AI, Elections, and the Hypocrisy of Tech Titans
A surprising twist is unfolding in the 2026 election cycle: the very tech industry poised to benefit from artificial intelligence is funding campaigns to counter a growing backlash against AI. This dynamic is playing out vividly in Recent York’s 12th congressional district, where candidate Alex Bores is facing attacks funded by a super PAC backed by Palantir co-founder Joe Lonsdale and other tech giants.
The Palantir Connection and the Attack on Bores
Alex Bores, a Democrat, is being targeted by an ad highlighting his past employment at Palantir, a company with significant contracts with US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The ad accuses Bores of benefiting from technology used by ICE, a point of contention for many on the left. The irony? The super PAC funding the ad, an affiliate of Leading The Future, is comprised of individuals and companies deeply invested in the AI industry – including Palantir itself.
A $100 Million Push for AI-Friendly Candidates
Leading The Future has pledged over $100 million to support candidates perceived as friendly to AI development. This includes substantial contributions to congressional leaders and even President Trump’s political network. The group argues that a fractured regulatory landscape threatens American competitiveness in the global AI race, pushing for a federal standard that preempts state laws. They’ve already raised over $50 million in the latter half of 2025, with significant donations from OpenAI president Greg Brockman and venture capital firm a16z.
The Backlash and the Rise of Counter-PACs
The influx of AI industry money isn’t going unchallenged. Public First, a new organization led by former Democratic and Republican representatives, is aiming to raise $50 million to support candidates who prioritize responsible tech policies and safeguards against the risks of AI. They’ve pointed to Bores as a potential ally, citing his sponsorship of the Responsible AI Safety and Education (RAISE) Act in New York state.
State-Level Regulations and Growing Concerns
The RAISE Act, set to grab effect in March, requires AI companies to establish safety protocols and report incidents related to data breaches or dangerous malfunctions. This reflects a broader trend of states seeking to regulate AI, prompting concerns from the tech industry about stifled innovation. Governor Kathy Hochul has as well voiced concerns about the potential for technology to undermine infrastructure and democracy.
Beyond New York: A National Trend
The battle over AI’s role in politics extends far beyond New York. Candidates in California, Texas, Illinois, and Ohio are also expected to be focal points in this debate. Concerns about AI’s impact on jobs, energy bills, and privacy are fueling a bipartisan movement to address the technology’s potential downsides.
Donors Face Scrutiny
Several Democrats, including Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi in Illinois and Senators John Hickenlooper and Jason Crow in Colorado, have faced pressure to return campaign contributions from Palantir-linked donors. Krishnamoorthi and Hickenlooper and Crow have responded by donating the funds to immigrant rights groups. An online tracker is highlighting top recipients of donations linked to the company, increasing public scrutiny.
The Core of the Debate: Innovation vs. Regulation
At the heart of this conflict lies a fundamental question: how to balance the potential benefits of AI with the need for responsible development and regulation. Industry leaders like Palantir’s Alex Karp frame the issue in stark terms, arguing that American leadership in AI is crucial to national security and economic competitiveness. Critics, however, warn of the potential for job displacement, increased costs, and erosion of privacy.
A Broad Coalition of Concerns
A diverse coalition, ranging from Florida Governor Ron DeSantis to independent Senator Bernie Sanders, is advocating for states’ rights to regulate AI. This reflects a growing recognition that the technology’s impact is far-reaching and requires careful consideration at all levels of government.
FAQ
Q: What is Leading The Future?
A: A super PAC funded by tech giants, including Palantir co-founder Joe Lonsdale, aiming to support candidates friendly to AI development.
Q: What is the RAISE Act?
A: Legislation passed in New York state requiring AI companies to implement safety protocols and report incidents.
Q: Why are Democrats returning donations from Palantir?
A: Due to public scrutiny and concerns about the company’s ties to ICE and its role in the AI industry.
Q: What are the main concerns about AI?
A: Job displacement, increased energy costs, privacy violations, and potential misuse of the technology.
Did you grasp? Palantir’s market capitalization has increased by over 1000% since 2022, largely due to the boom in artificial intelligence.
Pro Tip: Stay informed about the candidates in your district and their positions on AI regulation. Your vote can shape the future of this transformative technology.
Reader Question: What can individuals do to advocate for responsible AI development? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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