AI Misinformation Threatens 2024 Election Integrity

The 2024 US presidential election season has been marred by widespread AI-driven misinformation, with platforms like Facebook and X seeing an influx of AI-generated content and deepfakes that mislead voters and influence political discourse. Concerns have risen about the integrity of election-related information, prompting New York's Attorney General to advise against relying on AI chatbots for voting guidance due to potential manipulation risks. Misinformation extends to social media, with foreign actors accused of spreading disinformation to undermine trust in the electoral process, as noted by US officials, although these claims are denied by Russia. Social media companies have faced criticism from Democratic secretaries of state for failing to adequately moderate harmful AI-generated content, which includes violent threats and misleading claims about election integrity. Meanwhile, AI's subtle yet significant impact on election campaigns is evident in microtargeting strategies that significantly influence voter persuasion. Despite these challenges, AI's role in elections is increasingly significant, reflecting its broader societal impact.