Comment by Linda Moore

On October 16, 2023, TechNet submitted comments to the FEC urging it to clarify that the existing “fraudulent misrepresentation” doctrine applies to deliberately deceptive AI-generated campaign content. Voters need to have confidence that the information they receive about candidates is accurate and reliable in order to make informed decisions. We believe that candidates and their agents should be barred from utilizing AI to release deliberately misleading campaign content of any other candidate or political party. We have also advocated for this prohibition at the state level. So far, 18 states have passed legislation regulating the use of deepfakes in elections. AI has the potential to help us solve the greatest challenges of our time. It is being used to predict severe weather more accurately, protect critical infrastructure, defend against cyber threats, and accelerate the development of new medical treatments, including life-saving vaccines and ways to detect earlier signs of cancer. However, recognizing and addressing the genuine risks associated with AI is crucial for its responsible advancement. That includes preventing candidates and their agents from using AI to release deliberately misleading campaign content. Unverified source (2023)