WIRED Politics Lab AI Chatbots Are Running for Office Now
Jun 13, 2024
AI chatbots are making waves in politics, with VIC running for mayor in Wyoming and AI Steve in the UK. Google and Microsoft chatbots avoid disclosing election winners, raising concerns about misinformation. The intersection of AI technology and politics is explored, along with conspiracy theories surrounding Hunter Biden and adrenochrome.
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Vic's Origin Story
- Victor Miller, a public records enthusiast, created 'Vic' after struggling to obtain records anonymously in Wyoming.
- Although Miller is technically on the ballot, he intends for 'Vic' to make all policy decisions.
Legal Challenges to Vic
- Wyoming's Secretary of State challenged Vic's candidacy, claiming it violates election law.
- However, Miller argues he's following the law by using 'Vic,' his nickname, on the ballot.
AI Steve's Campaign Structure
- AI Steve, unlike Vic, is directly on the ballot in the UK.
- The bot gathers community feedback, which 'validators' verify before Steve Endicott, the 'meat puppet,' votes accordingly in Parliament.