Anthropic-funded group backs candidate attacked by rival AI super PAC | TechCrunch
Summary
The article discusses the political dynamics surrounding Alex Bores, a New York congressional candidate, who is supported by a PAC funded by Anthropic amidst attacks from a rival pro-AI super PAC.
Why It Matters
This situation highlights the growing influence of AI funding in politics, particularly as it relates to legislation like the RAISE Act, which aims to enforce safety standards in AI development. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for stakeholders in both the tech and political arenas.
Key Takeaways
- Alex Bores faces opposition from a rival pro-AI PAC due to his support for the RAISE Act.
- Public First Action, backed by Anthropic, is financially supporting Bores with a significant donation.
- The conflict illustrates the intersection of AI industry interests and political campaigns.
In Brief Posted: 12:52 PM PST · February 20, 2026 Image Credits:Getty Images Rebecca Bellan Anthropic-funded group backs candidate attacked by rival AI super PAC Late last year, New York Assembly member Alex Bores became the target of a campaign by a pro-AI super PAC to thwart his congressional bid. The group, Leading the Future, is armed with more than $100 million from backers including Andreessen Horowitz, OpenAI President Greg Brockman, AI search startup Perplexity, and Palantir co-founder Joe Lonsdale. Bores’ response to was simple: bring it on. Now, he’s got the muscle to back that challenge up. Public First Action, a PAC backed by a $20 million donation from Anthropic, is spending $450,000 to boost Bores in the race for New York’s 12th congressional district, reports Bloomberg. Like its rival, the committee is pro-AI, but it’s pitching a different vision, one centered on transparency, safety standards, and public oversight. Meanwhile, the industry-backed PAC, Leading the Future, has already poured $1.1 million into ads attacking Bores, largely because he sponsored New York’s RAISE Act, which requires major AI developers to disclose safety protocols and report serious misuse of their systems. Topics AI, alex bores, Government & Policy, leading the future, public first action, raise act October 13-15 San Francisco, CA Save up to $680 on your pass before February 27.Meet investors. Discover your next portfolio company. Hear from 250+ tech leaders, dive into 200+ sessio...
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