AI industry-backed super PAC targets New York Democrat in opening shot of midterms

A newly formed bipartisan super PAC, backed by prominent figures in the artificial intelligence sector, has set its sights on a Democratic congressional candidate in New York. This initiative comes as response to legislative efforts aimed at imposing safety regulations on AI technologies. The target of this campaign is Alex Bores, a New York State Assembly member and candidate for the 12th Congressional District. Bores has been a vocal advocate for the RAISE Act, a bill requiring major AI companies to disclose safety protocols to prevent misuse of their technologies, including potential criminal applications like biological weapon creation. The legislation, which stands for 'Responsible AI Safety and Education,' also mandates that companies report serious incidents to the state attorney general, or face civil penalties. While the bill has successfully passed through both the state assembly and senate, it remains unsigned by Governor Kathy Hochul, a Democrat who promotes AI investments in New York. Bores and his fellow co-sponsor, Andrew Gounardes, argue that the RAISE Act is designed to foster innovation rather than hinder it. This stance contrasts sharply with a recently vetoed California bill aimed at similar safety measures, which was halted by Governor Gavin Newsom due to concerns over its potential negative impact on the industry. The super PAC, known as 'Leading the Future,' launched this summer with over $100 million in funding, contends that the RAISE Act could have dire consequences for American competitiveness in the global AI landscape. Political strategists Zac Moffatt and Josh Vlasto, leading the PAC, criticized the legislation as a bureaucratic overreach that could impede progress and cede ground to international rivals like China. In a direct response to the super PAC's campaign, Bores highlighted his qualifications, stating, "With a master's in computer science and a decade of experience in tech, if they fear regulation from those who understand the industry, it reveals their own insecurities." He also leveraged the situation to bolster his fundraising efforts, urging supporters to contribute to his campaign to prevent large donors from dominating tech policy. Backed by influential figures such as venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz and others from the tech world, Leading the Future claims a bipartisan approach. However, its connections with Democratic operatives have raised eyebrows, particularly among AI proponents aligned with the Trump administration, who have expressed frustration with the PAC's strategies. Looking ahead, Leading the Future plans to increase its presence in New York, California, Illinois, and Ohio, with aspirations to expand nationally by 2026. The upcoming midterm elections will play a critical role in shaping the balance of power in Congress, currently held by Republicans.