California, August 27, 2025
News Summary
Meta Platforms Inc. has established a political action committee (PAC) named Mobilizing Economic Transformation Across (Meta) California, aiming to influence state politics by supporting candidates who favor minimal regulation of technology, especially artificial intelligence (AI). With plans to invest millions, Meta seeks to counter proposed legislation like SB 53, ensuring a landscape that promotes innovation rather than strict regulation as the 2026 gubernatorial race approaches. This initiative reflects the company’s strategy to maintain California’s leadership in technological advancement amid increasing competition from other tech firms.
California
Meta Platforms Inc. has announced the establishment of a new political action committee (PAC) called Mobilizing Economic Transformation Across (Meta) California, with plans to invest tens of millions of dollars to bolster its political standing in the state. The primary goal of this PAC is to support candidates for state offices who favor a light-touch approach to regulating technology, particularly artificial intelligence (AI).
The PAC will be open to candidates from both major political parties who advocate for innovation in AI rather than strict regulatory measures. This initiative reflects Meta’s strategy to enhance its influence in California politics as the state gears up for the 2026 gubernatorial race. Meta’s anticipated financial commitment will place it among the top political spenders in the state, positioning the company to significantly shape the dialogue around technology regulation.
As part of its initiative, Meta is actively working against proposed legislation aimed at regulating AI, such as SB 53, introduced by state Senator Scott Wiener, which seeks to establish safety and transparency standards for developers of large AI models. So far, Meta has invested more than $518,000 in state lobbying efforts and contributed $219,800 towards campaign spending in the first half of the year, while also supporting a range of down-ballot candidates from both political parties.
Background and Context
The formation of this PAC occurs amidst a significant shift in California’s political landscape. The competition among tech firms to gain influence in state politics is intensifying, as represented by similar efforts from companies like Uber and Airbnb. Each company is attempting to assert its stance on vital regulatory issues impacting their industries. Additionally, a new network named Leading the Future has emerged, which aims to neutralize the growing AI safety movement with an investment of over $100 million.
Meta’s move to create the PAC indicates a growing concern that stringent regulation could stifle innovation and undermine California’s leadership in technological advancement, especially in AI development. With over 50 new AI-related bills introduced in California within the current year, there is heightened apprehension regarding how these regulations may affect the future of AI and public safety.
Leading this new political action committee will be Brian Rice, Meta’s Vice President of Public Policy, and Greg Maurer, another executive in the policy division. Their roles will involve ensuring that the PAC effectively champions initiatives and candidates that align with Meta’s vision for the future of AI regulation.
The formation of this PAC does not exclude the possibility of financial contributions towards the upcoming gubernatorial race, which will feature an open lane due to Governor Gavin Newsom’s impending term limit. With the political environment shifting, Meta’s actions illustrate a proactive approach to maneuvering through the complexities of California’s complex political landscape as it relates to technology and innovation.
Summary
In summary, Meta’s Mobilizing Economic Transformation Across (Meta) California PAC aims to promote candidates advocating for favorable technology regulations, significantly impacting the future landscape of AI and innovation in the state as the 2026 governor race approaches.
FAQ
What is Meta’s new PAC focused on?
Meta’s new Political Action Committee (PAC), named Mobilizing Economic Transformation Across (Meta) California, is focused on supporting candidates who advocate for a light regulation of technology, specifically artificial intelligence.
How much is Meta planning to invest in this political action committee?
Meta plans to invest tens of millions of dollars into the PAC aimed at expanding its political influence in California.
What kinds of candidates will the PAC support?
The PAC will support candidates from both political parties who prioritize innovation in AI over strict regulatory measures.
What is Meta’s position regarding AI regulation?
Meta opposes stringent regulations that could hinder innovation and compromise California’s technological leadership, particularly in AI development.
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 Supporting Pro-AI Candidates
- Google Search: Meta super PAC
- Fox Business: Meta Launches California Super PAC
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Artificial Intelligence
- Cybernews: Meta California Super PAC for AI-Friendly Politicians
- Fast Company: Meta California Super PAC for AI Candidates
- KTBS: Meta to Back Pro-AI Candidates in California
Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
