Code and Current

November is famously busy; particularly every four years with the end of campaign trails, the rush of midterm elections, and the buzz of policy announcements. For decades this season has marked a political reset, as new faces, agendas, and technologies form a new vision. However, one of the most significant recent shifts in the political arena has been the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI). With AI already reshaping sectors like healthcare, education, and entertainment, its entrance into politics is inevitable. But how exactly is AI being used in politics, and how will this change our democracy? 

The rise of AI in politics is largely driven by data. From voter demographics to active public sentiment on social media, the modern political landscape is spoiled with information. AI tools help candidates and campaign teams analyze this data quickly and effectively. According to a 2023 report by the Brooking Institution, AI-powered analytics are now used by a majority of major political campaigns in the U.S to craft targeted messages and predict voter behavior. The campaign material that floods inboxes, Explore pages, and TV ads have been influenced by an algorithm working endlessly to analyze its audiences’ digital footprint. 

AI’s influence does not stop at campaigning. Governments around the world are using AI to automate routine administrative processes, predict crime patterns, and monitor potential security threats. A 2024 article from The Atlantic highlights how the country of Estonia uses AI to assist in public service delivery, such as tax filings, unemployment claims, and court scheduling. The implementation of AI helps streamline operations and reduce bureaucratic delays, creating a more efficient government. 

However, the use of AI in politics is not without controversy. Just as AI can help detect patterns, it can also reinforce biases. A 2023 study from MIT found that predictive policing algorithms disproportionately flagged minority communities, not because of increased criminal activity, but due to biased historical data. The same risk applies to political messaging, as AI may end up amplifying misinformation if not carefully monitored.

Perhaps the most unsettling application of AI in politics is the rise of deepfakes and synthetic media. These AI-generated images, videos, and voices can make it seem like politicians said or did something they never did. According to NPR there was a significant increase in the use of deepfakes in political misinformation campaigns during the 2024 election cycle compared to 2020. While platforms like Meta and X (formerly Twitter) are taking steps to label and remove deep fakes, the technology evolves faster than regulations can keep up. 

Despite these concerns, experts emphasize that AI is not inherently harmful, and its effect is dependent on its use. Similar to its application in college admissions, where AI assists with data-heavy tasks but leaves final decisions to humans, political systems must adopt a hybrid model that leverages AI’s efficiency while safeguarding democratic values. As artificial intelligence continues to evolve, so too will its role in shaping our political systems. Used wisely, it has the potential to create more responsive and informed governments. Used carelessly, it risks undermining the very democratic processes it seeks to improve. The future of AI in politics, much like politics itself, will depend on the people guiding it.

Sources 

Brookings Institution. (2023). AI and the Future of Political Campaigns. Retrieved from https://www.brookings.edu

The Atlantic. (2024). Estonia’s AI Government: A Model for the Future?. Retrieved from https://www.theatlantic.com

MIT Technology Review. (2023). Algorithmic Bias and the Dangers of Predictive Policing. Retrieved from https://www.technologyreview.com

NPR. (2023). The Role of AI in Government: Tool or Threat?. Retrieved from https://www.npr.org