AI bot network promotes Republican candidates and policies on X, study finds

A recent study from Clemson University revealed a network of AI-powered accounts on X that promoted Republican candidates and policies. This operation, which included at least 686 accounts, targeted key Senate races and supported voter ID laws in North Carolina. The accounts used large language models to mimic human interaction, often replying to popular posts to increase visibility. Many accounts were removed after inquiries from NBC News, but the network's activities highlighted the potential for AI to influence political discourse domestically. Researchers noted that the campaign appeared to be American, focusing on specific Republican interests. Current regulations do not require bots to disclose their nature, raising concerns about the lack of oversight in this area.