AI-made political ads draw over $137 million in midterm spending
Research from the Wesleyan Media Project counts at least 220 AI-assisted political ads this cycle, with Republicans using such content more than Democrats, from light touch-ups to realistic deepfakes. Some federal lawmakers want rules on AI in campaign ads.
By Standard Topic. AI-generated from the reporting listed under Coverage. Published . Updated .
This story is no longer being updated. It reflects reporting up to .
What happened
Campaign advertising has increasingly used artificial intelligence and deepfakes, according to the Wesleyan Media Project, which tracks political ads. It has found at least $137 million spent airing at least 220 AI-assisted ads this cycle. Republicans have used A.I.-generated content more often than Democrats, ranging from subtle enhancements to convincing deepfakes.
Why it matters
The spending comes despite some federal lawmakers calling for regulation of AI in campaign ads.
Timeline
- Oct 16, 5:00 AM ET: The Wesleyan Media Project found at least $137 million spent on at least 220 ads using AI this cycle.
- Oct 16, 1:41 PM ET: Political action groups and candidates were reported to have spent over $137 million on AI-generated ads for the midterm elections.
Coverage
- Millions of dollars spent on AI-generated political ads as midterms approach (wset.com)
- $137 Million in A.I.-Generated Ads Flood the Midterms (The New York Times)
- AI Campaign Ads Flood Midterm Races Despite Calls for Regulation (news.bgov.com)
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