An Israeli cybersecurity entrepreneur ignited fierce controversy during a December 29, 2025 television appearance when he advocated for government limitations on American constitutional rights.
Shlomo Kramer, whose estimated $2.2 billion fortune stems from founding multiple security firms including Check Point Software and Cato Networks, told CNBC viewers that authorities must act swiftly to constrain fundamental freedoms.
“I know it’s difficult to hear, but it’s time to limit the First Amendment in order to protect it, and quickly before it’s too late,” Kramer stated during the broadcast.
When pressed to explain, the Cato Networks chief executive proposed establishing governmental oversight of all social platforms. “We need to stack rank the authenticity of every person that expresses themselves online and take control over what they are saying, based on that ranking,” he elaborated.
Asked directly whether the government should implement such measures, Kramer confirmed without hesitation that Washington should “do that” and simultaneously “educate people against lies.”
The entrepreneur, whose background includes service in Israel’s elite Unit 8200 intelligence division, justified his position by arguing that artificial intelligence poses existential threats to democratic societies. He specifically contrasted American pluralism with Chinese authoritarianism, suggesting democracies face unfair disadvantages.
“If China has a single narrative that protects its inner stability and the U.S. allows for multiple narratives, it puts them in an unfair advantage that long-term is going to cost the stability of the nation,” Kramer argued.
His remarks provoked immediate condemnation across political divides. Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT) tersely responded “No,” while former Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL) declared “We aren’t going to do this.”
Journalist Glenn Greenwald sarcastically thanked Kramer for “stating so explicitly” what he characterized as broader Israeli pressure for Americans to accept constitutional restrictions.
Following intense backlash, Kramer issued a clarification claiming his intent was merely addressing “covert digital manipulation” rather than restricting individual expression. Critics noted this explanation contradicted his explicit calls for government ranking systems controlling speech.
Constitutional experts emphasize that American law contains no exceptions for content deemed false or misleading by authorities. The First Amendment prohibits exactly the type of viewpoint-based regulation Kramer proposed.
His company recently secured $359 million in funding at a $4.8 billion valuation, positioning itself to provide technological solutions for the very security challenges its CEO identifies.
Foreigners such as Kramer have no business giving advice about how the United States should conduct speech policies. Let’s hope the political class ignores this Israeli plutocrat’s suggestions.
