American tech entrepreneur and investor
California’s billionaire wealth tax is facing a strong challenge as Brin and other tech leaders push back. Brin has funded Building a Better California and moved assets out of state, arguing the tax could devastate the economy. The state’s governor opposes the measure, while donors race to influence November ballots.
Outside groups have poured billions into 2026 races, with AI, crypto and political power players spending to back or thwart candidates. In NY-12, Maryland’s MD-05, and beyond, pro- and anti-AI committees are influencing races as November approaches, while individual fortunes test the limits of soft money in a polarized landscape.
A high-stakes New York Democratic primary has become a focal point in the national AI policy fight as major AI-backed PACs flood the race, backing or opposing candidate Alex Bores in the 12th district. The contest highlights how industry money is influencing regulatory debates ahead of November.
Progressive state Rep. Manny Rutinel has won the Democratic primary for Colorado’s 8th Congressional District, defeating Shannon Bird and setting up a high-stakes general election against GOP Rep. Gabe Evans. The race has drawn heavy funding from tech-aligned and Latino-focused groups as the district, which is 40% Latino, becomes a focal point for allies of both parties.