California, August 27, 2025
News Summary
Meta Platforms Inc. has established a political action committee (PAC) called Mobilizing Economic Transformation Across California. This initiative will invest millions to support candidates from both major political parties who advocate for a light regulatory approach to technology, especially in artificial intelligence (AI). With California’s 2026 gubernatorial race on the horizon, Meta aims to strengthen its political influence and push back against stringent AI regulations. The PAC is led by executives from Meta and demonstrates the company’s commitment to fostering innovation in the tech sector amidst growing regulatory concerns.
California – Meta Platforms Inc. has announced plans to invest tens of millions of dollars into a new political action committee (PAC) named Mobilizing Economic Transformation Across (Meta) California. The initiative aims to support candidates for state offices who advocate for a limited regulatory approach to technology, focusing particularly on artificial intelligence (AI) advancements.
The newly formed super PAC is set to extend its backing to individuals from both major political parties who prioritize innovation in AI over stringent regulations. This decision is part of Meta’s strategy to bolster its political presence in California, especially ahead of the state’s 2026 gubernatorial race. As Meta ramps up its investment, it is likely to emerge as one of the top political spenders in the state.
Meta’s actions follow a trend among major tech companies, such as Uber and Airbnb, which have sought to enhance their political influence in Sacramento. The company has been actively lobbying against various legislative measures designed to regulate AI, including state Senator Scott Wiener’s SB 53, which proposes implementing safety and transparency standards for developers of large AI models.
So far in 2023, Meta has devoted over $518,000 to lobbying activities and contributed $219,800 towards campaign donations in the first half of the year. The PAC also backs a range of down-ballot candidates, reflecting a bipartisan approach in its funding strategy. Although the formation of the PAC focuses on state office candidates, it does not preclude potential contributions to the upcoming gubernatorial race, which will occur due to governor Gavin Newsom’s term limit.
This initiative by Meta comes amid an increasingly competitive landscape in California’s tech sector, as multiple companies work to assert their influence in state politics. Firms like Airbnb have also committed substantial resources to political action, with $15 million directed towards pro-tourism candidates. Additionally, a new super PAC network called Leading the Future has been established, pledging over $100 million to counter the AI safety movement.
Meta has expressed concerns over the potential impacts of California’s evolving regulatory framework, suggesting that restrictions could hinder innovation and diminish the state’s vital role in tech and AI development. In 2023, over 50 AI-related bills have been introduced in California, raising debates about their implications for advancements in AI and public safety.
Leading the PAC will be Brian Rice, Meta’s Vice President of Public Policy, along with Greg Maurer, another executive in the policy department. Their goal is to champion a regulatory environment that fosters innovation while navigating the challenges posed by burgeoning AI-related legislation.
As Meta seeks to carve out a space for its interests in California’s political arena, the establishment of this PAC underscores a larger narrative regarding the ongoing balance between technological advancement and regulatory oversight in one of the world’s leading tech hubs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mobilizing Economic Transformation Across California?
Mobilizing Economic Transformation Across California is a political action committee established by Meta to support candidates advocating for a light-touch regulation of technology, with an emphasis on artificial intelligence.
How much is Meta planning to invest in the PAC?
Meta plans to invest tens of millions of dollars into the new PAC.
Who can receive support from the PAC?
The PAC will support candidates from both major political parties who prioritize AI innovation and advocate against stringent technology regulations.
What is Meta’s position on current AI regulations?
Meta has been actively lobbying against regulations aimed at controlling AI, arguing that they could inhibit innovation and undermine California’s leadership in technology.
Key Features of Meta’s Political Action Committee
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Investment Amount | Tens of millions of dollars |
| Supported Candidates | Candidates from both parties favoring light regulation of AI |
| Current Lobbying Efforts | Over $518,000 spent on lobbying; $219,800 in campaign contributions in the first half of 2023 |
| PAC Leaders | Brian Rice (VP of Public Policy) and Greg Maurer (policy executive) |
| Upcoming Elections | PAC is preparing for the 2026 gubernatorial race |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Politico: Meta to Launch California Super PAC Focused on AI
- Wikipedia: Political Action Committee
- Reuters: Meta Launch California Super PAC Backing Pro-AI Candidates
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Artificial Intelligence
- Fox Business: Meta Launches California Super PAC Support Pro-AI Candidates
- Google Search: Meta super PAC
- Fast Company: Meta California Super PAC for AI Candidates
- Google Scholar: California Regulatory Framework
- KTBS: Meta to Back Pro-AI Candidates in California
- Google News: Meta AI Super PAC
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTINGTON BEACH
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