New York State Assemblyman Alex Bores (D-NY) is campaigning for the open 12th Congressional District seat with a focus on AI regulation [1].
The race for the Manhattan-based seat is significant because it pits a tech-focused regulatory platform against the high-profile political legacy of Jack Schlossberg, the grandson of President John F. Kennedy [1, 2].
Bores has positioned his candidacy as a challenge to the influence of AI-funded super-PACs [1, 3]. He said that AI technology and the influx of money from these political action committees pose a regulatory challenge to the democratic process [1, 3]. By emphasizing the need for oversight, Bores aims to establish himself as a tech-savvy alternative to his fellow Democratic opponent [1, 3].
The competition in New York's 12th District has become a focal point for debates over how emerging technologies impact electoral funding [3, 4]. While Schlossberg brings significant name recognition, Bores is leaning into the specific dangers of AI-driven campaign spending [1, 3].
Some voters have expressed skepticism regarding candidates' ties to the tech industry. In one instance, a voter asked Bores if he was "the Palantir guy," to which he said, "Absolutely not" [3].
Bores continues to push for a platform that prioritizes the public interest over the financial influence of the AI sector [1, 3]. He said his goal is to ensure that the representative for the district is not beholden to the interests of super-PACs funding the AI boom [1].
“"Absolutely not."”
This primary race reflects a growing tension within the Democratic party between traditional political dynasties and a new wave of candidates focusing on the disruptive impact of artificial intelligence. The focus on AI-funded super-PACs suggests that the 12th District may serve as a bellwether for how voters view the intersection of big tech wealth and electoral integrity.
