AI, crypto and Trump super PACs stockpile millions for the midterms

AI, crypto and Trump super PACs are piling up cash ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, new federal filings show. Political committees tied to cryptocurrency and artificial intelligence reported tens of millions in fundraising late last year. Their growing balances position them to shape primaries and general elections in both parties, with Washington policy outcomes as the prize.

The surge also highlights how fast tech-driven interests have built political infrastructure. These groups can now compete with long-established election machines. In a tight cycle where control of Congress is up for grabs, outside money could decide which candidates survive crowded primaries.

Crypto groups build the largest tech war chest

Pro-crypto committees ended 2025 with roughly $194 million available for spending. Most of that cash sat with Fairshake, a major super PAC backed by large crypto companies and venture capital networks. The scale suggests the industry plans to defend allies and punish opponents in races that could shape digital-asset rules for years.

Crypto-aligned groups already flexed their muscles last cycle. Fairshake and its aligned committees—Defend American Jobs and Protect Progress—spent about $290 million combined in 2024. The spending targeted Senate and House fights where outside ads helped define candidates early and drive turnout strategies.

A new pro-AI committee targets key primaries

A newer pro-AI super PAC, Leading the Future, closed 2025 with around $39 million on hand. The group raised more than $50 million between mid-August and year-end. Big donors included major names in the AI and venture capital ecosystem, signaling that AI policy could become a central midterm battleground.

Early plans show the group wants to influence open-seat primaries. It has moved against a New York candidate tied to AI safety legislation and has backed a candidate in a deep-red Texas seat. The message is clear: AI regulation and innovation policy now have dedicated, well-funded political players.

Trump’s MAGA Inc. remains a towering force

Alongside tech money, MAGA Inc.—the main super PAC aligned with President Donald Trump—ended 2025 with roughly $304 million in the bank. The committee pulled in more than $112 million in the second half of the year. Trump won’t appear on the 2026 ballot, but this cash gives him lasting influence over GOP primaries and the party’s direction.

Democrats prepare for outside spending and internal challenges

On the Democratic side, House Majority PAC raised more than $48 million and finished 2025 with about $46 million cash on hand. Meanwhile, United Democracy Project, aligned with AIPAC, raised over $61 million in the second half of 2025 and ended the year with nearly $96 million available. The group often engages in primaries and has already weighed into a New Jersey special election.

Democrats also face new primary pressure from within. Leaders We Deserve, led by activist David Hogg, says it will back younger challengers in safe blue districts. It raised more than $7.8 million in 2025 and ended the year with nearly $2.3 million on hand.

Why this money matters in 2026

Outside groups don’t just buy ads. They also shape the agenda by rewarding candidates who align with their priorities. In 2026, the battles will likely include crypto regulation, AI governance, and how much influence former President Trump keeps inside the GOP.

For related MB Daily News coverage on Trump’s political pressure and the broader power dynamics in Washington, read: Trump playfully threatens legal action against Fed nominee Warsh over interest rates .