A new political advocacy group focused on artificial intelligence infrastructure is preparing a major advertising campaign to convince voters in key states that data centres can benefit their communities.
The group, called Build American AI, is affiliated with Leading the Future (LTF), a pro-AI super PAC that has received significant financial support from technology investors, including Marc Andreessen, Ben Horowitz and OpenAI President Greg Brockman.
Build American AI Targets Data Centre Debate
Axios reported that Build American AI plans to run advertisements in Kansas, Ohio and Wisconsin, where debates over data centre development have become an issue in statewide elections.
The group said its advertising effort will have a budget of several million dollars and will focus on promoting the benefits of building AI infrastructure in local communities.
Bloomberg reported that the campaign is designed to influence public opinion around data centres as demand for AI computing infrastructure increases.
Leading the Future Pushes Pro-AI Political Agenda
Leading the Future launched with more than $50 million in funding and has primarily used its resources to support candidates who favour policies that advance artificial intelligence, according to Politico.
The super PAC has also attracted criticism over its political tactics. Some critics have raised concerns about how technology-backed advocacy groups present their positions to voters and policymakers.
OpenAI publicly addressed questions about Leading the Future, stating that the organisation operates independently and that OpenAI does not direct its activities or have visibility into its operations.
The company also said AI advocacy groups should be transparent about their policy positions, representation and campaign methods.
AI Industry Divided Over Political Advocacy
Leading the Future is not the only technology-backed political group involved in AI policy debates. Other organisations have supported different approaches, including efforts focused on AI regulation.
Reuters reported that Anthropic has supported Public First Action, a group advocating for AI regulation.
The growing political activity around AI reflects increasing debate over how the technology should be developed, regulated and deployed. Data centres have become a central part of that discussion because they provide the computing infrastructure required for modern AI systems.
The New York Times reported that Andreessen Horowitz has become one of the largest technology-sector donors in federal politics, supporting multiple policy areas including AI and cryptocurrency.
