Congress is gridlocked. These members are convinced AI legislation could break through

A bipartisan group of lawmakers has introduced new legislation aimed at preventing political campaigns and external groups from utilizing artificial intelligence to misrepresent the opinions of their rivals. This initiative arises amidst heightened concerns over the potential for AI-generated misinformation to overwhelm voters, particularly through the use of deepfake technology that can create deceptively realistic videos and images. The proposed legislation would empower the Federal Election Commission (FEC) to regulate AI in political contexts, ensuring that it aligns with existing laws against political misrepresentation. Sponsors of the bill, including Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick and Rep.

Adam Schiff, have expressed doubts about its chances of passing this year but believe it could be incorporated into more pressing legislative measures. Schiff noted that the bill represents a modest first step in tackling the challenges posed by deepfakes and other false AI-generated content. He described it as “probably the lowest hanging fruit” in addressing the misuse of AI in politics. The introduction of this legislation underscores the growing recognition among lawmakers that action is needed to combat misinformation and protect the electoral process. As Congress grapples with various issues, this bill could signify a crucial step toward establishing responsible AI regulations in political campaigns.