Meta Launches Super PAC to Back AI-Friendly Candidates in California

Meta Platforms Inc., the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, announced on August 26, 2025, the formation of a California-focused super PAC named "Mobilizing Economic Transformation Across California." This political action committee aims to support state-level candidates from both major parties who advocate for artificial intelligence (AI) innovation and favor less stringent technology regulations. Meta plans to invest tens of millions of dollars through this PAC, positioning itself as a significant political contributor in California ahead of the 2026 gubernatorial race. The PAC will be led by Meta’s public policy executives Brian Rice and Greg Maurer.

Brian Rice, Meta’s Vice President of Public Policy, expressed concerns about California's regulatory environment, stating, "Sacramento's regulatory environment could stifle innovation, block AI progress, and put California's technology leadership at risk." This initiative reflects Meta's strategy to influence AI policy and maintain California's leadership in the tech sector amid concerns that strict regulations could hinder innovation.

California has been proactive in pursuing AI and social media regulations. State officials are shaping rules on safety, transparency, and consumer protection that could impact tech companies' products. For instance, Senate Bill 53, introduced by Senator Scott Wiener, would require AI firms to publish safety and security protocols and issue reports when safety incidents occur. Meta has actively lobbied against such legislation, spending $518,000 in the spring to influence lawmakers in Sacramento.

Meta's approach aligns with strategies employed by other tech companies. For example, Uber and Airbnb have used campaign-focused, multi-million dollar strategies to build influence in Sacramento. Additionally, venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz and OpenAI President Greg Brockman are among those helping launch and fund "Leading the Future," a new super PAC network focused on AI.

The formation of this super PAC underscores the growing intersection between technology companies and political influence. By financially supporting candidates who favor less stringent AI regulations, Meta aims to shape the legislative environment to its advantage. This raises questions about the balance between fostering AI innovation and ensuring adequate consumer protection and ethical standards. The increasing involvement of corporate-funded super PACs in state-level elections has significant implications for democracy and the legislative process.

Meta's establishment of the "Mobilizing Economic Transformation Across California" super PAC marks a significant step in the company's efforts to influence AI policy and maintain California's leadership in the tech sector. As the 2026 gubernatorial race approaches, the impact of such corporate political contributions on the state's regulatory landscape will be closely watched.