I Think They're Lying About AI Layoffs

A critical analysis of the wave of tech company layoffs in 2026 that are being attributed to AI efficiency gains. Examining case studies from Block, Snap, Cloudflare, Oracle, and Meta, the author argues that most companies are using AI as a convenient scapegoat for layoffs that were actually driven by pandemic-era overhiring, margin defense, and investor pressure. Key evidence includes: Block nearly tripling headcount during the pandemic before cutting 40% of staff; Snap laying off 1,000 people just two weeks after an activist investor explicitly demanded workforce reductions; and a survey showing 59% of hiring managers admitted companies use AI as a more investor-friendly justification. The author distinguishes three real patterns: AI as pure scapegoat, AI as overstated partial factor, and budget reallocation toward AI infrastructure rather than AI replacing jobs. Notable tech CEOs including Jensen Huang, Demis Hassabis, and Sam Altman are cited as calling out this 'AI washing,' though the author notes they have their own PR motivations for doing so.