CPP Director Erik Nisbet recently appeared on NBC Chicago to discuss how artificial intelligence is beginning to reshape modern political campaigns as the 2026 election cycle approaches.
The segment explored the growing use of AI-generated content in campaign advertising, including tools that can replicate voices, generate images or videos, and quickly produce tailored political messages. Campaigns are increasingly experimenting with these technologies because they can lower production costs and enable highly customized messaging to voters at scale.
Nisbet noted that while AI tools may streamline campaign communication, they also introduce new risks for democratic politics. Generative AI makes it easier to create synthetic media—such as realistic voice reproductions, altered images, or fabricated videos—that can blur the line between authentic political messaging and manipulated content.
Importantly, Nisbet explained that, unlike commercial advertising, which is subject to regulations against deceptive practices, there are currently few comparable guardrails governing how AI can be used in election campaign advertising—even when such content may mislead voters. This gap creates new challenges for transparency, accountability, and voter trust as campaigns adopt these rapidly evolving technologies.
The interview highlights CCPP’s ongoing work examining how emerging technologies—from social media platforms to generative AI—shape political communication, public opinion, and democratic governance.
▶ Watch the full NBC Chicago segment:
https://www.nbcchicago.com/video/illinois-election-2026/artificial-intelligence-politics-how-ai-impacts-modern-elections/3906064/