AI Use in Campaign Ads Would Have to Be Disclosed Under FCC Plan

Political campaigns would be required to disclose the use of AI-generated audio, video, and images in radio and TV ads under a Federal Communications Commission proposal released Wednesday.

Advertisements urging voters to support specific candidates or issues would also be required to flag content created by algorithms, according to the proposal from Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel.

The proposal marks a first step toward regulating the use of artificial intelligence in political ads. Rosenworcel said the FCC wasn’t proposing a prohibition, “only the disclosure of any AI-generated content within political ads.” The five-person board will need to approve the proposal before debating the details and finalizing requirements.

Deepfakes—the use of AI to manipulate images, audio, and video of humans, including of President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump—have triggered widespread concerns about the technology’s ability to fuel disinformation ahead of the 2024 US election.

The proposal will likely face GOP pushback. The Senate Republican leader, Mitch McConnell (Ky.), last week denounced bipartisan proposals for cracking down on AI’s use in federal elections and require labeling on AI-generated political content to promote transparency.

State legislatures across the country are separately moving toward regulating the use of AI in political communications.

— With assistance from Tonya Riley