California, August 27, 2025

News Summary

Meta has announced the formation of a new political action committee (PAC) named Mobilizing Economic Transformation Across (Meta) California. This initiative aims to amplify the company’s influence in state politics by investing tens of millions of dollars in supporting bipartisan candidates who advocate for a lenient regulatory approach towards technology, particularly artificial intelligence (AI). The PAC’s establishment underscores Meta’s strategic positioning ahead of the 2026 gubernatorial race, as the tech giant seeks to combat increasing regulations that may hinder innovation in California’s competitive tech landscape.

California

Meta has announced the launch of a new political action committee (PAC) called Mobilizing Economic Transformation Across (Meta) California, in a move aimed at significantly increasing its influence in California politics. The tech giant is set to invest tens of millions of dollars into this PAC, which will support candidates for state offices who favor a light regulatory approach for technology, particularly in the realm of artificial intelligence (AI).

The initiative targets candidates from both Democratic and Republican parties who prioritize AI innovation over strict regulatory measures. This approach illustrates Meta’s strategic goals as it prepares for the upcoming 2026 gubernatorial race, where the outcome could significantly impact the company’s operational landscape in the state.

Meta’s financial commitment is expected to position the company among the leading political spenders in California. This move is similar to actions taken by other tech firms, such as Uber and Airbnb, that have sought to strengthen their political influence in Sacramento through established PACs. Meta’s existing lobbying efforts to oppose regulatory bills have displayed a clear desire to protect its interests and maintain a favorable operational environment in the tech sector.

In particular, Meta has been lobbying against Senate Bill 53, proposed by state senator Scott Wiener, which seeks to establish transparency and safety standards for large AI models. The company has already allocated over $518,000 to state lobbying efforts and has contributed $219,800 toward campaign expenditures in just the first half of the current year. Meta has also extended support to a range of down-ballot candidates from both major political parties, reflecting its bipartisan approach.

The formation of the PAC does not prevent Meta from contributing to the future gubernatorial race, especially with Governor Gavin Newsom reaching his term limit, creating an open landscape for new candidates. As the competitiveness of California’s tech-friendly environment heats up, this initiative underscores a trend among tech companies that are increasingly looking to assert their influence within state politics.

Other tech companies are not far behind in mobilizing their resources. For instance, Airbnb has pledged $15 million to support pro-tourism candidates, while a new PAC network named Leading the Future is preparing to allocate over $100 million to counter the AI safety initiatives that are gaining traction in the state. This reveals a broader context of rising tension in California where more than 50 AI-related bills have been introduced in 2023, highlighting the ongoing balance between regulatory measures and the need for innovation within the tech industry.

Meta argues that the growing regulatory environment in Sacramento could hinder technological advancement and jeopardize California’s status as a leader in tech and AI development. The PAC will be overseen by Brian Rice, Vice President of Public Policy at Meta, alongside Greg Maurer, another executive in the policy sector.

Key Highlights of Meta’s Political Action Committee

• Investment of tens of millions to support light-tech regulation candidates.
• Bipartisan support aimed at preserving AI innovation.
• Positioned among top political spenders in California.
• Opposition to state-level AI regulation initiatives.
• Responsive to the competitive landscape among tech firms in state politics.

Conclusion

As tech companies like Meta leverage their resources to influence political processes, the implications for regulatory frameworks and innovation within California’s tech landscape will be closely watched in the coming years.

FAQ

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 California Super PAC
• Fox Business: Meta Launches California Super PAC for Pro-AI Candidates
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Artificial Intelligence
• Cybernews: Meta’s California Super PAC for AI-Friendly Politicians
• Google News: Meta AI Super PAC

Author: STAFF HERE LOS ANGELES WRITER

LOS ANGELES STAFF WRITER The LOS ANGELES STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELosAngeles.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Los Angeles, Los Angeles 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 the LA Auto Show, Hollywood Film Awards, and the Los Angeles Marathon. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce and the Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board, plus leading businesses in entertainment and technology that power the local economy such as Warner Bros. and SpaceX. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.