AI political groups spent $78.5M on US federal candidates in 2026 cycle

An analysis by CNBC found that AI-related political groups spent $78.5M on US federal candidates during the 2026 cycle. AI accelerationists spent $34M, while safeguard-focused groups spent $39M.

• Total AI group spending on US candidates reached $78.5M
• Accelerationists spent $34M; safeguard-focused groups spent $39M
• Silicon Valley's push for AI policy influence has split into two camps