Quick Takeaways
- AI is influencing votes: About 8% of surveyed US adults have used chatbots to research candidates or policies ahead of the midterms.
- Answers can be wrong: Researchers found nearly 40% of election-related chatbot answers contained at least one factual error.
- Partisan sources can slip in: Chatbots often cite “pink slime” sites that look like news outlets but are politically funded—ChatGPT did so in over 70% of tested searches.
- Don’t take AI at face value: Chatbots can rely on poor information or make things up, so verify election details with trusted sources.
AI Can Help You Start, Not Decide
About half of U.S. adults have tried an AI chatbot. A recent survey found that 8% used one to learn about candidates or policies before the midterms. That makes sense: Chatbots offer quick summaries and can help voters identify questions to research.
Still, a fast answer is not always a reliable one. Use AI as a starting point, not as your guide to the ballot.
Confident Answers Can Be Wrong
In one review, nearly 40% of election-related answers from major chatbots contained at least one factual error. Some tools gave outdated voting deadlines or mixed up candidates with people who shared their names. Researchers also found that chatbots often drew on partisan sites that resemble local news outlets.
These mistakes matter. A wrong deadline can cost you your chance to vote. A false claim can shape how you view a candidate.
Check the Facts Before You Cast a Ballot
AI can still help you compare policy positions or explain unfamiliar terms. But verify every important detail. Check your state or local election office for voting rules, and read candidate information from more than one credible news source.
Then make your own decision. Chatbots can organize information, but they can also repeat weak sources or invent details when they lack an answer. Your vote deserves better than a guess.
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