"Global Preparedness for AI-Driven Election Disinformation"

Experts conducted a simulation to explore the potential impact of deepfakes on the 2024 election, revealing how AI-enabled tools could rapidly spread false information and sow chaos. The exercise highlighted concerns about the readiness of federal and local officials, as well as tech companies, to counter domestic and foreign disinformation. With the decentralized electoral system facing uncharted territory, there is uncertainty about who is responsible for detecting and addressing deepfakes. The exercise also underscored the diminished cooperation between federal officials, tech companies, and researchers, leaving a potentially risky gap in safeguarding the election. Efforts are underway to encourage communication between tech executives and government officials, while concerns persist about the potential for a deadlock over the election outcome if disinformation and potential violence escalate.