San Franciscans lukewarm about Warren plan to break up Big Tech

Senator Elizabeth Warren caused a stir when she presented a plan to split up some of the world’s largest technology companies. But the proposal is getting a lukewarm response near the tech heartland of Silicon Valley.

Warren, who’s seeking the 2020 Democratic presidential nomination, called last week for the breakup of Alphabet Inc.’s Google, Amazon.com Inc. and Facebook Inc. because of alleged monopolistic practices. At a rally for fellow Democratic presidential candidate Andrew Yang in San Francisco Friday night, some voters said they thought Warren is going too far.

“In general, I don’t think it’s a good idea,’’ said Malachi Griffie, a consultant for tech companies and former startup founder, speaking after Yang’s rally. “I think it’s pushing the envelope to start a conversation about regulations. We need to divest tech companies of the power they have, but breaking them up may not be the solution.’’

More than 1,000 people showed up to support Yang, dubbed the ‘internet candidate’ by some. The former entrepreneur has developed a relatively niche following because of his platform that touts the merits of universal basic income. He supports the U.S. government giving citizens $1,000 each month, calling it a “Freedom Dividend.’’ Yang has called for more tech regulation, but has disagreed with Warren’s view that breaking up Big Tech will help smaller businesses.

Daniel Ayerzon, who runs a marketing and consulting business, expressed a similar opinion. “I appreciate Warren because it’s bold to stick your neck out there and go against big tech companies,’’ he said. “But that’s ultimately not going to fix our problems.’’

Ivan Franco, a Bay Area resident who works for a biotech company, said he thought Warren’s idea was “a good first step,’’ but might be harder to do than it seems.

‘In general, I don’t think it’s a good idea’