What AI Companies Want for Their Midterm Millions
AI companies are spending hundreds of millions on the 2026 US midterms, and they have a clear goal:
A single national AI framework that preempts state-by-state regulation, and defeating lawmakers who advocate for stricter rules.
Super PACs Influence
Two major super PACs are at the forefront of this effort:
- Leading the Future: Funded by prominent figures like Andreessen and Horowitz from a16z, and Greg Brockman from OpenAI, it’s already spent tens of millions across various races.
- Innovation Council Action: A newer group promising around $100 million, with donors including the Winklevoss twins and Elon Musk’s xAI orbit.
Timing and Motive
The timing coincides with a failed attempt by Washington to freeze state AI laws. The Senate recently stripped a preemption provision from a bill, leaving a gap that these organizations aim to fill, either through federal online-safety rules or direct political influence on state legislation.
In 2025 alone, states introduced over a thousand AI bills, demonstrating the urgency perceived by both industry and lawmakers.
Diversity of Opinion Within the Industry
It’s important to note that not all AI firms agree on regulation:
- Anthropic, for example, contributed $20 million but focused on educating the public about AI policy rather than political campaigning. They have argued governments should be able to block dangerous AI.
This diversity within the industry highlights the complexity of AI regulation and raises questions about the ultimate impact of these substantial campaign contributions on democracy.