How Google has 'interfered' '41 times' in elections since 2008
2024-03-18
Daily Mail Online
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Multiple reports from conservative groups allege that Google's AI systems, including its Gemini chatbot and search algorithms, have interfered in 41 U.S. elections since 2008 by promoting ideological bias and manipulating information access, potentially harming democratic processes. Google denies these claims, but concerns persist over AI-driven election influence.[AI generated]
Why's our monitor labelling this an incident or hazard?
The article describes Google's use of AI-powered search algorithms and AI chatbot Gemini to influence election outcomes by favoring certain candidates and censoring others, which is a direct use of AI systems leading to harm to democratic processes and communities. The harm is realized and ongoing, as the article cites multiple election cycles and specific examples of biased algorithmic behavior. This fits the definition of an AI Incident because the AI system's use has directly or indirectly caused harm to communities and violated rights related to democratic participation. Although Google denies wrongdoing, the article's focus is on the alleged interference and its impact, not on responses or governance measures, so it is not Complementary Information. The presence of AI systems and the harm caused are clear, so it is not an AI Hazard or Unrelated event.[AI generated]