Groups aligned with AI leaders at OpenAI and Anthropic have spent approximately $55.7 million on advertising and voter outreach for the 2026 U.S. midterm elections. The spending aims to influence AI regulation as lawmakers begin drafting legislation for the rapidly advancing technology.
The main pro-industry network, Leading the Future, has spent more than $29 million. Its backers include OpenAI President Greg Brockman and venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz.
The competing network Public First supports stronger AI safeguards. Anthropic has committed $40 million to the network, and its affiliated PACs have spent nearly $25 million.
The ad campaigns have largely avoided direct mentions of AI and related topics such as data centers.