Protect Elections from Deceptive AI Act

This bill, called the Protect Elections from Deceptive AI Act, aims to stop fake, AI-made images, audio, or video of federal candidates that could trick voters. It bans anyone from knowingly sharing such AI content to influence an election or raise money. The bill defines “deceptive” AI media as something that looks real but would mislead a reasonable person about what a candidate looked like, said, or did.

There are narrow exceptions. News stations, streaming services, and newspapers can show the content if they clearly tell viewers or readers that its authenticity is in doubt or that it does not accurately show the candidate. Satire and parody are allowed. If someone breaks the rule, a candidate can go to court to quickly stop the spread and seek money for harm, and a judge may also award attorney’s fees. A violation will count as defamation per se in a defamation lawsuit, and the candidate must prove the case with clear and convincing evidence.

• Who is affected: Anyone, political committees, or other entities who share deceptive AI media; federal candidates are the ones protected.
• What changes: Sharing misleading AI images, audio, or video of a federal candidate to sway an election or raise money is banned; candidates can seek court orders to stop it and sue for damages, with possible attorney’s fees.
• When: Around elections and other federal election activity, when the intent is to influence an election or solicit funds.