With millions of dollars sitting in AI super PAC accounts, the industry's influence in the midterms is on track to expand. Why it matters: AI groups have already become major players in congressional races, but the latest Federal Election Commission filings suggest that the biggest spending may lie ahead. - Candidates are not definitively winning or losing on the AI issue alone so far. But with millions of dollars still available, AI groups are positioned to push their priorities hard through November. By the numbers: Leading the Future — a pro AI-industry super PAC backed by tech execs and investors pushing rapid AI development and lighter regulation — closed out Q2 with $31.5 million after transferring $20 million to affiliated…
Progressive Democrats taking hardline positions against AI are getting louder. Why it matters: Five influential progressives are shaping a confrontational Democratic message on AI, distinguishing themselves from party centrists by openly challenging data centers and AI-linked political money. At the center is Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), who has led the progressive anti-AI movement with proposals for: - A moratorium on data centers. - Collaborating with China on AI safety. - Protecting workers from AI-fueled displacement. Sanders is also making AI a flashpoint in his long-held objection to money in politics, calling on Democrats not to take super PAC money, especially from AI-linked groups. - He recently introduced the Abolish Super…
David Sacks ' influence as President Trump's chief AI architect will continue from his perch outside the White House, according to officials — but some close to the administration say it's welcome distance as voters' fears about AI grow. Why it matters: It keeps a powerful Silicon Valley voice at the center of Trump's AI circle without the government ethics constraints that come with serving inside government. - The move lands as Republicans grow increasingly wary of an all-in attitude on AI development and begin to question the White House strategy that has often followed Sacks' lead. Driving the news: White House officials tell Axios that Sacks will continue to wield significant influence as co-chair of the President's Council of…
Data: Axios research; Table: Kavya Beheraj/Axios Millions of dollars are pouring into state and federal races specifically around AI, targeting and supporting lawmakers in both parties. Why it matters: Tech money in elections is nothing new. But AI is now a potent campaign issue, driving big spending from rival camps. The big picture: Pro-AI billionaires funding PACs argue that they're trying to keep the U.S. from losing out to China in the AI race. AI safety and transparency groups are calling the technology a threat to jobs, kids and the environment. We've made a guide to the biggest AI super PAC and nonprofit players that are wielding influence across key elections in the U.S. and spending to boost policies: 1. Leading the Future is a…