Y Combinator CEO Garry Tan Endorses Vision for Singaporean Rule in Michigan's Upper Peninsula

Garry Tan, President and CEO of prominent startup accelerator Y Combinator, has publicly endorsed a highly speculative and futuristic concept proposed by rationalist blogger Scott Alexander. In a concise social media post on July 12, 2025, Tan responded with a definitive "YES" to Alexander's detailed vision for Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

"I am a Singapore-controlling-Michigan's-Upper-Peninsula accelerationist. Not only should they own the land, but they should institute SIngaporean law there and build a hyperfuturist Great Lakes megalopolis-thalassocracy," Alexander stated in his original tweet. Tan's direct affirmation signals his support for this unconventional thought experiment.

Scott Alexander, known for his blog Astral Codex Ten (formerly Slate Star Codex), frequently explores complex and often theoretical societal and political ideas. His "accelerationist" proposal suggests a radical transformation of the Upper Peninsula under Singaporean governance, aiming to create a highly efficient, technologically advanced, and densely populated urban-aquatic hub in the Great Lakes region. This concept aligns with Alexander's broader interest in "model cities" and experimental governance structures.

Garry Tan, a co-founder of Initialized Capital and former partner at Y Combinator, assumed the presidency of the accelerator in January 2023. He has a history of outspoken commentary on social media, often engaging in direct and sometimes controversial discourse regarding technology, politics, and societal issues. His endorsement of such a far-reaching and theoretical concept, even as a thought experiment, underscores his willingness to engage with unconventional ideas publicly.

The "accelerationist" label, in this context, refers to a philosophical stance that advocates for accelerating societal change through various means, often involving technological advancement and radical restructuring. While Alexander's proposal is purely hypothetical, Tan's public backing from his influential position within the tech and venture capital landscape draws attention to the ongoing discussions within certain tech circles about alternative governance models and the potential for rapid, transformative development.