Shouldn't we give Altman points for being honest about one of Silicon Valley's core mentalities? In any case, quotes are chosen by the reporter. Sam may have followed up "The Silicon Valley President in every way except the ideology is flipped" with an hour-long dissertation about how SV's mentality is not at all applicable to the federal government, and how it comes to bite even the hottest SV stars that don't mature, etc., we don't know, and Altman doesn't know how he will be excerpted.
As for Altman agreeing to even be interviewed: it's clear that he's passionate about civic affairs and is willing to speak out despite possible risk to reputation.
I'm sure Altman said dozens of mitigating things that were not included in the story, just as I'm sure that Altman knows how reporters work. Did he think the things he had to say about the Trump administration were so interesting and important that the risk of giving what is effectively an endorsement was worth it?
As for Altman agreeing to even be interviewed: it's clear that he's passionate about civic affairs and is willing to speak out despite possible risk to reputation.