Meta Platforms, Inc. has established a new super PAC, the American Technology Excellence Project, to financially support state-level politicians who advocate for the artificial intelligence industry. The initiative aims to shape emerging AI regulations across the United States and may involve tens of millions of dollars in political spending directed at the 2026 midterm elections.
Key Takeaways
- Meta has created a new super PAC named the American Technology Excellence Project.
- The group will fund state lawmakers who support the AI industry's policy goals.
- It will be managed by both Republican and Democratic consulting firms to ensure bipartisan reach.
- This is Meta's second AI-focused super PAC, following a similar initiative in California.
- The move comes as 38 states have already passed new AI-related laws this year.
Meta's Strategy for State-Level Influence
Meta is expanding its political operations from Washington D.C. to state capitals. The company's new super PAC, the American Technology Excellence Project, will focus on influencing legislation at the state level, where a significant amount of AI regulation is being developed.
The primary goal is to support candidates who will create a favorable regulatory environment for AI development. This initiative represents a significant financial commitment to shaping the legal landscape for technology companies in the years to come.
Bipartisan Leadership and Management
To ensure broad political influence, the super PAC will be managed by consulting firms from both major parties. Brian Baker, a Republican strategist, will lead the project. According to reports from The New York Times, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg hired Baker last year to improve the company's relationships with GOP officials.
Democratic consulting firm Hilltop Public Solutions will also co-manage the super PAC. This bipartisan structure is designed to endorse and support politicians regardless of their party affiliation, focusing instead on their stance on technology policy.
"We need state legislators who will champion our tech future, not cede it to global adversaries," Brian Baker said in a statement. "We'll fight to keep the US ahead of the curve."
Addressing Regulatory Challenges
The creation of the super PAC is a direct response to the increasing number of AI-related laws being passed in state legislatures. Company officials have expressed concern over what they describe as inconsistent and fragmented regulations that could hinder innovation.
Brian Rice, Meta's Vice President of Public Policy, highlighted the importance of state lawmakers in this process. He emphasized their role in maintaining America's position as a global leader in technology.
The Rise of State-Level AI Legislation
States are becoming the primary battleground for AI regulation. As federal action remains slow, individual states are creating their own rules. According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, 38 states have already enacted new AI laws in 2024. This rapid legislative activity has prompted major tech companies like Meta, Google, and Apple to increase their lobbying efforts at the state level to ensure regulations align with their business interests.
In a formal statement, Rice explained the company's motivation for the new political initiative.
"Amid a growing patchwork of inconsistent regulations that threaten homegrown innovation and investments in AI, state lawmakers are uniquely positioned to ensure that America remains a global technology leader," stated Brian Rice.
A Growing Political Footprint
The American Technology Excellence Project is the second super PAC Meta has launched to focus on artificial intelligence. The first was established in California to address state-specific AI initiatives. This expansion signals a broader strategy to engage more directly in the political process across the country.
By creating these political action committees, Meta can contribute unlimited funds to support or oppose candidates, as long as it does not coordinate directly with their campaigns. This allows the company to exert significant influence over elections, particularly in key state legislative races.
What is a Super PAC?
A super PAC, or Political Action Committee, is an organization that can raise and spend unlimited amounts of money from corporations, unions, and individuals to advocate for or against political candidates. Unlike traditional PACs, they are prohibited from making direct contributions to candidate campaigns or parties. Their primary function is to run independent advertisements and other political messaging.
The tech industry as a whole is scrambling to gain a foothold in the rapidly evolving AI landscape. As states continue to pass new laws governing data privacy, algorithmic transparency, and the use of AI in various sectors, companies are investing heavily in lobbying and political spending to protect their interests and promote innovation on their terms.