Flock Donations to Local Politicians’ Groups Skyrocket as Protests Against AI Cameras Mount

As activists grow increasingly frustrated with Flock, the AI-powered surveillance camera company, it has responded by dramatically increasing its donations to associations representing mayors and other local officials. In 2025, Flock has given seven times more to these groups compared to the previous three years. These donations have been made to both Democratic and Republican groups.

The practice of donating to such groups is a common strategy for companies facing scrutiny, as it can provide access to elected officials. Flock's competitors in the license-plate reader industry, Axon and Motorola Solutions, have also made significant donations. One recipient of Flock's money, the Democratic Mayors of America, defended the $30,000 donation, insisting it does not influence local mayors.

However, critics argue that such donations create the impression of a conflict of interest. A surveillance critic warned that accepting Flock's donations could lead to reputational damage for the groups receiving the funds. Flock has faced widespread criticism over concerns over civil liberties. The company was recently forced to admit that immigration officials had access to its data, despite earlier denials.

Additionally, police officers have been accused of abusing the company's database to track individuals, often former romantic partners. Flock was founded in 2017, and it started donating to 527 groups, which can raise unlimited funds from corporations and spend that money on political races, five years after its inception. The donations began at a modest level, with $20,000 to the Democratic Mayors Association and $10,000 to its Republican counterpart in 2022-2024.

Since the beginning of 2025, Flock has donated a total of $240,000 to various groups, including the Democratic and Republican Governors Associations and the Democratic and Republican Attorneys General Associations. The multi-pronged influence campaign coincided with intense pushback against Flock's practices. Several members of Congress have proposed regulations to limit its activities.

Activism against Flock has primarily occurred at the local level, with many cities and governments canceling contracts or deactivating its cameras. The controversy crosses party lines, with both Republican and Democratic officials expressing concerns. Flock is not alone in donating to political groups, as Motorola Solutions and Axon have also made significant contributions.