Social Science Research Council Research AMP Just Tech
Citation

When it comes to understanding AI’s impact on elections, we’re still working in the dark

Author:
Babwah Brennen, Scott; Sanderson, Zeve; de la Puerta, Cristina
Year:
2025

Experts argue that AI’s impact on elections remains unclear due to data gaps, highlighting the need for ad transparency.

AI’s role in elections remains uncertain due to limited data, gaps in research, and a lack of transparency in political ad disclosures, making it difficult to draw definitive conclusions. Despite widespread fears and early warnings, AI did not have the catastrophic impact predicted on the 2024 U.S. election, but the absence of comprehensive data means the true extent of its influence remains unclear. Improving transparency in political advertising, including clear disclosures of AI use, could provide researchers with the necessary tools to better understand AI’s potential effects on democracy and elections.