New York Governor Kathy Hochul is preparing to propose legislation that would restrict the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in political campaigns, specifically targeting AI-generated images of candidates without their consent. The proposed measures, set to be announced in her State of the State address on Tuesday, aim to curb the spread of misinformation in the critical 90-day period before elections.
Combating Deepfakes and Election Disinformation
The legislation would outlaw the deliberate dissemination of false election-related information, including incorrect dates or times. This action comes as AI-generated content, including “deepfakes,” becomes increasingly sophisticated and accessible. The Governor’s office cites the ease with which malicious actors can now manipulate public perception during elections.
“It’s easier than ever for bad actors to spread misinformation in critical moments, including those that can decide elections,” Governor Hochul stated.
The concern is not hypothetical. In 2024, Keith Wright, a former New York State Assemblyman, publicly identified an audio clip portraying him making disparaging remarks as a deepfake. This incident highlights how quickly AI-generated disinformation can spread and damage reputations.
A National Trend?
New York’s move positions it as one of the first states to proactively address AI’s potential impact on elections. While the federal government has yet to introduce comprehensive regulations, many election officials and lawmakers across the U.S. are increasingly aware of the threat.
The rapid advancement of AI technology means these issues will only become more pressing. Campaigns now face a new challenge in verifying authenticity, and voters may struggle to distinguish between real and AI-generated content.
The proposed ban in New York represents a critical step toward safeguarding democratic processes against emerging technological threats. If successful, it could set a precedent for other states to follow, establishing stronger standards for AI use in elections nationwide.
