Some of the tech industry's most senior figures are reportedly using their wealth to influence US politics regarding artificial intelligence. This comes as Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg published a 6,500-word essay this week, arguing for a laissez-faire approach to AI development and suggesting that excessive regulation could hinder the United States.
Silicon Valley is reportedly channelling hundreds of millions of dollars into Super PACs, which are groups not affiliated with political parties or campaigns. This strategy aims to support the election of candidates who favour a deregulatory AI agenda, ahead of the looming US midterm elections.
Among those contributing are OpenAI co-founder and president Greg Brockman, and Palantir co-founder Jo Lonsdale, who have given significant sums to 'Leading the Future'. This organisation is dedicated to identifying and growing pro-AI candidates. Earlier this summer, 'Leading the Future' spent $6m on advertisements attacking New York state assemblyman Alex Bores, a proponent of AI regulation, who subsequently lost a tight primary race.
Countervailing forces are emerging, including the union-backed Super PAC, Guardrails Alliance, which is attempting to counter 'Leading the Future's influence. Additionally, a bipartisan opposition to datacentres is reportedly gaining electoral traction.