The Biggest Pro-AI Super Pac Network Didn't Really Impact the Midterms
wired ·
Despite entering the 2026 midterm elections with a $100 million war chest and backing from Silicon Valley’s most prominent billionaires, the pro-AI super PAC network Leading the Future failed to significantly influence election outcomes. Although the group secured dozens of victories for congressional candidates, its strategy relied heavily on funding safe incumbents rather than competitive races, leaving over $20 million unspent. In high-stakes primary contests, such as New York’s 12th district, aggressive spending against AI safety advocates like Alex Bores backfired by elevating their profiles and boosting rival campaigns. The network also suffered notable losses in risky general election races, including South Carolina’s Senate seat where Darline Graham lost despite significant financial support. Polling data indicated widespread voter distrust of Big Tech, with more than half of voters citing AI and data centers as major factors in their decisions. Consequently, the midterms are viewed by critics as a victory for AI safety advocates and a defeat for industry efforts to buy regulatory leniency. With Democrats vowing to subpoena tech executives and Republicans facing backlash, Silicon Valley now anticipates increased political scrutiny during Trump’s second term.
wired