Senators are focusing their attention on the potential dangers posed by new artificial intelligence tools in the upcoming 2024 elections. As Congress works on developing legislation to govern this emerging technology, concerns about the potential for AI to generate misinformation are growing.
Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer emphasized the need for action to prevent AI from disrupting elections. He expressed concern that political campaigns could use AI to create completely fabricated but highly believable images and videos of candidates, distorting their statements and severely impacting their chances of winning. Moreover, Schumer raised concerns about the possibility of foreign adversaries exploiting this technology to interfere with US elections.
While Congress develops new laws, some state officials are already taking steps to address the issue. Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon informed the Senate Rules Committee that his office is collaborating with federal partners to combat AI-powered misinformation about elections. Simon stated that they are monitoring and responding to inaccuracies that could potentially develop into conspiracy theories.
Simon, along with other state officials, stressed the real threat that AI poses to the administration of elections. The concern over AI’s impact on elections extends beyond the Senate Rules Committee, as evidenced by the remarks made by Senate Select Committee on Intelligence Chairman Mark Warner. Warner expressed worries about AI tools being utilized by foreign actors to influence elections and emphasized the need for the US to be prepared for adversaries with access to these technologies.
US cyber officials are also aware of the potential risks associated with AI in elections. Air Force Lt. Gen. Timothy Haugh, during congressional hearings on his nomination to head the National Security Agency and US Cyber Command, warned about the foreign influence efforts that could be fueled by generative AI. Haugh’s experience in election defense efforts in previous years has made him apprehensive about the impact that new AI tools could have on the 2024 elections.
Efforts to address the risks of AI in elections are not limited to the Senate. The White House is working on an executive order focused on artificial intelligence, and Congress is crafting legislation to mitigate these threats. However, Senate Majority Leader Schumer has stressed the importance of not rushing the legislative process and has advocated for a methodical approach to developing AI legislation.
It is clear that the potential risks associated with AI and elections are being taken seriously by policymakers and officials. The ongoing investigation by the Senate highlights the need to address this issue promptly and ensure that safeguards are in place to protect the integrity of future elections.
