Public First Action raises $80M for AI advocacy, with Anthropic as its biggest backer

There’s a new heavyweight in the AI policy arena, and it’s not a tech company. Public First Action, a bipartisan 501(c)(4) nonprofit, has raised approximately $80 million across its network to push for stronger AI regulations in the US, making it one of the most well-funded advocacy operations focused on artificial intelligence oversight.

The organization was founded in 2025 by former Representatives Brad Carson, a Democrat, and Chris Stewart, a Republican.

Follow the money

The single largest disclosed donation to Public First Action came from Anthropic, the AI lab behind the Claude chatbot, which contributed $20 million in February 2026.

The organization’s network, which includes three affiliated super PACs, has raised nearly $50 million toward a target that initially ranged from $50 to $75 million for midterm activities in 2026. The combined fundraising across its entire operation is now approaching the $80 million mark as the election cycle heats up.

Public First Action was created largely as a counterweight to pro-deregulation movements within the AI community, most notably efforts led by super PACs like Leading the Future.

What they actually want

The organization’s policy priorities fall into three main buckets. First, AI transparency, meaning companies should have to disclose more about how their models work and what data they’re trained on. Second, export controls on advanced chips, which is about keeping the most powerful AI hardware out of adversarial nations’ hands. Third, opposing federal preemption of state AI laws.

Carson brings Democratic credibility on tech accountability, while Stewart, who served on the House Intelligence Committee, brings national security bona fides from the Republican side.

Public First Action is actively backing candidates in 2026 midterm races across New Jersey, Nebraska, Tennessee, New York, North Carolina, and Texas. Their affiliated super PACs are supporting candidates who favor increased regulation, regardless of party.

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