硅谷 VC 巨头重金游说美国国防

Core Viewpoint - The venture capital giant Andreessen Horowitz (a16z) is significantly increasing its lobbying efforts in Washington, focusing on various issues including digital asset regulation, stablecoins, AI, and now defense policy, with a lobbying expenditure of $1.49 million in 2023, surpassing its industry peers [2][3]. Group 1: Lobbying Expenditures - a16z's lobbying expenditures for 2024 are projected to reach $1.8 million, a substantial increase from $950,000 in 2023 [2]. - In comparison, other major venture capital firms have much lower lobbying expenditures, with Sequoia Capital at $120,000 and General Catalyst at $500,000 [3]. Group 2: Policy Focus - a16z's lobbying strategy is characterized by a bipartisan approach, supporting candidates who advocate for a technology-driven future while opposing those who threaten significant technologies [3][5]. - The company has expanded its lobbying agenda to include national defense issues, specifically targeting the National Defense Authorization Act since Q3 2023 [4]. Group 3: Strategic Direction - a16z is actively recruiting policy talent to enhance its influence in regulated industries such as defense and industrial sectors, which are central to its "American Dynamism" business strategy [5]. - The recent hiring of Anne Neuberger, former Deputy National Security Advisor, indicates a strategic focus on American vitality, AI, and cybersecurity [5]. Group 4: Political Influence - a16z is also involved in political action committees (PACs), supporting initiatives like the new AI PAC network "Leading the Future" to further its political influence [6].