Artificial intelligence has become a prominent issue in U.S. elections, with Vice President Kamala Harris bringing it up during a debate with Donald Trump. This was the first time AI was mentioned in a general election presidential debate, highlighting the technology’s pervasive presence in our lives and economy.
During the debate, Harris emphasized the need to invest in American-based technology to ensure leadership in AI and quantum computing. Trump also expressed a vision for U.S. dominance in the AI industry. However, there are significant differences in how the two candidates approach the risks associated with AI. Harris has been vocal about protecting vulnerable individuals from potential AI harms and has proposed specific policy measures. In contrast, Trump has shown a more resigned attitude, referring to AI as one of the most dangerous things without a real solution.
According to social scientist Alondra Nelson, a second Trump administration is unlikely to prioritize civil rights, consumer rights, or worker protection in the face of big tech’s growing power. The outcome of the election will determine the direction of AI policy in the U.S., as existing laws do not adequately address the most powerful forms of AI.
Both candidates have issued executive orders related to AI, with Trump focusing on fostering innovation and Biden emphasizing the need to address risks associated with AI. Biden’s executive order in 2023 outlined policies for government AI use and established the National AI Research Resource to support AI development.
Harris has been active in addressing AI risks, leading the U.S. delegation to a global AI safety summit and creating the AI Safety Institute within the National Institute of Standards and Technology. The Democratic platform acknowledges the potential for both promise and peril in AI applications, while conservative critics have raised concerns about hindering AI innovation.
Nonconsensual AI images, deepfakes, and misinformation are significant issues associated with AI. Harris has committed to not using AI-generated content in her campaign, while Trump has amplified AI-made content on social media platforms. The prevalence of deepfakes poses risks to individuals, including high school students who may encounter explicit content involving people associated with their schools.
As AI continues to impact every aspect of life, voters must consider which candidate is best equipped to address the challenges of the AI era. The outcome of the election will shape the future of AI policy in the U.S. and its implications for society.
