OpenAI faces backlash over Pentagon deal; QuitGPT movement arises

An online campaign calling on users to cancel their ChatGPT subscriptions has gained momentum following OpenAI's agreement to deploy its technology on the US Department of War's classified network.

The movement, called QuitGPT, currently claims on its website that more than 1.5 million users have taken action as part of the boycott. The site states: "ChatGPT takes Trump's killer robot deal. It's time to quit."

Backlash sparked by Pentagon partnership

The backlash began after OpenAI announced last week that it had reached an agreement with the Pentagon to deploy its models in classified networks. In a post on X on February 28, CEO Sam Altman said that the department "displayed a deep respect for safety" and that the company had worked to ensure its principles were reflected in the agreement.

However, critics argue the deal allows the government to use OpenAI's technology for any lawful purpose, potentially enabling mass surveillance and autonomous weapons. The concern intensified after rival AI firm Anthropic refused similar terms, saying it would challenge any government action in court rather than remove safeguards on mass domestic surveillance and fully autonomous weapons.

In a subsequent update on Monday, Altman said OpenAI is working with the Department of War to add clarifications to the agreement. He stated that the Pentagon has affirmed OpenAI services will not be used by intelligence agencies such as the NSA under the current deal, and that any services to those agencies would require a follow-on contract modification.

What is the boycott about?

The QuitGPT boycott organisers describe themselves as "democracy activists" concerned about AI companies contributing to "authoritarianism in the US." The website accuses OpenAI leadership of "cozying up to Trump," noting that president Greg Brockman and his wife donated $25 million to a Trump-aligned super PAC in 2025, while Altman gave $1 million to the inauguration fund.

Organisers argue that while ChatGPT remains the world's largest chatbot, its market position is vulnerable. They point to OpenAI losing three times more money than it earns and steadily losing market share to competitors. The movement aims to capitalise on this fragility, noting that ChatGPT's user base skews young and progressive, with many unaware of alternative options.

"If we make an example of ChatGPT, we can send a clear signal to ICE enablers that their actions will not go unpunished. Let's make CEOs think twice before they get in bed with Trump," the website states.

The movement urges users to switch to alternatives, including Google's Gemini or Anthropic's Claude. While it remains unclear how many users have actually cancelled subscriptions, the campaign has gained significant attention on social media platforms, including Reddit and X.