AI backlash is coming for elections
AI backlash stalls $64B in data centers as super PACs spend millions to sway policy.
A new policy report by Lauren Feiner for The Verge reveals that AI is becoming a significant, yet complex, political flashpoint ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. While broad voter concern is high—with over 60% of both Republicans and Democrats supporting government regulation for safety and economic stability—AI has not yet broken through as a top-tier campaign issue, lagging behind the economy and immigration. However, local opposition is already tangible, with community resistance stalling an estimated $64 billion in data center projects across the U.S., according to Data Center Watch.
The political battle is intensifying on multiple fronts. Violent incidents, including attacks on OpenAI CEO Sam Altman's home, highlight simmering public frustration. Simultaneously, a well-funded lobbying war is underway to influence future AI policy. On one side is the super PAC Leading the Future, backed by $140 million from OpenAI president Greg Brockman and investors Marc Andreessen and Ben Horowitz. Opposing them is Public First Action, with $50 million, including $20 million from Anthropic, aiming to support candidates who favor public safeguards. This clash sets the stage for AI to become a defining policy issue as the election approaches.
- Bipartisan voter concern is high, with over 60% of both Republicans and Democrats supporting AI regulation for safety and stability.
- Local opposition has become a major barrier, blocking or delaying $64 billion in data center development nationwide.
- A high-stakes lobbying war is raging, with the pro-innovation PAC Leading the Future ($140M) facing off against the pro-safeguards PAC Public First Action ($50M).
Why It Matters
The outcome of this political fight will determine the regulatory landscape for AI, impacting innovation, jobs, and national security for years to come.