Adrian Perkins, the former mayor of Shreveport, Louisiana, faced a unique challenge during his reelection campaign. A rival political action committee used artificial intelligence to create a deepfake TV commercial portraying Perkins as a high school student being scolded by the principal for his failures in keeping communities safe and creating jobs.
Despite Perkins’ efforts, the ad resonated with voters and contributed to his loss in the 2022 race. The use of generative AI in political campaigns, though controversial, is becoming more common and poses a serious dilemma for candidates.
While some politicians like Glenn Cook in Georgia have successfully used AI models to streamline their campaigns and reach more voters, others have faced criticism for misleading tactics. Legislation aimed at regulating AI in politics has been passed in some states, but efforts at the federal level have been slow to materialize.
As the use of AI in political campaigns continues to evolve, candidates must navigate the complex landscape of digital tools and potential misinformation. The impact of AI interference on elections remains a pressing concern for lawmakers and candidates alike.