Silicon Valley elites are mobilizing to invest heavily in the 2026 midterm elections, aiming to shape a more AI-friendly Congress. A super PAC named Leading the Future plans to spend at least $100 million to elect lawmakers who will enact a unified set of AI regulations that supersede state restrictions. This initiative is backed by prominent figures and firms, including venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz and Palantir co-founder Joe Lonsdale.
Matthew Stoller, a researcher at the American Economic Liberties Project, criticized this financial strategy, labeling it as “what oligarchy looks like.” Previous attempts by GOP leaders, such as Sen. Ted Cruz, to limit state regulations on AI faced bipartisan pushback. Additionally, former President Trump mandated the DOJ to challenge state regulations deemed overly restrictive, though such directives can be rescinded by future administrations.
Both Republican and Democratic factions are expressing skepticism toward AI. For instance, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis proposes a “Citizen Bill of Rights for AI” to ensure user privacy and restrict AI data centers, while Senator Bernie Sanders calls for a moratorium on new AI data center constructions.
Leading the Future has also begun running negative ads against Democratic candidate Alex Bores, leveraging his past ties to Palantir, which raises ethical concerns. Current and former Palantir employees have criticized these ads as misleading, indicating the complexities and vulnerabilities the AI industry faces as it seeks political influence.
