OpenAI and Anthropic have surpassed Nvidia in lobbying efforts in Washington.
The AI sector is increasingly asserting its influence. According to CNBC, OpenAI and Anthropic achieved record federal lobbying expenditures in the second quarter of 2026, collectively spending $3.17 million, which is a 23% increase from the first quarter.
Startups outpace major companies
The most notable aspect is the individual spending amounts. Anthropic allocated $1.97 million, reflecting a 26% growth over three months, surpassing Nvidia and nearing Oracle’s $2 million. OpenAI invested $1.2 million, an increase of nearly 18%, coming just $50,000 short of Nvidia's $1.25 million spending. Compared to a year ago, Anthropic's expenditures have more than doubled, while OpenAI's figures have nearly doubled.
The two companies informed Congress that their lobbying efforts focused on cybersecurity, copyright, cloud computing, and defense procurement. The timing is significant as both are approaching potentially significant IPOs and seek favorable reception in Washington ahead of the November midterms.
Big Tech remains steady
In contrast, established companies are not rushing to catch up. Five of the "Magnificent Seven," along with Nvidia and Tesla, collectively spent $21.25 million in the quarter, showing little change from the previous three months. Meta led with $5.99 million, though this represented a 15% decrease. Amazon's spending remained steady at approximately $4.36 million. Google increased its expenditure by 25% to $3.57 million, while Microsoft’s spending rose by 13% to $2.69 million, with shared interests in trade, China, taxes, and export controls.
Defense spending declines
The difference with the defense sector is more pronounced. The eight largest U.S. defense contractors reduced their total spending by 3.3% to $19.68 million, with Lockheed Martin at the forefront with $4.18 million, followed by RTX and General Dynamics. L3Harris experienced the most significant decline at nearly 45%, while Boeing was an exception, increasing its spending by 13% to $2.77 million.
Gaining influence
Despite the dollar amounts still favoring incumbents, as Meta alone spends more than both AI companies combined, the trend in spending is more significant than the overall totals. OpenAI and Anthropic are investing heavily in policy advocacy as they navigate copyright lawsuits, export controls, and ongoing debates on AI regulation. This aligns with OpenAI's recent strategy of hiring for policy roles and reflects broader disputes regarding China and export controls that are shaping the industry. The sector aiming to transform the economy is beginning to learn how to engage in capital advocacy.
Published July 22, 2026 - 1:28 pm UTC
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OpenAI and Anthropic have surpassed Nvidia in lobbying efforts in Washington.
OpenAI and Anthropic reached a record $3.17 million in federal lobbying during the second quarter. Anthropic alone is now spending more than Nvidia, as AI companies seek to gain influence ahead of the midterm elections.