In a surprising revelation, tech billionaire Peter Thiel, a prominent figure in the LGBTQ community, has been unveiled as an FBI informant, according to sources cited by Insider. Thiel, a gay man who has been a substantial supporter of former President Donald Trump, entered into a clandestine partnership with FBI agent Johnathan Buma in 2021. Buma, specializing in probing political corruption and foreign-influence campaigns, reportedly found an ally in Thiel, who shared valuable information.
A Focus on Foreign Contacts and Silicon Valley Penetration
Sources suggest that Thiel’s cooperation with the FBI primarily centered on foreign contacts and efforts by foreign governments to infiltrate Silicon Valley. The FBI, however, cautioned Thiel against reporting anything related to Trump or American politicians, as revealed by right-wing political activist Charles Johnson. Johnson, who introduced Thiel to Buma, believes that Thiel’s concerns primarily revolved around Google’s relationship with China’s government.
This surprising alliance between Thiel and the FBI marks a notable departure from his association with Trump and the broader MAGA movement. It underscores Thiel’s gradual distancing from Trump, a movement that has been vocal in its criticism of the FBI and federal law-enforcement agencies.
From Political Contributions to Shifting Priorities
Notably, Peter Thiel, the founder of PayPal and Palantir and an early investor in Facebook, had a significant political presence. He contributed $1.25 million to Trump’s 2016 campaign but chose not to donate in 2020. Thiel’s decision was influenced by a desire for a shift in the Republican party’s focus, advocating for a greater emphasis on economic issues rather than social matters like abortion rights and transgender rights.
Thiel’s philanthropic activities in the political arena have been substantial, with contributions exceeding $50 million since 2000. However, he recently declared his intention not to fund any candidates in the 2024 races, except for former employees.
Unanswered Questions Surrounding Thiel’s Current Role
While it remains uncertain whether Peter Thiel still serves as a “confidential human source” for the FBI, sources have conflicting views on this matter. Johnson claims that Thiel is no longer involved, while Buma has mentioned receiving instructions late last year to terminate all contact with sources. The revelation of Thiel’s covert role as an FBI informant raises intriguing questions about the dynamics of his association with the agency and its implications for his political affiliations.
As the story unfolds, it invites further scrutiny into the intersection of tech, politics, and national security, with Thiel’s unexpected role as a key player in this complex narrative.