In the upcoming presidential election, the threat of generative AI creating deepfakes to deceive voters has raised concerns.

Photo byArnaud JaegersonUnsplash

While Congress has been slow to address this issue, states are taking aggressive steps to combat AI-created disinformation.

Disinformation Worries

As the AI threat emerges alongside concerns about online disinformation confusing voters, states have introduced 101 bills addressing AI and election disinformation. This includes states like Oregon, Wisconsin, New Mexico, Indiana, and Utah enacting laws to address the issue. Bipartisan attention has been focused on combating this threat.

States Urged to Act

A recent report by the NewDEAL Forum emphasizes the need for states to take specific actions to combat AI-generated election disinformation. Democratic secretaries of state have provided input for this report, highlighting the importance of labeling campaign materials generated by AI and creating rapid-response systems to address disinformation.

Loopholes Seen

Despite these efforts, some measures have weaknesses or loopholes that may hinder their effectiveness in protecting voters from AI. Some laws only require disclaimers for AI-generated content from campaigns, while others lack criminal penalties for violations. The evolving nature of AI-generated content makes it challenging for states to have a clear understanding of the best approach to combat this threat.

What Are Your Thoughts?

• What additional measures do you think states should take to combat the AI threat to elections?
• How can the public be better educated to recognize AI-generated disinformation?
• Do you believe that criminal penalties are necessary to deter the spread of AI-generated disinformation?
• Are there any examples of AI disinformation that have caught your attention?

Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!