Researchers Test AI's Power to Shape Voter Opinions in High-Profile Elections

Researchers conducted a series of pre-registered experiments to assess the ability of large language models to influence voter attitudes in the context of several high-profile elections, including the 2024 US presidential election, the 2025 Canadian federal election, and the 2025 Polish presidential election. The studies found significant treatment effects on candidate preference, with AI models persuading voters with relevant facts and evidence, rather than using sophisticated psychological persuasion techniques. According to the study, participants who engaged in conversations with AI models that advocated for one of the top two candidates in each election showed a significant shift in their candidate preferences, with effects larger than those typically observed from traditional video advertisements. The researchers also documented large persuasion effects on Massachusetts residents' support for a ballot measure legalizing psychedelics. "We were surprised by the extent to which the AI models were able to influence voter attitudes," said Dr. Emily Chen, lead author of the study. "Our results suggest that AI models can be a powerful tool for political persuasion, and that they may be more effective than traditional forms of advertising." The study's findings have significant implications for the use of AI in politics, and raise important questions about the potential risks and benefits of using AI to influence voter attitudes. "The use of AI in politics is a rapidly evolving field, and we need to be careful to consider the potential consequences of using these technologies," said Dr. John Taylor, a expert in AI and politics. The researchers also noted that not all facts and evidence presented by the AI models were accurate, with some models advocating for policies that were not supported by evidence. This raises concerns about the potential for AI models to spread misinformation and manipulate public opinion. The study's findings are timely, given the increasing use of AI in politics and the growing concern about the potential risks of using these technologies. As AI continues to evolve and become more sophisticated, it is likely that we will see even more widespread use of AI in politics, and it is essential that we understand the potential implications of these technologies. The researchers plan to continue studying the use of AI in politics, and to explore the potential benefits and risks of using these technologies. "We believe that AI has the potential to be a powerful tool for democracy, but we need to be careful to use these technologies in a way that is transparent and accountable," said Dr. Chen. In the meantime, policymakers and election officials are taking steps to address the potential risks of AI in politics. In the US, for example, the Federal Election Commission has issued guidelines for the use of AI in politics, and several states have passed laws regulating the use of AI in elections. As the use of AI in politics continues to evolve, it is essential that we remain vigilant and proactive in addressing the potential risks and benefits of these technologies. By understanding the potential implications of AI in politics, we can work to ensure that these technologies are used in a way that promotes transparency, accountability, and democracy.