It wasn’t a matter of “if,” but only “when.”
Artificial intelligence (AI) is everywhere and in practically everything. It is in some Shreveport election postings.
Michael Williams is a candidate for Shreveport mayor.
His likeness in a campaign Facebook posting appears to have been AI modified along with his voice in the message. (See video).
Other candidates who appear to have AI facial makeovers include Derrick Henderson, a candidate for Shreveport City Council District G, and Alvin Oliver, candidate for Shreveport City Council District E.
One can expect more AI “modifications” in campaign materials by local candidates who should review the new AI Louisiana laws as explained in Settle Talk below.
USE OF AI IN POLITICAL CAMPAIGNS NOW SUBJECT TO NEW LOUISIANA LEGISLATION
Artificial intelligence (AI) may be everywhere and practically in every advertisement, but its use in Louisiana political campaigns will be regulated as of August 1 of this year.
A new law requires anyone using AI to create or manipulate images or likenesses of political candidates as well as a candidate’s speech or conduct in campaign communications, to disclose this fact.
This legislation applies to paid political ads referring to candidates, especially those broadcast within 60 days before an election, and it applies penalties for nondisclosure. Media organizations that merely transmit such communications without input or control over the AI-generated content are exempt from disclosure requirements.
The 60-day disclosure mandate focuses on the timeframe of heightened voter attention and it aims to prevent last-minute disinformation that could significantly sway public opinion without sufficient time for factual correction or rebuttal.
The penalties include fines up to $10,000 and imprisonment for up to two years, or both.
The purpose of this measure is to protect election integrity by preventing deceptive AI-generated content. The legislation specifically targets malicious deepfakes and misleading AI imagery, rather than routine photo edits, ensuring that the public knows when they are consuming AI-generated or altered content.
Artificial intelligence is defined as “an artificial system developed in computer software, physical hardware, or other context that solves tasks requiring human-like perception, cognition, planning, learning, communication or physical action.”
Another new law requires disclosure of AI use in telephone campaign communications that use a public figure’s voice, including an elected official or public figure.