Political campaigns increasingly use AI for ads, targeting, and outreach

In short: Political campaigns are using AI more often, both in public-facing ads and in behind-the-scenes work like targeting voters and writing messages.

What's going on

AI-made images and other synthetic media are showing up more in political advertising, including attack ads. Recent reporting cited at least 15 campaign ads with AI-generated content airing since November. Some ads include small notes saying AI was used, but disclosure rules differ depending on the state.

The bigger shift is happening out of sight. Campaigns are using AI to sort people into groups based on voter and donor data, then tailor messages to each group. Think of it like a campaign having a very fast assistant that can read huge lists of information and suggest who is most likely to donate, volunteer, or show up to vote.

Campaign teams are also using AI to draft ad scripts and direct mail text, write personalized emails and texts, and translate or simplify messages for different audiences. Some outreach now looks like a chatbot conversation, where a system responds quickly to common questions. This use is happening across parties, not just on one side.

What to watch

Rules are still catching up. Sources say there are no comprehensive federal rules that specifically cover AI in political ads, while 26 states have passed their own limits or disclosure requirements for political deepfakes (fake but convincing video or audio). Colorado and Utah also require extra “metadata” disclosures, meaning added hidden information that helps show a file was altered. Expect more state action, more debate about national standards, and more attention on how voters can tell what is real.

Source: NYTimes