Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Campaign Finance Policy: Recent Developments (CRS Report for Congress)
| Release Date |
Revised Sept. 25, 2024 |
| Report Number |
IN12222 |
| Report Type |
Insight |
| Authors |
R. Sam Garrett |
| Source Agency |
Congressional Research Service |
| Older Revisions |
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Summary:
No federal statute or regulation specifically addresses artificial intelligence (AI) in political campaigns.
The Federal Election Campaign Act (FECA) and Federal Election Commission (FEC) regulations govern
conduct that calls for election or defeat of federal candidates or solicits funds. They also regulate some
advertisements (electioneering communications) that refer to clearly identified federal candidates during
preelection periods that do not call for election or defeat. Disclaimer requirements that mandate
attribution for communications regulated by campaign finance law appear to apply to ads created with AI.
Those requirements do not mandate that such advertising alert the audience, or regulators, to the presence
of AI-generated content. Campaign management decisions, such as which technology to use, are generally
not subject to regulation.
This updated CRS Insight discusses recent developments that could be relevant as Congress monitors or
considers legislation related to AI and campaign finance policy. It does not address legal issues. Other
CRS products provide information on generative AI and other AI policy areas.
