Political consultant in the US charged for using AI to create Biden robocalls | U.S. & Global News

Louisiana Political Consultant Indicted for Fake Robocall Impersonating President Biden

A Louisiana political consultant, Steven Kramer, has been indicted on charges of felony voter suppression and misdemeanor impersonation of a candidate after allegedly orchestrating a fake robocall imitating U.S. President Joe Biden in an attempt to dissuade people from voting for him in New Hampshire’s Democratic primary election.

Thousands of New Hampshire residents received the robocall message, urging them not to vote until November. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has proposed a $6 million fine for the use of an AI-generated deepfake audio recording of Biden’s voice in the robocalls, citing violations of rules prohibiting the transmission of inaccurate caller ID information. Additionally, Lingo Telecom faces a $2 million fine for allegedly transmitting the robocalls.

There is growing concern in Washington about the potential for AI-generated content to mislead voters in the upcoming presidential and congressional elections. Some senators are pushing for legislation to address AI threats to election integrity before November.

New Hampshire Attorney General John Formella emphasized the state’s commitment to ensuring free and fair elections, stating that the investigation into the matter is ongoing. Formella hopes that the indictments and fines will serve as a deterrent to anyone considering interfering with elections, whether through the use of artificial intelligence or other means.

FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel has proposed requiring disclosure of AI-generated content in political ads on radio and TV, citing the expected substantial role of AI in 2024 political advertising. The FCC is particularly concerned about the potential for misleading “deep fakes” that could deceive voters.