Bob Johnston, a mayoral candidate in Sudbury, Ontario, is creatively utilizing artificial intelligence to design campaign posters, aiming to inject humor and optimism into his community. These AI-generated images depict Johnston as a cheerful cartoon figure, showcasing his distinctive prosthetic legs. One poster portrays him fixing a pothole, while another depicts him driving past the iconic Big Nickel.
Johnston expressed delight in the positive reception of his unconventional campaign signs, noting that individuals have even requested to keep the posters as mementos post-election. As municipal elections approach in Ontario this October, candidates are undergoing certification processes, with no explicit regulations governing the use of AI in advertising campaigns, according to experts consulted by CBC.
Andrea Lawlor, an associate professor of political science at McMaster University, highlighted the potential benefits of AI for political candidates, particularly in cost reduction for those lacking significant financial support. However, Lawlor also emphasized the current lack of governance in overseeing the application of AI technology in electoral campaigns.
Regarding regulatory frameworks, the City of Greater Sudbury disclosed to CBC that while there are no specific provisions within the Municipal Elections Act or local bylaws addressing AI usage in election advertising, existing regulations for political ads must still be complied with. Scott Lemke, an election law attorney at Massey LLP in Toronto, underscored that while basic AI-generated posters are generally permissible, generating “deepfakes” to deceive the public is subject to criminal prohibition.
Lawlor noted incremental progress in AI regulation, citing the passage of Bill C-25 amending the Canada Elections Act at the federal level. However, she emphasized the limited scope of the bill in imposing prohibitions or regulations on AI use, primarily cautioning against the production of deepfake content. A proposal requiring AI disclosures on provincial election advertisements in Ontario was rejected in May, underscoring the continuing need for comprehensive governance of AI applications in the political sphere.
In response to concerns raised by Sudbury residents regarding the potential impact of AI-generated content on public perception and truth discernment, Johnston defended his innovative approach, emphasizing the positive feedback he has received. Johnston underscored his motivation as a non-traditional politician driven by a genuine desire to effect positive change in his city.
Lawlor cautioned about the lack of clear guidelines for political candidates utilizing AI technology, foreseeing a period of uncertainty in electoral advertising if regulations are not promptly established. She stressed the importance of transparency and clarity in the utilization of AI, suggesting the inclusion of disclosure statements on AI-generated content to enhance public trust.
When questioned about potential AI disclosures on his campaign signs, Johnston indicated that his current AI posters were a unique endeavor and hinted at potential adjustments in the future based on evolving regulatory landscapes. Johnston expressed pride in pioneering the use of AI in his campaign, asserting the importance of proactive change to demonstrate a commitment to progress.
As the electoral landscape navigates the evolving role of AI in political communication, stakeholders advocate for swift regulatory actions to ensure the integrity and transparency of electoral processes.
