Groups tied to OpenAI and Anthropic are spending big on the midterms : NPR
Groups tied to OpenAI and Anthropic are spending big on the midterms : NPR
https://www.npr.org/2026/06/22/nx-s1-5856359/ai-anthropic-congress-spending-openai-midterms-election
Publish Date: 2026-06-22 05:00:00
Source Domain: www.npr.org
- AI-related groups spent a significant amount of money, over $43 million, on influencing midterm election campaigns in the U.S.
- This spending was driven by the industry’s desire to shape future regulations of artificial intelligence.
- Central to this political spending is a heated contest in New York City involving Alex Bores, where over $15 million was spent on pro and anti-Bores campaign messages.
- The conflict between companies like OpenAI and Anthropic mirrors their competition in technology development and their differing views on AI regulation.
- The AI companies’ strategies aim not just at winning immediate legislative battles but also at influencing broader political attitudes towards AI regulation.
- Despite the consensus in Washington on the need for some form of AI regulation, substantial progress remains blocked and lobbying efforts are expected to continue strongly.
- The outcome of these elections and lobbying efforts will play a critical role in determining the governance landscape for AI.
