AI Industry Lobbies Ahead of U.S. Midterms

The artificial intelligence industry is no longer just battling it out in labs and markets—it is now entering the political arena in full force. With the U.S. midterm elections on the horizon, AI power players like OpenAI and Anthropic are ramping up their lobbying efforts to shape the regulatory landscape that could define their future.

Millions Flow Into Washington

According to new disclosures, OpenAI spent $620,000 on lobbying in the second quarter of this year. Anthropic went even further, investing $910,000 in lobbying activities during the same period. While these figures pale in comparison to the billions flowing through venture capital, they reflect a strategic shift: AI leaders want a direct voice in Washington as the government debates how to regulate emerging technologies.

Super PACs Enter the Picture

It is not just direct lobbying at play. The sector is also leaning into political infrastructure, with Super PACs like Leading Our Future emerging to amplify AI’s voice in the political process. These organizations are designed to fund campaigns, influence public opinion, and ensure that AI companies are not sidelined as regulations take shape.

Why This Matters

The stakes are high. Regulation could determine how AI is deployed in healthcare, finance, education, and even national security. For companies like OpenAI and Anthropic—valued at tens of billions of dollars—having favorable policies is not just about compliance, it is about survival and growth.

The lobbying push suggests that AI companies recognize the risk of leaving their fate entirely in the hands of policymakers who may not fully grasp the technology. By investing in lobbying, the industry hopes to bridge the knowledge gap and tilt the balance in its favor.

The Bigger Picture

This marks a pivotal moment: AI’s future may be shaped as much in Washington as in Silicon Valley. If Super PACs and lobbying groups succeed in their efforts, the upcoming U.S. midterms could become a turning point in how artificial intelligence is governed.