Meta to spend tens of millions on pro-AI super PAC

Meta is gearing up to establish a political action committee (PAC) aimed at supporting candidates in California who advocate for a lenient approach to AI regulation, as reported by Politico. This move comes amidst a wave of financial commitments from major tech players, including a joint $100 million investment in a pro-AI PAC by Andreessen Horowitz and OpenAI's Greg Brockman. The new initiative, named Mobilizing Economic Transformation Across California, will see Meta invest tens of millions to influence political outcomes. Brian Rice, Meta’s Vice President of Public Policy and the head of this PAC, has expressed concerns that overly stringent regulations from Sacramento could hinder innovation, impede AI advancements, and jeopardize California’s status as a technology leader. Earlier this year, Meta's lobbying efforts were focused on opposing state senator Scott Wiener’s SB-53 bill, which proposed that AI companies disclose safety and security protocols and report incidents involving safety breaches. Additionally, the company was instrumental in defeating the Kids Online Safety Act, which was anticipated to pass. With previous donations made to various candidates across the political spectrum, this new PAC indicates Meta’s strategic intent to shape the political landscape ahead of the pivotal gubernatorial elections in 2026. The tech giant’s proactive stance highlights its commitment to ensuring favorable conditions for the AI sector in California.