When considering the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on elections, particularly in New Zealand, it is crucial to recognize that while AI can be a powerful tool, its reliance on images and videos that are created for surveillance, propaganda, and political purposes can cloud public perception. In the context of the 2025 local body elections, voters have been encouraged not to automatically trust AI-generated images and videos unless they possess the human ability to spot fake information. This transformation in how elections are conducted contradicts traditional election processes, where the focus shifts from authentic content to actionable information.
Deepfakes, a term often used in political campaigns, continue to be misused to spread lies and/headline-close votes. In the United States, during the 2016 presidential election, a deepfake message fromandidate Joe Biden was used to induce voters to vote in primary contests. Similarly, in Australia, early in the campaign, an AI-generated voice clip falsely claimed to be Biden, deterring voters from casting their ballots. This behavior has sparked debates about the ethical use of AI in politics and whether it inadvertently perpetuates cultural and political mortgages.
AI is increasingly used to generate “synthetic deepfakes,” which are images of fake people without true identity. These fakes raise serious concerns about transparency and ethics. According to experts, cultural nøg elliptstrруз in Australian and New Zealand voters have experienced a surge in these deepfake content, often without the ability to discern unless they seek to authenticate the AI-generated visuals. This issue is not limited to political contexts but extends to broader media and entertainment, where AI-driven content can spread misinformation and harm individuals.
In New Zealand, efforts to address these issues are still in progress. Central to this is New Zealand’s voluntary frameworks, which aim to establish standardized practices for AI in political messaging. The New Zealand Film Enterprise’s (NFEP) Artificial Intelligence Guiding Principles and the Government’s Public Service AI framework both emphasize transparency, respect for cultural and ethnic solidarity, and a commitment to human values such as dignity and self-determination. These guidelines provide a blueprint for how algorithms can influence public discourse without compromising the unique identity of individuals and communities.
However, neither the NFEP nor the Government has yet established explicit laws or frameworks to prevent the use of AI in political elections. While voluntary initiatives exist, such as the ACT social media account concerns, it is crucial for political parties to adopt clear ethical standards when using AI in their campaigns. This requires voters, politicians, and policymakers to accept that AI is a tool that needs to be used responsibly, ensuring transparency, cultural sensitivity, and accountability.
In summary, the influence of AI on elections in New Zealand illustrates a broader trend of increased reliance on surveillance and propaganda in politics. While AI can enhance engagement and creativity, its use poses significant risks to trustworthiness and authenticity. To address these risks, New Zealand must prioritize ethical practices, transparent governance, and the development of standardized guidelines to manage the harms of AI in political campaigns.