Public skepticism grows as AI and crypto super PACs pour money into the 2026 midterms

Sun, 03 May 2026 21:40:00 +0200

A new POLITICO poll shows that Americans remain wary of both artificial intelligence and cryptocurrency even as industry-backed super PACs pour huge sums into the 2026 midterm elections. The article says this creates a political risk for candidates who accept help from these groups, because the public may view the spending as another form of outsized special-interest influence.

The poll, conducted by Public First, found that many Americans think crypto is too risky and that AI is advancing too quickly. It also showed strong preference for traditional banks over crypto platforms, and broad support for tighter AI oversight. These attitudes suggest that the political advantages of big money may come with a voter backlash if the public starts associating candidates too closely with industry agendas.

The story highlights two major players: Leading the Future, a pro-AI super PAC that has raised more than $75 million, and Fairshake, a pro-crypto group that has already spent tens of millions