Backed by Anthropic, a Super PAC Group Begins an Ad Blitz in Support of A.I. Regulation

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by Cecilia Kang

February 23, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

A new ad campaign launched by Public First Action, a super PAC backed by AI startup Anthropic, aims to influence the midterm elections with a focus on AI regulation. The initiative, which began airing in New Jersey, warns residents about potential risks of AI and calls for stricter safeguards against AI scams. The ads urge voters to advocate for regulations that prioritize public safety over corporate interests. The campaign's content features imagery of AI-generated women and headlines, highlighting concerns about the technology's impact. It targets Representative Josh Gottheimer, a key figure in shaping AI policies through his role on the House A.I. commission. The ad emphasizes the need for AI to serve society rather than control it, positioning regulation as a crucial step toward protecting families from potential harms. Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei has been a vocal proponent of regulating AI, contrasting the company's stance with that of OpenAI, which favors less restrictive policies. Public First Action was formed last year to counterbalance opposing super PACs supported by OpenAI leaders and investors. The $300,000 campaign in New Jersey is part of a broader strategy to influence national AI policy debates. This political battle over AI regulation reflects the growing divide between tech companies, with Anthropic advocating for stricter controls while others resist. States are also advancing their own regulations despite federal indecision. President Trump has criticized AI regulation as detrimental to US tech competitiveness, yet states continue to push ahead with laws aimed at managing AI risks. The issue is a key battleground in the midterm elections, with both industry leaders and policymakers vying for influence. Public First Action's ad blitz underscores the high stakes involved, as the outcome could shape the future of AI technology and its impact on society. This makes the debate over AI regulation one of the most critical issues to follow in today's political landscape.

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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/23/2026