OpenAI’s Ex-CTO Under Oath: Sam Altman Misled on AI Safety Protocols

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and former investor Elon Musk remain locked in a contentious court battle, with new revelations emerging this week. In a video deposition on Wednesday, former OpenAI Chief Technology Officer Mira Murati—now CEO of Thinking Machines Lab—made striking admissions under threat of perjury about Altman’s leadership.

Murati’s testimony, revealed in court filings, directly contradicts Altman’s claims regarding OpenAI’s internal safety protocols. According to reports, she told lawyers that Altman once falsely asserted that OpenAI’s legal team had approved a new AI model to bypass the company’s internal safety board, which reviews new models before release. When asked if she believed Altman’s statement was truthful, Murati responded with a definitive “no.”

This admission comes amid broader allegations about Altman’s conduct. In a May 6, 2026 exchange shared by journalist Mike Isaac, Murati was questioned about Altman’s honesty and leadership style:

Counsel: "By fall of 2023, did you perceive Altman was not candid with you? Truthful? Honest?"
Murati: (very long pause) "Not always."
Counsel: "Did he undermine you as CTO?"
Murati: "Yes."
Counsel: "Did he pit other execs against one another?"
Murati: "Yes."

Murati’s testimony also touched on the infamous “Blip”, the November 2023 episode where OpenAI’s board abruptly ousted Altman, citing concerns over his “inconsistent candor in communications.” The firing sparked an uproar among staff and investors, particularly Microsoft, which intervened to reinstate Altman just days later. The episode led to a wave of departures, including Murati’s exit from OpenAI.

Musk’s lawsuit alleges that OpenAI’s shift from a non-profit to a for-profit entity last year violated its founding principles. Musk, who also runs the AI company xAI, has framed the case as a defense of OpenAI’s original mission. The trial has become a spectacle, with insiders describing Altman’s leadership as erratic and divisive.

The revelations from Murati’s deposition add fresh scrutiny to Altman’s management style and OpenAI’s internal governance. As the court battle continues, the tech world watches closely for further disclosures.