Major tech companies in California have invested over $39 million to influence state politics in 2025, according to CalMatters analysis. The companies donated to political campaigns, hired lobbyists, and donated to nonprofit organizations at the request of lawmakers. Critics argue that these companies use their money to gain significant influence over the legislative process. Companies such as Meta and Google claim they are supporting candidates aligned with their corporate priorities. Meta, which made $201 billion in revenue last year, transferred $20 million to a political committee it created to support candidates in favor of fewer AI regulations last July. Meanwhile, Google spent nearly $30 million last year to influence politics in California, which also included contributions worth more than $25 million to 44 committees. Since the current legislative session began in December 2024, over 50 bills that regulate AI are being considered.