebbia expressed. He emphasized the need for enforcing laws regarding immigration and border control.
As he continued to dig into these issues, Gebbia found himself questioning his support for a political party that seemed to be enabling criminal elements within the country. He noted, “That’s not something I can endorse.”
I have a confession:
I did something regrettable.
Something my younger self
would disapprove of.
Yes, I voted Republican last November.
I know, I know.
Some may be disappointed to hear this…
– Jögebbia (@jgebbia) January 19, 2025
Reports indicate that Border Patrol agents have had to release a significant number of illegal immigrants into the U.S. interior multiple times since July, as noted in an August press release from the Department of Homeland Security. This trend has persisted throughout Biden’s administration, with tens of thousands being released each month.
Following his involvement in these discussions, Gebbia took on a new position as America’s first Chief Design Officer in August, a role established by a presidential order aimed at enhancing American public spaces and experiences.
