The artificial intelligence sector is making a major play for political influence. AI developers and their affiliated donors have pledged a combined $275 million for political races.
In the 2025 cycle alone, AI companies and groups spent at least $83 million on federal elections, with tens of millions more directed to state-level campaigns. Meta leads the charge, committing roughly $65 million at the state level. California, a key battleground for tech policy, saw $39 million in lobbying and contributions from AI and crypto-linked firms.
This surge is part of a broader pattern. Big Tech's total political spending across recent cycles now exceeds $1.1 billion. Approximately three-quarters of these contributions have favored Republican candidates.
A strategic alliance between the AI and crypto industries is emerging. Their joint lobbying efforts have focused on combating state-level AI legislation. The crypto industry demonstrated in 2024 that massive spending can reshape elections, using super PACs to unseat perceived critics and install friendly lawmakers.
Super PACs promoting "pro-innovation" and "pro-safety" messages are again attracting tens of millions for the 2026 cycle. Major players including OpenAI, Anthropic, Meta, Google, and Microsoft have all reported significant expenditures ahead of the midterm elections.