Full Breakdown
AI Super PAC Targets Congressional Candidate Over Regulation Efforts
11/18/2025, 11:31:39 PM
Leading the Future PAC's Campaign Against Alex Bores
The Leading the Future PAC, a super political action committee backed by prominent figures in the artificial intelligence industry, has launched a campaign against New York State Assemblymember Alex Bores. Bores, a Democrat running for New York's 12th Congressional District, is being targeted for his co-sponsorship of the Responsible AI Safety and Education (RAISE) Act, which aims to implement safety measures for AI technologies. The PAC accuses Bores of promoting "ideological and politically motivated legislation" that could hinder the growth of the AI sector in the United States.
The RAISE Act, which passed both chambers of the New York state Legislature but awaits approval from Governor Kathy Hochul, mandates that major AI companies disclose safety protocols and report serious incidents related to their technologies. Bores has characterized the legislation as a "light-touch" regulation designed to establish basic guardrails for AI safety, emphasizing its necessity in preventing potential misuse, such as the creation of biological weapons.
Background on the PAC and Its Objectives
The Leading the Future PAC, which reportedly has over $100 million in funding, is supported by influential figures including venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz and Palantir co-founder Joe Lonsdale. The PAC's leaders argue that the RAISE Act represents a fragmented approach to regulation that could undermine American competitiveness in the global AI landscape. They advocate for a unified national regulatory framework that they claim would foster economic growth and protect users without stifling innovation.
Political strategists Zac Moffatt and Josh Vlasto, representing the PAC, stated, "Bills like the RAISE Act threaten American competitiveness, limit economic growth, leave users exposed to foreign influence and manipulation, and undermine our national security." This perspective reflects a broader concern within the AI industry regarding state-level regulations that could create barriers to technological advancement.
Bores' Response and Fundraising Efforts
In response to the PAC's attacks, Bores has expressed defiance, highlighting his qualifications in the tech field, including a master's degree in computer science and experience in the industry. He stated, "If they are scared of people who understand their business regulating their business, they are telling on themselves." Bores has also leveraged the PAC's campaign against him as a fundraising opportunity, urging supporters to contribute to his campaign to counteract the influence of "Trump mega-donors" in shaping tech policy.
Criticism of the PAC's Tactics
Critics of the Leading the Future PAC's approach question the legitimacy of its call for a national regulatory framework, suggesting it may serve as a pretext to oppose state-level actions that the federal government has yet to address. The PAC's focus on Bores, who has garnered significant public support for the RAISE Act, raises concerns about the influence of wealthy donors in political decision-making, particularly in an industry as impactful as AI.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The RAISE Act is a clear example of the patchwork, uninformed, and bureaucratic state laws that would slow American progress and open the door for China to win the global race for AI leadership,” — Zac Moffatt, Leading the Future PAC
- “If you don’t want Trump mega-donors writing all tech policy, contribute to help us pushback.” — Alex Bores, New York State Assemblymember
The ongoing conflict between the Leading the Future PAC and Alex Bores underscores the contentious landscape surrounding AI regulation as the midterm elections approach.
