Opposition to New York's RAISE Act from Trump-Backed Super PAC

The RAISE Act, recently passed by New York's State Assembly and Senate, aims to impose regulations on large AI companies, including Google, Meta, and OpenAI. The legislation mandates these companies to develop and adhere to safety protocols, particularly to prevent "critical harm," which is defined as causing the death or serious injury of 100 people or incurring damages of at least $1 billion. Violators could face penalties up to $30 million. Additionally, the act requires AI developers to disclose significant safety incidents within 72 hours, addressing concerns raised by recent cyberattacks linked to AI technologies.

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Assembly member Alex Bores, who has a background in technology and a master's degree in computer science, is the primary advocate for the RAISE Act. He argues that the legislation is essential for managing the risks associated with AI, particularly in preventing misuse that could lead to catastrophic outcomes, such as the creation of bio-weapons. Bores has positioned himself against the opposition, stating that the super PAC Leading the Future (LTF) is attempting to undermine his campaign by opposing regulations that he believes are necessary for public safety.

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LTF, backed by prominent figures in the tech industry, including OpenAI President Greg Brockman and Palantir co-founder Joe Lonsdale, has criticized the RAISE Act as "ideological and politically motivated legislation" that could hinder U.S. leadership in AI and open the door for China to gain a competitive edge. LTF's leaders, Zac Moffatt and Josh Vlasto, have pledged to spend millions to challenge Bores' congressional bid, framing the act as a bureaucratic obstacle to innovation.

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Critics of the RAISE Act, including LTF, argue that the legislation could create a fragmented regulatory environment that stifles innovation and hampers the ability of American companies to compete globally. They assert that the act represents a misguided approach to AI regulation, potentially leading to a patchwork of state laws that could slow progress in the field. Bores, however, contends that the act is a necessary measure to prevent the kind of negligence seen in industries like tobacco, where companies historically downplayed risks.

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In response to the opposition, Bores has called for public support, urging voters to contribute to his campaign to counteract the influence of "Trump mega-donors" in shaping tech policy. He emphasizes his qualifications and experience in the tech sector as a basis for his regulatory approach. Bores stated, "If they are scared of people who understand their business regulating their business, they are telling on themselves."

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• “But the same pathways that will allow it to potentially cure diseases [will] allow it to, say, build a bio weapon.” — Alex Bores, New York State Assembly member

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• “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, LTF leader

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• “Shockingly, they didn't have to disclose that. I think that should be law and be required for every major AI developer.” — Alex Bores, on the need for disclosure of safety incidents

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As the RAISE Act awaits the decision of Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul, who has until the start of the 2026 session to sign it into law, the political landscape surrounding AI regulation in New York is set to intensify. The outcome of Bores' congressional campaign will likely be influenced by the ongoing conflict between state-level regulatory efforts and the interests of powerful tech stakeholders.

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