AI Deepfake Political Ads Raise Concerns Ahead of Midterms

Bloomberg reporter Emily Birnbaum discusses how AI is reshaping US politics ahead of the midterms. AI companies have pledged $275 million through super PACs, sparking proxy battles in primaries. Deepfake ads are targeting older voters. Data centers are emerging as a local kitchen-table issue that candidates are exploiting. - AI-related super PACs have pledged $275 million for midterm races - A New York primary saw $20M+ spent by AI industry factions - Deepfake ads like fake Billie Eilish and James Talarico videos appear in races - Older low-information voters are most susceptible to deepfakes - Data centers are a growing voter concern over energy costs and water use - Candidates are using anti-data center promises to differentiate themselves - 2028 is expected to be the true presidential AI election cycle