OpenAI Super PAC stance: Why the company avoids political donations
OpenAI says it will not fund super PACs. The company wants to stay neutral as AI rules take shape. This decision also sets it apart from rival firms. In contrast, Anthropic recently pledged $20 million to a political group. The group supports stronger rules for artificial intelligence. However, OpenAI has taken a different path.
Company Memo Explains Decision
In a staff memo, global affairs chief Chris Lehane explained the policy. He said employees can support any political cause they like. However, the company itself will not donate to political committees.
Lehane said OpenAI wants full control over its political spending. Therefore, it will avoid super PACs and similar groups. He also stressed that AI policy should rise above party politics.
Investors Still Active In Politics
Although the company stays neutral, some leaders and investors have donated privately. For example, co-founder Greg Brockman and his wife gave $25 million to a pro-Trump super PAC. In addition, several investors supported a bipartisan group called Leading the Future.
That group promotes national AI rules instead of state-level laws. It has also funded ads against candidates who push strict AI controls.
Rivalry Shapes The Policy Debate
Meanwhile, Anthropic continues to push for stronger regulation. CEO Dario Amodei often warns about AI risks. The company says it donated because it wants a balanced and flexible policy. However, its position has drawn criticism from some officials. David Sacks accused the company of using fear to shape regulation. The debate shows how divided the AI industry remains. As the US moves toward new AI rules, these choices may shape the future of the sector.
