Concerns Rise Over Deepfake AI Impact on 2024 Presidential Election
Consumer advocacy group Public Citizen has raised concerns about the potential impact of advanced artificial intelligence (AI) tools known as deepfakes on the upcoming 2024 presidential election. Deepfakes refer to digitally altered images and videos that have the ability to convincingly deceive viewers. These tools have already been used to create fake videos of prominent politicians such as former Presidents Barack Obama and Donald Trump, as well as House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
Robert Weissman, the president of Public Citizen, explained the potential dangers associated with deepfakes, stating, Fake videos, fake audio clips… that look real, convincingly real. The organization is urging for a ban on the use of deepfakes in campaign ads. To address this issue, the Federal Election Commission has agreed to consider the ban and will gather public feedback for 60 days before making a decision.
Public Citizen’s concern is rooted in the belief that deepfake technology has reached a level of sophistication where it can create political deepfakes that could deceive voters and potentially influence the outcome of an election. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who is running for president, and the Republican National Committee have already experimented with the use of deepfakes in their advertisements.
Weissman emphasizes the need for immediate action, stating, It is imperative that there’s action now. Public Citizen is also pushing for a ban on outside political groups, including political action committees, from creating deepfakes. However, some experts argue that regulating or banning deepfake technology may be difficult to enforce and potentially unconstitutional.
Cayce Myers, a professor at Virginia Tech, highlights the challenge of containing deepfake technology, stating, We can regulate disinformation as best we can… but it doesn’t mean we’re still not going to see that pop up into the larger communication dialogue. He also raises concerns about the potential stifling of legitimate speech that could arise from an outright ban on deepfakes.
The issue of deepfake AI technology poses a complex dilemma for policymakers. While the potential manipulation of information and deception through deepfakes is a valid concern, finding an effective solution that balances freedom of speech and preventing electoral interference remains a challenge. As the debate continues, it is crucial to consider the broader implications and impacts on democracy when addressing deepfake technology.
