Meta's super PAC, known as a state-wide California mobilization economic transformation, will be led by Brian Rice, vice president of public policy.Francis Masculenhas/Reuters
Meta Meta-Q on Tuesday launched a California-focused political action committee, saying it would support state-level candidates who support lighter technology regulations, particularly artificial intelligence.
The group, named a super PAC, Mobilizing Economic Change across California, will support candidates in state offices of any party advocating for AI innovation over strict regulations.
Facebook and Instagram parents are expected to spend tens of millions of dollars through PACs, potentially positioning the company among the state's top political spenders ahead of the 2026 governor race.
California will elect its next governor in November 2026. Gov. Gavin Newsom's national profile has surged amid a string of conflicts with President Donald Trump, positioning him as a highly visible democratic figure.
The California Governor's Office did not immediately respond to Reuters' request for comment.
Nvidia results could create or break AI boom
Meta back candidates who prefer AI-friendly policies are consistent with their business interests as social media companies are putting billions of dollars into competing better in Silicon Valley's fierce AI races and developing new cash flows.
“The Sacramento regulatory environment can curb innovation, thwart AI progress and put California's technology leadership at risk,” said Brian Rice, vice president of meta at Public Policy.
California is one of the most offensive states in pursuing AI and social media regulations, and state officials shape safety, transparency and consumer protection rules that can affect the products of high-tech companies.
According to a company spokesperson, Rice will lead the PAC along with fellow public policy VP Greg Maurer as a key executive.
According to Politico, companies such as Uber Uber-N and Airbnb Abnb-Q used these campaign-centric multi-million-dollar strategies to build influence in Sacramento and first reported development.
Venture Capital Firm Andreessen Horowitz and Openai President Greg Brockman are among those who are helping to launch and fund Future, a new superpack network focused on AI.
