AI super PAC launches $10 million campaign pushing 'uniform' national policy

A political action committee (PAC) representing the artificial intelligence sector has kicked off a significant $10 million campaign aimed at encouraging Congress to establish a cohesive national AI policy that would supersede the existing variety of state regulations. The initiative, named "Leading the Future," which was initially funded with over $100 million earlier this summer, highlights the industry's strategy to utilize its financial clout in the upcoming midterm elections. Nathan Leamer, the executive director of the PAC's advocacy wing "Build American AI," emphasized the widespread public interest in congressional action and a standardized national framework for AI. "We are thrilled to provide a platform for citizens eager about the future of AI to connect with their congressional representatives and effect change," he stated. The campaign is set to promote its message through a combination of television, digital, and social media advertising, alongside a planned 10,000 phone calls to lawmakers' offices in just the coming week, as outlined in a campaign memo. Former President Donald Trump has already expressed his support for a unified approach, declaring on Truth Social that the nation "MUST have one Federal Standard instead of a patchwork of 50 State Regulatory Regimes." Coincidentally, Leamer shared a photo of himself at the White House, where he discussed the necessity for a national AI framework. This PAC's mobilization occurs amid ongoing efforts by the White House and congressional Republicans to limit states' capacity to enact their own AI regulations. Sources familiar with the discussions revealed plans to incorporate language into upcoming spending bills that Congress will consider soon. Additionally, a draft executive order recently emerged, aiming to override state-level laws by establishing an "AI Litigation Task Force" and potentially threatening to withhold federal funds. Trump, known for his pro-AI administration and reduced regulatory measures, is anticipated to sign an executive order concerning AI later today, although it remains uncertain whether this order aligns with the draft currently under discussion. The White House has not yet responded to requests for clarification. Among the supporters of Leading the Future are prominent figures from the AI industry, including venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz, Palantir co-founder Joe Lonsdale, AI search engine Perplexity, and SV Angel founder Ron Conway. The PAC has already identified its first target for the 2026 midterms: New York Assemblymember Alex Bores, who is competing in the Democratic primary for the Manhattan seat currently held by retiring Rep. Jerry Nadler. Bores, a co-sponsor of the RAISE Act, which establishes safety measures for major AI companies, noted that while he supports the idea of a federal AI standard, the current debate centers on whether to halt state progress until the federal government addresses these issues or to collaborate on finding solutions.