The AI industry is buying a bigger seat at the table. OpenAI and Anthropic set records for federal lobbying in the second quarter of 2026, CNBC reported. Together they spent $3.17 million, up 23% from the first quarter.
Startups outspending giants
The individual numbers are the striking part. Anthropic spent $1.97 million, up 26% in three months. That is more than Nvidia managed, and close to Oracle’s $2 million.
OpenAI spent $1.2 million, up almost 18%. It came within $50,000 of Nvidia, which spent $1.25 million. Compared with a year ago, Anthropic’s spending has more than doubled and OpenAI’s has nearly doubled.
The two firms told Congress they lobbied on cybersecurity, copyright, cloud computing, and defence procurement. The timing is not subtle. Both are heading towards blockbuster IPOs and want a friendly reception in Washington before the November midterms.
