With AI playing an unprecedented role in the 2024 U.S. presidential election, concerns about cybersecurity, misinformation, and the influence of foreign and domestic actors loom large. What could this mean for the future of voting integrity?
Despite rapid advancements in AI, the Federal Election Commission (FEC) decided not to impose new regulations on its use in this election. Dr. Patrick Decks, an advisory board member at Lone Star College, highlights how AI could shape voter perception and election integrity in previously unthinkable ways.
AI can fabricate images, videos, and ads at a speed and scale previously unimaginable. For example, deep fakes—where public figures appear to say or do things they never did—are spreading rapidly on social media. Recently, altered images of Vice President Kamala Harris in a red Communist outfit circulated widely, underscoring the risk that misinformation could sway voters. AI-generated robocalls, allegedly from President Joe Biden, have also been reported, urging individuals to vote in particular ways.
“Be vigilant about what you see online,” Decks advises, pointing out that much of this content is difficult to trace once distributed, making it nearly impossible to hold responsible parties accountable.
AI poses risks not only to voter perception but also to the very infrastructure of the election. Dr. Decks explains that AI could be leveraged to infiltrate voting systems, with hackers—both foreign and domestic—targeting voter registration databases and voting machines. Such attacks could disrupt voting, delete eligible voters, or even enable individuals to vote multiple times without detection.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has designated the U.S. election system as critical infrastructure, akin to the power grid or water supply. This classification aims to protect voting systems from cyber-attacks. DHS is working alongside state and local governments to reinforce cybersecurity, although challenges remain.
“A strong cybersecurity framework is essential,” Decks emphasizes, explaining that robust protection measures are crucial to maintaining voter information and confidence. Without them, malicious actors could dismantle databases or otherwise compromise the integrity of the electoral process.
The ability of AI to target specific groups or issues makes it a potent tool for influence. According to Dr. Decks, both foreign adversaries and domestic groups have financial and political incentives to sway U.S. elections. By strategically promoting certain narratives, these actors aim to steer public opinion and potentially affect outcomes at every level—from local to federal elections.
“AI’s potential to manipulate voter perception goes beyond the presidential election; it’s already shaping local races,” Decks notes, underscoring the far-reaching implications.
As AI technology advances, it’s expected to further integrate into political processes, both legitimate and malicious. Enhanced protections, informed voters, and proactive regulations may be essential to safeguarding democratic integrity. However, with AI tools rapidly evolving, the question remains: Can election systems keep pace?
About The Author
