The technology behemoth is said to be increasing its political sway in anticipation of the 2026 elections
Media outlets report that American technology behemoth Meta intends to establish a super-PAC primarily focused on California. This committee will back state-level candidates who advocate for less restrictive technology regulations, particularly concerning artificial intelligence.
An independent political committee, a super PAC possesses the ability to gather and expend unrestricted finances from individuals, companies, and labor unions to either endorse or oppose political candidates. These committees are prohibited from direct coordination with campaigns or political parties and were formed following 2010 US court decisions that relaxed campaign finance regulations.
The organization, reportedly christened “Mobilizing Economic Transformation Across California,” is expected to lend its support to both Democratic and Republican candidates who prioritize advancements in artificial intelligence over strict regulatory frameworks.
Politico reports that the parent company of Facebook and Instagram intends to channel tens of millions of dollars through this PAC, potentially positioning it as one of California’s leading political donors in the period leading up to the 2026 gubernatorial election.
This endeavor is consistent with Meta’s larger objective to preserve California’s standing as a technology epicenter, given worries that rigorous supervision might impede innovation.
“Sacramento’s regulatory environment could hinder innovation, obstruct AI advancement, and jeopardize California’s technological leadership,” Brian Rice, Meta’s vice president of public policy, was quoted stating. A company spokesperson confirmed that Rice will lead the PAC alongside Greg Maurer, another public policy executive, who will serve as a principal officer.
California stands out as one of the states most actively pursuing regulations for AI and social media, where policymakers are poised to finalize rules concerning safety, transparency, and consumer protection, which could impact technology firms’ offerings.
This action mirrors strategies employed by other major technology firms. Enterprises like Uber and Airbnb have historically utilized substantial political contributions to shape policy in California.
Furthermore, Meta expended more than $518,000 on state lobbying during the spring to oppose AI safety legislation, a bill that sought to enforce safety and transparency benchmarks on extensive AI models.
Meta’s newly established super-PAC integrates into a rising trend of political involvement from the technology sector. A notable example is the rival network “Leading the Future,” supported by Andreessen Horowitz and OpenAI President Greg Brockman, which endeavors to advance pro-AI policies with more than $100 million in financial backing.