Full Breakdown
AI Regulation Sparks Political Battle in New York
11/22/2025, 1:22:24 AM
Overview of the Core Event
The emergence of an AI-focused super PAC, Leading the Future, has ignited a political conflict in New York, targeting Assembly member Alex Bores due to his advocacy for stricter AI regulations. This super PAC, backed by prominent Silicon Valley figures including Andreessen Horowitz, Greg Brockman, and Joe Lonsdale, plans to spend millions to undermine Bores' congressional campaign.
Legislative Context
In June 2023, Alex Bores and New York state senator Andrew Gounardes coauthored the RAISE Act, legislation designed to empower the New York attorney general to impose civil penalties of up to $30 million on AI developers like OpenAI and Google for failing to publish safety reports. This bill is part of a broader trend of state-level initiatives aimed at regulating AI technology, even as the Trump administration prepares an executive order to counter such state laws.
Key Figures Involved
- Alex Bores: A New York Assembly member and Democratic congressional candidate, Bores has a master's degree in computer science and previously worked as an engineer at Palantir. He has positioned himself as a knowledgeable advocate for AI regulation.
- Leading the Future: An AI-friendly super PAC funded by venture capitalists and tech entrepreneurs, including Andreessen Horowitz, Greg Brockman, and Joe Lonsdale. The PAC aims to oppose candidates who support legislation perceived as detrimental to AI innovation.
- Andrew Gounardes: New York state senator who coauthored the RAISE Act alongside Bores.
Official Statements & Responses
Bores expressed gratitude towards Leading the Future for bringing attention to AI regulation, stating, “I want to thank [the PAC] for their partnership in raising up the issue of how we regulate an incredibly powerful technology so that the future is one that benefits all of us.” Conversely, the PAC's leaders criticized Bores, claiming his legislative efforts would hinder the U.S.'s ability to lead in AI jobs and innovation.
Criticism & Opposition
Leading the Future's aggressive stance against Bores reflects a broader concern among some tech leaders that regulatory measures could stifle innovation in the AI sector. The PAC's leaders, Zac Moffatt and Josh Vlasto, articulated their opposition, stating that Bores' legislation is ideologically driven and detrimental to the industry.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I couldn't imagine a better partner this week.” — Alex Bores, New York Assembly member
- “Assemblyman Bores has advanced exactly the type of ideological and politically motivated legislation that would handcuff not only New York’s, but the entire country’s, ability to lead on AI jobs and innovation,” — Zac Moffatt and Josh Vlasto, Leaders of Leading the Future
- “The part that scares Trump's megadonors the most is that I actually understand AI,” he claims.” — Alex Bores
What's Next
The RAISE Act is awaiting the decision of Governor Kathy Hochul, who must sign or veto the legislation by the end of the year. The outcome will likely influence the ongoing political battle over AI regulation in New York and potentially set a precedent for similar efforts across the United States.
