The Republican National Committee’s (RNC) political arm recently released a highly controversial election ad claiming that Democrats are willing to “turn America’s iconic national parks into migrant tent cities.”
The television commercial, which was produced using artificial intelligence (AI) technology, was released shortly before the November 3rd U.S. Presidential Elections. In it, the GOP accuses Democrats of offering a “green light” to migrants and asylum-seekers to enter the United States with no controls or regulations.
The GOP ad was widely criticized for its message. Democrats condemned its use of fear-mongering tactics, arguing that the pandemic has put a strain on all Americans, regardless of national origin. They also took issue with the use of computer-generated footage, which many saw as manipulative.
The commercial sparked a debate about the impact of AI on our politics. Critics argued that AI-generated ads are inherently biased and can have a powerful effect on public opinion. Others countered that AI technology can be used in positive and ethical ways, such as helping target ads more effectively and accurately.
Regardless of the ethical issues raised by the ad, it highlights the political rift between the Republican and Democratic parties. The GOP has taken a hard-line immigration policy stance in an effort to appeal to its base, while the Democrats have favored a more liberal stance, seeking to protect the rights of migrants and asylum-seekers.
It is unclear what the impact of the RNC ad will be come November 3rd. What is certain, however, is that no matter who wins the election, immigration will remain a contentious issue. In the midst of this ongoing debate, AI technology could potentially offer a way forward, if used appropriately and ethically.