AI Deepfake Political Ads Raise Concerns Ahead of Midterms

Summary

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