AI, Crypto Firms Spend $39M on California Politics

Major artificial intelligence and cryptocurrency companies spent more than $39 million in 2025 to influence California politics, contributing to campaigns, hiring lobbyists and making donations to nonprofits at lawmakers' requests, as the state prepares for high-stakes elections including an open governor's race.

The spending, which places tech firms at the top of California's money-in-politics rankings alongside the oil and gas industry, reflects efforts to shape emerging regulations on AI and cryptocurrency amid a flurry of legislative proposals. According to state records, the funds went toward supporting candidates and policies aligned with the companies' interests, particularly in opposing or limiting AI oversight.

Meta, the parent company of Facebook, WhatsApp and Instagram, led the expenditures with nearly $30 million directed at state politics last year. In July 2025, Meta transferred $20 million to a new political committee aimed at backing candidates who favor fewer AI regulations. The following month, it donated $150,000 to the California Democratic Party and up to $5,900 each to a bipartisan group of 20 incumbent legislators. Meta also spent at least $4.6 million on...