US AI Policy Experts - Generative AI Threats To Democracy

Interview from a French journalist working on the subject of AI in the US Hi ! I'm Nathan, a French studying journalist in Cannes. I'm currently working on an article about generative AI and democracy. I read an article discussing the use of AI to send emails to lawmakers expressing disagreement about an environmental law that ultimately did not pass. I know that this kind of practice is nothing new, but it is likely to become more common over the years as AI continues to grow. Here are the questions I'd like to ask (they can be based on personal opinion or professional expertise): Is AI endangering democracies by giving a small portion of the population (private companies with their own interests or political lobbies) a powerful communication tool? What can be done to prevent AI from being used in political communication or propaganda? Who should take action to prevent it (politicians, AI companies through guidelines, consortiums, etc.)? If you live in the US, what is the current perception of AI among the population? Would you say people are, caricature-wise, against it without really understanding it, or are they more enthusiastic and supportive of the government allowing big tech companies to compete with China? Are you worried about being unfairly associated with the negative aspects of AI just because you work in this field, or have you ever felt judged because of it? You can reply to this post or message me privately, as you prefer, explaining your connection to AI from a professional or engaged perspective. If I were to use one of your answers in my article, I would prefer to include your name, but if you would rather remain anonymous, I can use a fictitious name. This article is intended to be published on Shorthand by the end of the week as part of an assessed project. Thanks to those who will respond.