500+ Firms Lobby U.S. on AI Policies in 2025, Doubles From 2023

Over 500 organizations have lobbied the White House and Congress on artificial intelligence policies in the first half of 2025, reflecting a sharp rise in industry efforts to shape regulatory frameworks as the sector expands. This marks a significant escalation compared to 2023, when approximately 268 organizations engaged in similar lobbying activities, with the current figure doubling within a two-year span [1]. The surge coincides with a broader push by tech firms to align policymakers with their priorities, particularly as debates over balancing innovation and oversight intensify. Key players, including OpenAI, Google, Microsoft, Amazon, and Meta, have allocated substantial resources to influence legislation, with OpenAI alone spending $1.8 million in the first half of 2025—a stark increase from $380,000 in 2023 [5]. These efforts underscore the growing recognition of AI as a cornerstone of future economic growth, with industry leaders projecting its potential to add trillions to U.S. GDP over the next decade [6].

The lobbying landscape has broadened beyond traditional tech sectors, incorporating car manufacturers, health insurers, and professional groups. Advocacy efforts focus on minimizing regulatory burdens, securing government contracts, and opposing state-level restrictions. For instance, a recent Senate vote rejecting a proposed 10-year moratorium on state AI regulations by a 99–1 margin highlighted the political pushback against industry demands for uniformity [9]. Additionally, companies are seeking federal support for AI infrastructure, such as energy resources for data centers, while facing legal challenges over antitrust cases and intellectual property disputes. Google and Meta, for example, have lobbied to dismiss lawsuits alleging misuse of intellectual property, while startups like Anthropic navigate similar legal battles [10].

The administration’s focus on streamlining AI regulations has further amplified lobbying activity. Tony Samp, an AI policy expert at DLA Piper, emphasized the government’s dual role as both a validator and a customer, framing collaboration with regulators as essential for tech firms [8]. OpenAI’s CEO, Sam Altman, has publicly urged policymakers to embrace AI’s potential, even as the company navigates controversies surrounding data usage and intellectual property. Meanwhile, concerns about falling behind China—where AI advancements are accelerating—have driven arguments for less restrictive U.S. policies, particularly as Europe adopts stringent safety frameworks [7].

The lobbying surge reflects a strategic shift in the tech industry’s relationship with government. As Tony Samp noted, the business community increasingly views the U.S. government as a key partner rather than an obstacle [8]. This dynamic is evident in the administration’s AI Action Plan, which prioritizes deregulation and streamlined permits—a strategy aligned with broader efforts to reduce bureaucratic hurdles [11]. However, the outcome of these lobbying campaigns remains uncertain, with policymakers tasked to reconcile competing interests from Big Tech, startups, and other stakeholders.

The intensity of lobbying efforts highlights a pivotal moment for AI governance. While industry leaders advocate for policies that prioritize innovation and economic gains, critics emphasize the need for safeguards against societal risks. As the debate unfolds, the final regulatory frameworks will likely determine the U.S. AI sector’s trajectory and its ability to compete globally. With diverse stakeholders pushing for competing priorities, the challenge for lawmakers lies in crafting balanced policies that foster progress without stifling ethical considerations.

Source:

[1] [500+ Firms Lobby Congress and White House on AI Policies in 2025](https://www.cryptopolitan.com/500-firms-lobby-congress-white-house-on-ai/)

[5] [Financial Times on OpenAI’s Spending](https://www.ft.com/content/df01dcf8-dbc4-4b56-8d8b-67b7e6a83eef)

[6] [Tech Executives’ Economic Projections](https://www.cryptopolitan.com/500-firms-lobby-congress-white-house-on-ai/)

[7] [Global AI Competition and Regulation Concerns](https://www.ft.com/content/2f29239f-b6d5-4d88-abeb-391045eedddb)

[8] [DLA Piper’s Tony Samp on Government’s Role](https://www.cryptopolitan.com/500-firms-lobby-congress-white-house-on-ai/)

[9] [Senate Rejects AI Regulation Moratorium](https://www.ft.com/content/df01dcf8-dbc4-4b56-8d8b-67b7e6a83eef)

[10] [Antitrust and IP Legal Battles](https://www.cryptopolitan.com/500-firms-lobby-congress-white-house-on-ai/)

[11] [Trump’s Deregulatory Focus](https://subscriber.politicopro.com/article/eenews/2025/07/21/exclusive-trump-ai-action-plan-to-slash-regulations-streamline-permits-ee-00463464)