(Updates with Meta Platforms' response in the first three paragraphs.)

Meta Platforms (META) confirmed Tuesday that it plans to launch Mobilizing Economic Transformation Across California, a super political action committee that will back candidates regardless of party who prioritize artificial intelligence innovation and adopt policies supporting the global tech ecosystem.

Meta's Vice President of Public Policy Brian Rice said California's innovation economy has a huge impact on US economic growth, job creation, and global competitiveness.

"But Sacramento's regulatory environment could stifle innovation, block AI progress, and put California's technology leadership at risk," Rice said in an email to MT Newswires. "This is why we are launching a California super-PAC."

The company is preparing to spend tens of millions of dollars through the new California-based political arm aimed at supporting state candidates who favor "light-touch" regulation of technology, particularly AI, Politico reported Tuesday.

This move is expected to put Meta among the state's top political spenders ahead of a crowded 2026 governor's race, the report said.

The tech giant has already been investing billions of dollars and acquiring talent to compete in the AI space. The company has not ruled out direct contributions to campaigns and may release a list of endorsed candidates before the 2026 election, the report added.

Price: 750.91, Change: -2.39, Percent Change: -0.32