AI Chatbots Outperform Traditional Ads in Persuading Voters

Researchers at Yale Law School and Stanford University conducted a study that found AI chatbots can be more effective than traditional political advertisements in persuading voters to support opposing presidential candidates. The study, which involved both Democrats and Republicans, discovered that chatbots citing facts and evidence were more persuasive than ads, but often presented inaccurate information. This emerging body of research raises questions about the potential impact of generative AI on elections. According to the study, the chatbots were able to sway opinions by presenting a narrative that was both convincing and misleading. The researchers found that the most persuasive models were not always accurate, with some models presenting the most untrue information. This has significant implications for the use of AI in politics, as it suggests that chatbots could be used to manipulate public opinion. Tal Feldman, a JD candidate at Yale Law School who focuses on technology and national security, noted that the study highlights the potential risks of using AI in politics. "The fact that chatbots can be more persuasive than traditional ads is concerning, as it suggests that they could be used to manipulate public opinion," Feldman said. "We need to be aware of the potential risks and take steps to prevent the misuse of AI in politics." Aneesh Pappu, a PhD student and Knight-Hennessy scholar at Stanford University who focuses on agentic AI and technology policy, added that the study underscores the need for greater transparency and accountability in AI development. "The fact that chatbots can present inaccurate information and still be persuasive is a concern," Pappu said. "We need to ensure that AI systems are transparent and accountable, and that they are not used to manipulate public opinion." The study's findings are part of a growing body of research on the use of AI in politics. In recent years, there has been an increasing focus on the potential impact of AI on elections, including the use of AI-generated fake media and the potential for AI to be used to manipulate public opinion. The study's authors noted that the findings highlight the need for greater regulation and oversight of AI in politics. The use of AI in politics is a rapidly evolving field, and the study's findings are likely to have significant implications for the future of elections. As AI technology continues to advance, it is likely that we will see more sophisticated and persuasive AI systems being used in politics. The study's authors noted that it is essential to be aware of the potential risks and take steps to prevent the misuse of AI in politics. In related news, officials have reported an increase in the use of AI-generated fake media in politics. The use of AI-generated fake media has been a growing concern in recent years, as it has the potential to manipulate public opinion and undermine trust in institutions. The study's findings highlight the need for greater regulation and oversight of AI-generated fake media, as well as the need for greater transparency and accountability in AI development. The study's authors noted that the findings have significant implications for the future of elections and the use of AI in politics. As AI technology continues to advance, it is essential to be aware of the potential risks and take steps to prevent the misuse of AI in politics. The study's findings are a timely reminder of the need for greater regulation and oversight of AI in politics, as well as the need for greater transparency and accountability in AI development.