In a stunning political confrontation that could reshape America’s AI future, a super PAC backed by Andreessen Horowitz and OpenAI leadership has declared war on New York Assembly member Alex Bores and his groundbreaking AI safety legislation. The battle lines are drawn between Silicon Valley’s ‘move fast and break things’ philosophy and lawmakers demanding basic AI regulation to protect public safety.
Why a16z Super PAC is Targeting AI Regulation Critics
The newly formed Leading the Future super PAC represents a $100 million war chest dedicated to defeating politicians who support AI regulation. Backed by tech titans including Andreessen Horowitz (a16z), OpenAI President Greg Brockman, Palantir co-founder Joe Lonsdale, and AI search engine Perplexity, the group has made Bores its first political target. This massive financial commitment signals Silicon Valley’s determination to prevent what they call ‘handcuffing’ American AI innovation.
Alex Bores’ Bold Response to Silicon Valley Pressure
Rather than retreating, Bores has embraced the confrontation. ‘I appreciate how straightforward they’re being about it,’ Bores told journalists at a Washington D.C. workshop. When the super PAC threatens to spend millions against him, he forwards their messages directly to constituents. The New York Assembly member, currently running for Congress, represents a district where AI anxieties are rapidly increasing among voters concerned about:
- •Data centers driving up utility costs
- •Environmental impacts worsening climate change
- •Chatbots affecting children’s mental health
- •Automation transforming job markets
The RAISE Act: Comprehensive AI Safety Legislation
At the heart of the conflict stands Bores’ bipartisan RAISE Act, currently awaiting Governor Kathy Hochul’s signature. This landmark AI regulation represents one of the most comprehensive state-level AI safety frameworks in the nation. The legislation establishes critical requirements for large AI labs:
| Requirement | Description | Penalty |
|---|---|---|
| Safety Plans | Mandatory safety protocols to prevent critical harms | Up to $30 million |
| Incident Disclosure | Reporting of safety incidents like model theft | Civil penalties |
| Risk Prohibition | Ban on releasing models with unreasonable risks | Legal enforcement |
Silicon Valley’s Fierce Opposition to AI Safety Measures
Leading the Future executives Zac Moffatt and Josh Vlasto have pledged a ‘multi-billion dollar effort’ to defeat Bores’ campaign. They argue the RAISE Act represents ‘ideological and politically motivated legislation’ that threatens American competitiveness and national security. Their core objections include:
- •Creating a patchwork of state regulations
- •Slowing American AI progress
- •Potentially allowing China to lead global AI development
- •Undermining economic growth and job creation
The Federal vs State AI Regulation Battle Intensifies
Bores defends state-level AI regulation as essential when federal action remains stagnant. ‘The question should be, has Congress solved the problem?’ Bores challenges. ‘If Congress solves the problem, then it can tell the states to get out of the way.’ He argues states function as policy laboratories, moving quickly to address emerging threats while Washington deliberates.
Building Trust Through Responsible AI Regulation
Contrary to industry claims that regulation stifles innovation, Bores positions the RAISE Act as fundamentally pro-innovation. ‘Having basic rules of the road is actually a very pro-innovation stance if done well,’ he asserts. ‘I fundamentally believe that the AI that wins is going to be the AI that is trustworthy.’ This perspective reflects growing public demand for AI systems that prioritize safety alongside capability.
Frequently Asked Questions
What companies are backing the super PAC targeting Alex Bores?
The Leading the Future super PAC receives support from Andreessen Horowitz (a16z), OpenAI President Greg Brockman, 8VC managing partner Joe Lonsdale, and Perplexity AI.
What is the RAISE Act’s current status?
The bipartisan RAISE Act has passed the New York legislature and awaits signature by Governor Kathy Hochul. If signed, it would establish comprehensive AI safety requirements for large AI laboratories operating in New York.
How does Alex Bores respond to Silicon Valley opposition?
Assembly member Alex Bores has embraced the confrontation, directly sharing super PAC threats with constituents and arguing that public trust requires reasonable AI safety regulations.
This high-stakes confrontation between a16z’s super PAC and Alex Bores represents a critical moment for AI governance. As billions flow into political campaigns and state legislatures become battlegrounds for AI policy, the outcome will determine whether America prioritizes unchecked innovation or balanced AI regulation that protects public safety while fostering technological advancement.