Midterm Elections: AI Drives New Political Calculus

A recent poll of voters in Iowa and Ohio, published by SEMAFOR, found that the vast majority want greater regulation of artificial intelligence. This finding arrives as midterm candidates finalize their campaigns and experts assess how the technology is reshaping the political arena.

Chris Borick, a political science professor at Lehigh University, stated that AI has become a major issue in several races over the last few months. He observed that the public rhetoric surrounding the technology has changed compared to previous introductions of new tools in politics.

Borick noted that the traditional view of technology as a positive force for the political economy has faded. He said that in the last year, political positions on AI have become more neutral and, at times, negative.

The shift in political calculus has occurred in both red and blue states following public backlash. Borick said candidates are responding to attitudes about AI's impact on society, the economy, and local communities, a sentiment that has become prominent in this election cycle.

Shobita Parthasarathy, a public policy professor at the University of Michigan, identified distinct approaches between the parties. She said that for the past year and more, Republicans have maintained a position closely aligned with AI companies.

Parthasarathy stated that this alignment leads Republican candidates to focus on cost issues while avoiding broader discussions. She noted that they are less likely to advocate for a moratorium on AI development compared to their opponents.

Borick pointed to local elections as a site of potential realignment. He explained that conservatives, liberals, Republicans, and Democrats often unite in opposition to data centers or voice shared concerns about AI, creating new political groupings that transcend traditional party lines.