In recent weeks, the discussion of Haverford alumni in the news has been largely dominated by President-elect Donald Trump’s new commerce secretary, Howard Lutnick. However, Alex Karp ’83 may be just as powerful. Karp, worth an estimated seven billion dollars, serves as the CEO of Palantir Technologies, which has become the largest defense contractor “in the blink of an eye.”
After graduating with a philosophy degree from Haverford, Karp co-founded Palantir Technologies with Stanford Law School classmate Peter Thiel at Stanford Law School (a school he afterwards said he hated). Despite their collaboration, Karp has carved out a distinct identity within Silicon Valley as a self-described progressive in an industry often dominated by libertarian and conservative ideologies. A philosophy graduate in a world defined by business and economics, his unconventional persona has made him an enigmatic figure in both business and politics. Known for his brash demeanor, Karp reportedly employs 24/7 security detail, and is famously outspoken— once even saying that short sellers pull down American companies just so they can buy cocaine.
A billionaire “man of mystery,” Karp has long remained in the shadows of his co-founder and Republican mega-donor Thiel. Yet, there are key differences between the two. Notably, Karp supported Joe Biden and Kamala Harris in the 2020 and 2024 elections, respectively, despite his qualms about the direction of the Democratic party. On the personal side of things, the eccentric billionaire has a laundry list of unexpected characteristics, from his dyslexia to his habit of skiing for five hours a day. Altogether, his personal profile appears vastly different from a typical Silicon Valley executive.
Another notable aspect of Karp’s public persona has been his staunch pro-Israel stance. In addition to providing technology to the Ukrainian government, Palantir has funneled technology to the Israeli military. Despite his views on Israel causing employees from Palantir to depart the company, the Palantir CEO has continued to be outspoken, saying “If you have a position that does not cost you ever to lose an employee, it’s not a position.” In the past, Palantir has also come under fire for contracting with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Karp is arguably one of the most influential people few have even heard of. Despite his company’s controversies, Palantir is poised to play a significant role in the upcoming administration. CNBC’s Jim Cramer has suggested that Karp is someone whom Donald Trump might “have a lot of fun with,” reflecting Palantir’s deepening ties to government contracts, particularly with the U.S. military and intelligence agencies. The company’s software, which specializes in data analysis, has been instrumental in a wide range of operations, from battlefield logistics to immigration enforcement, often raising concerns over privacy and ethical implications. Palantir saw a massive 290% increase this year, including a 45% jump in November alone, largely attributed to Trump’s corporation-friendly trade policies.
Karp’s leadership style mirrors his unconventional path. He has publicly criticized the tech industry’s profit-driven ethos, calling out peers for their reluctance to engage with national defense and security projects. Under Karp’s direction, Palantir has embraced such contracts, arguing that their work supports the safety and sovereignty of democratic nations. Yet this focus has drawn scrutiny, with critics accusing Palantir of enabling government surveillance and overreach.
As Palantir continues to grow, so too does Karp’s influence. The company’s recent success securing a $178 million contract with the U.S. Army for its Titan program solidifies its role as a dominant force in defense technology. While Karp’s profile is less public than that of Thiel, his role as the face of Palantir is indisputable.
For Haverford, Karp represents a unique legacy of critical thinking and challenging conventions—albeit with a divisive impact. From Karp to Lutnick, Haverford alums are shaping the world, though not always in a way consistent with the school’s ethos. Whether regarded as a visionary or a lightning rod for controversy, Alex Karp is making his mark, and in a world increasingly shaped by data and AI, his influence is just getting started.
this was really informative, thanks. karp is such a weird and fasinating guy. haverford college -> phd in neoclassical social theory -> stint in asset management -> F500 CEO???