"Generative AI: Navigating the Crossroads of Misinformation and Democracy in Elections"

Generative AI poses a significant threat to the integrity of democratic elections by enabling the creation and spread of sophisticated disinformation at scale. As the technology becomes more accessible, adversaries like China, Iran, and Russia could use it to undermine the U.S. electoral process, from voter registration to vote reporting. The responsibility to counter these threats largely falls on state and local election officials, who need support from federal agencies, voting equipment manufacturers, AI companies, the media, and voters. AI companies can contribute by developing tools to identify AI-generated content and prioritizing security in their products. Election officials are also advised to adopt best security practices and transparent communication to mitigate risks and maintain public trust in the electoral system.