AI industry proxy war plays out in NY House race

New York's 12th Congressional District Democratic primary has become a significant battleground for the artificial intelligence industry, with competing factions pouring millions into the race. Alex Bores, a state assembly member and former Palantir engineer, has centered his campaign on AI safety concerns, drawing substantial financial backing from AI safety groups. These groups collectively invested over $20 million in his bid.

Conversely, the Silicon Valley-backed super PAC Leading the Future has spent more than $8 million opposing Bores's nomination. This intense spending has elevated Bores's profile, making the race a closely watched contest against former Assembly member Michah Lasher, according to recent polls.

Strategists view the race as a critical test case for how AI policy debates will unfold politically and how effectively industry and safety groups can leverage campaign spending. Bores's legislative efforts, including the RAISE Act which mandates AI firms to disclose safety protocols and report incidents, have been a key point of contention and a driver of the external spending. Governor Kathy Hochul signed the bill into law late last year.