Global investigative journalist Garance Burke, who has led AP’s investigations of emerging artificial intelligence technologies, outlines what we’ll be watching for in the runup to Election Day and beyond:
This is effectively the first presidential election in the era of generative AI. How is AP making sure readers have accurate, nonpartisan information about the election?
Artificial intelligence is playing an influential role in the 2024 political cycle, even if the greatest fears about how it could threaten the U.S. presidential election haven’t materialized on a broad scale. Throughout the year, AP has offered a mix of stories from investigative reports into how presidential campaigns are using AI models to reach voters to daily coverage of audio deepfakes that are spreading AI-generated disinformation. The use of AI for political satire and propaganda isn’t limited to the U.S. and has been observed in elections from Indonesia to the Netherlands. More sinister deepfakes also have sought to influence races around the world.
Because the use of AI models in the political sphere affects voters of all persuasions, AP has distinguished its coverage of the technology’s impacts on the 2024 race through robust daily coverage, explanatory pieces and an investigative series called “The AI Campaign.” AP also has offered online and in-person trainings for reporters and editors on how to cover AI, highlighting opportunities for election coverage.
How does AP spot AI-generated misinformation and what do we do about it?
The speed and accessibility of generative AI tools make it easy to create outlandish political content that can drive clicks and likes. With AI image generators accessible to anyone with an internet connection, they are a cheap and convenient way for campaigns to respond to online trends and hammer home a message from local races to the presidential contest. AP is monitoring social media and campaign websites for eye-catching AI-generated photos, audio and videos that spread false messages that mislead our audiences. Our teams publish regularly on what we find to provide our audiences with the latest nonpartisan, fact-based information.
What will we be watching for on election night?
On election night, our journalists will be watching for instances in which candidates, campaigns or third parties may use AI to misinform the public about electoral processes, voter access and election results. Our reporters covering politics, democracy, misinformation and other issues will ensure that our audiences receive accurate information about the U.S. election that places AI in the appropriate context.
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