AI and crypto super PACs spend millions to influence midterms
Updated
Updated · POLITICO · May 3
AI and crypto super PACs spend millions to influence midterms
10 articles · Updated · POLITICO · May 3
Leading the Future has raised more than $75 million, while Fairshake has spent $28 million in primaries in North Carolina, Texas, Illinois and New York.
The money backs candidates in both parties and is paired with heavy lobbying, as AI firms and crypto companies seek looser rules and Senate passage of the CLARITY Act.
Polling suggests Americans remain uneasy about both industries and special-interest influence, raising the risk of voter backlash as outside spending grows in 2026 races.
With tech giants spending billions, can public unease over AI and crypto still influence future regulations?
As AI and crypto rewrite economic rules through lobbying, who is ensuring the public's interests are protected?
AI promises innovation but brings soaring energy bills and pollution. Is this the future our communities want?
$500M AI and Crypto PAC Spending Reshapes 2026 Midterms and Tech Regulation Battle
Overview
In the 2026 midterms, AI and cryptocurrency super PACs are spending nearly $500 million, reshaping the political landscape by becoming dominant forces in campaign finance. Major contributions from Silicon Valley and crypto firms fuel aggressive spending by groups like Leading The Future, Innovation Council Action, and The Fellowship PAC, targeting key races to promote a pro-innovation agenda focused on light federal regulation and global tech leadership. This clashes with a pro-safety camp advocating stricter AI safeguards. Public skepticism about rapid AI development and crypto risks fuels backlash, while concerns over transparency and democratic accountability grow. The election outcome will influence whether the U.S. prioritizes rapid innovation or stronger oversight amid global competition, especially with China.