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The Guardian - US
The Guardian - US
World
Dara Kerr

Tech billionaires are spending unprecedented sums in California races. Experts say it’s the tip of the iceberg

Illustration of a hand cursor placing a stack of dollar bills into a ballot box amid stacks of cash
‘They’re not looking for balance.’ Illustration: Guardian Design / Getty Images

Tech billionaires have shelled out hundreds of millions of dollars ahead of the 2 June primary election in California, in an unrivaled attempt to influence who gets to run the state that Silicon Valley calls home.

The industry has used a cover-all-bases approach, funding candidates and ballot measures big and small, contributing to what looks to be the most expensive primary season in California history. The goal, experts say, is to gain both political and regulatory leverage that will perpetuate dominance in business.

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