AI-generated political ads reach $137 million in US midterms

Research from the Wesleyan Media Project indicates that more than $137 million has been spent on AI-generated political advertisements during the current midterm season. The study identified over 220 videos utilizing artificial intelligence to create various forms of political content.

Findings show that nearly half of the reviewed videos featured AI-generated depictions of real politicians, and approximately 70% of these advertisements did not include a disclaimer stating that AI was used. The report notes that more than 80% of these ads were produced by Republican campaigns or Republican-aligned political action committees.

One specific example involved a fabricated video featuring New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani and Governor Kathy Hochul. The ad, produced by Republican gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman’s campaign, depicted the officials promoting a fictional “political delusion pill” without disclosing the use of AI technology.