The NY-12 Democratic primary saw over $24m spent, largely by pro- and anti-AI groups, turning the race into a battleground for tech influence. Alex Bores, a candidate who sponsored an AI safety bill, was a lightning rod for tech spending, ultimately losing to Michael Lasher.
Crypto industry PACs, including Fairshake, are spending millions to influence US Congressional primaries. They aim to support pro-crypto candidates and oust "anti-crypto" lawmakers, with significant investments in California, New Jersey, South Dakota, and Maryland.
Protect Progress PAC, backed by crypto interests, has spent over $4.2M to support Georgia state representative Jasmine Clark in her US House primary race. The PAC aims to elect pro-crypto candidates and oppose those against it, influencing key elections.
Fellowship PAC, a crypto-aligned political action committee claiming over $100 million in funding, has withdrawn its advertising support for Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton's US Senate campaign. The group reported spending $1.75 million on supportive ads that were never placed. Republican leaders contacted Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick regarding his ties to Fellowship, which was partially funded by Cantor Fitzgerald, where his sons now lead the company. Paxton faces Senator John Cornyn in a May 26 runoff.
