AI's Political Influence: Key Super PACs to Watch in 2026

As the 2026 midterm elections approach, the artificial intelligence sector is channeling vast resources into political super PACs.

Prominent technology leaders are backing several super PACs, each with distinct goals influencing the political landscape. Some aim to support candidates who favor AI and prefer minimal regulation, while others oppose these efforts. Here are the major players to observe this election season.

Leading the Charge: Leading the Future

Currently at the forefront is Leading the Future, a coalition seeking to support AI-friendly politicians. The group claims it has amassed $100 million in funds. Notable backers include influential figures such as Greg Brockman, president of OpenAI, alongside his spouse Anna, as well as Andreesen Horowitz and other tech leaders.

Their financial contributions remain undisclosed legally. However, their mission is clear: become the centerpiece for AI policy advocacy by backing candidates aligned with their vision and opposing those who aren't.

The group is already active in elections, with the Think Big PAC spending over $118,000 in opposition to a Democratic candidate in New York, and the American Mission PAC allocating over $243,000 in support of a Republican candidate in Texas.

The Counter Movement: Public First

Former Congressmen Chris Stewart and Brad Carson have established Public First, a network aimed at endorsing candidates who advocate for AI regulation. Their financial goal is to raise $50 million, which, despite being less than their counterparts, is bolstered by strong public support for AI oversight.

Carson has expressed confidence in their position, noting that widespread public sentiment backs regulation, contrasting their financial capacity with that of pro-AI groups.

Public First anticipates donations from AI sector employees and beyond. It includes two major PACs: one supporting Democrats and another backing Republicans, neither of which have begun their campaign expenditures.

Meta's Strategic PAC Involvement

Meta, the parent company of Facebook, is also venturing into politics through super PACs, focusing primarily on state elections.

One PAC, aiming at California's elections, underscores the state's pivotal role in tech innovation, advocating policies that nurture AI growth without stifling state leadership.

Another PAC formed by Meta, the American Technology Excellence Project, is designed to influence legislative races across various states, ensuring that fragmented regulations do not impede domestic AI advancements.

Meta's political engagement has so far been quiet financially, but they maintain a position to act swiftly in pivotal races.