The introduction of ChatGPT last November 30, 2022, has disrupted the field of artificial intelligence (AI), grabbing the attention of both experts and ordinary users. With its impressive ability to generate human-like text, ChatGPT has the potential to reshape elections and revolutionize the way we engage with the electoral process.
ChatGPT, an improved version of chatbots, goes beyond pre-defined responses and can carry on conversations with users. It relies on information available in cyberspace, which means it may present a mix of factual information and misinformation. This poses a challenge as it is unable to distinguish between the two.
This AI-powered application, along with similar emerging technologies, has the power to transform various aspects of electoral processes. Election management bodies, like the Commission on Elections (Comelec), should leverage ChatGPT to ensure well-informed citizens. Voter education can be made more accessible through chat-based interactions, covering topics such as registration procedures, voting guidelines, candidate information, and other important details in multiple languages.
Not only can ChatGPT benefit election management, but it also offers new opportunities for candidates and political parties to engage with voters. By utilizing AI-powered tools, they can assess voter sentiments and concerns to tailor campaign messages for different groups of voters. Instead of relying solely on traditional social media platforms, candidates can use ChatGPT to have meaningful, conversational engagement with voters and address issues that matter to them.
However, while ChatGPT and similar AI models offer immense benefits, they also present risks to the electoral process and voters. The past saw the proliferation of troll armies, spreading misinformation and propaganda on social media. Campaign strategists and propagandists could potentially weaponize ChatGPT for their own advantage by automating the dissemination of negative information or misinformation through social media.
To ensure the ethical use of AI in elections, the Comelec must formulate a framework to regulate its use. Stakeholders need to be fully aware of AI’s role in electoral processes. Fair use of AI should be clearly defined, and personal data protection laws must be adhered to. Furthermore, cybersecurity concerns must be addressed, and AI can also be employed for fact-checking purposes.
It is crucial to strike a balance between embracing AI’s potential and protecting the integrity of electoral processes. The Comelec should consider inclusivity, personal data protection, and cybersecurity as vital components when developing guidelines for AI implementation. Ultimately, the responsible and ethical use of AI will ensure public trust and confidence in elections.
The arrival of ChatGPT and AI in the electoral landscape signals a new era in elections, transforming voter education, candidate engagement, and the overall electoral process. As the Comelec and other election management bodies navigate this new territory, the ethical use of AI becomes paramount in upholding the integrity of elections. With the right approach and frameworks in place, AI can lead to more informed and inclusive electoral outcomes for our society.
