The increasing role of artificial intelligence in political campaigns has sparked concerns about an "AI arms race" in the 2024 election cycle. While the Federal Election Commission (FEC) isn't expected to implement new AI regulations for this election, the potential for misuse of AI-generated content, including deepfakes, is a growing concern.

The challenge lies in balancing free speech, particularly in political campaigns, with the need for ethical guidelines. Rather than strict regulations, some suggest that campaigns should establish shared ethical standards, similar to past "clean campaign pledges" or agreements on debate formats.

These standards could address issues like labeling AI-generated content and setting limits on targeted advertising. Campaigns could then highlight their adherence to these standards, potentially gaining political points, while also calling out opponents for violations.

However, the effectiveness of such agreements depends on whether candidates prioritize ethical behavior over potential political gains. If data and votes are deemed more valuable, AI limitations might be ignored. Conversely, advocating for AI limitations could itself become a political strategy.

If campaigns fail to agree on or adhere to AI limitations, voters must critically evaluate campaign materials. Third-party content labeling could help, but even limited exposure to misinformation can have lasting effects. Furthermore, labeling might inadvertently lend credibility to unlabeled content.

It's crucial to remember that AI merely amplifies existing issues. It enables faster and cheaper content creation and targeting. While tools like ChatGPT can streamline writing, they also have accuracy problems. Similarly, AI-powered data analysis, as demonstrated by Cambridge Analytica, can provide detailed voter profiles.

Public opinion remains a powerful deterrent. The potential for voter backlash against unethical AI use might discourage most candidates. Even if the FEC pursued AI regulation, its effectiveness is uncertain, given legal limitations on content regulation and the Supreme Court's Citizens United ruling.

The integration of AI into politics presents a critical juncture. Finding a balance between leveraging AI's benefits and mitigating its risks is essential for preserving the integrity of democratic processes. The goal is to ensure AI facilitates informed voter engagement without being used for manipulation or intimidation.