EPISODE · Mar 24, 2026 · 26 MIN
How AI and Tech Are Changing The Campaign Finance Game
from Political Breakdown · host KQED
With the 2026 midterms ahead, a flood of campaign donations is expected in California and beyond — with a growing amount coming from the tech industry, including a $500 million push by California tech billionaires. Scott and Marisa sit down with Hilary Braseth, Executive Director of the nonpartisan organization Open Secrets, to discuss what these donations could mean as the primary season gets into full swing. They also dig into the rise of hard-to-trace “dark money,” and how emerging industries like AI and crypto are using a new playbook to influence elections and policy. Check out Political Breakdown’s weekly newsletter, delivered straight to your inbox. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What this episode covers
With the 2026 midterms ahead, a flood of campaign donations is expected in California and beyond — with a growing amount coming from the tech industry, including a $500 million push by California tech billionaires. Scott and Marisa sit down with Hilary Braseth, Executive Director of the nonpartisan organization Open Secrets, to discuss what these donations could mean as the primary season gets into full swing. They also dig into the rise of hard-to-trace “dark money,” and how emerging industries like AI and crypto are using a new playbook to influence elections and policy. Check out Political Breakdown’s weekly newsletter, delivered straight to your inbox. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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How AI and Tech Are Changing The Campaign Finance Game
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