The newly released book, PROMISE—PROMoting AI’s Safe usage for Elections, marks a significant contribution to the discourse on the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and electoral processes. This book emerged from four years of comprehensive research and includes insights from over 30 contributors spanning academia, industry, non-profits, and government. Among the prominent contributors are Board members from the League of Women Voters of South Carolina (LWVSC), Joan Zaleski and Matthew Saltzman, who provide valuable perspectives on ensuring trustworthy electoral practices in the age of AI.
The Importance of AI in Elections
As AI continues to shape various facets of modern life, its impact on elections cannot be overlooked. The integration of AI has the potential to enhance the integrity and efficiency of electoral processes, but it also poses significant challenges, particularly regarding misinformation and the equitable representation of voters. This duality is at the heart of PROMISE, which aims to provide frameworks for harnessing AI’s capabilities while safeguarding democratic values.
Key Contributions by LWVSC Board Members
Chapter 2a: Nothing but the Truth: Voting in the Time of AI
In this chapter, Joan Zaleski, who serves as the Vice President of Voter Services for LWVSC, develops strategies for voters to navigate the information landscape shaped by AI. The primary goal is to empower citizens to make informed decisions in the face of rampant election misinformation.
Zaleski emphasizes the need for voters to recognize and understand misinformation that can distort the electoral process. The objective is to restore trust in elections, which is paramount for a functional democracy. Her recommendations help voters sift through complex information and critically evaluate the credibility of various sources.
Chapter 5b: Technology for Redistricting: Assessing and Generating District Maps
Matthew J. Saltzman, Director for Elections Systems & Technology at LWVSC, co-authored this chapter along with Anna Marie Morra and Blake Splitter. They examine the often-contentious issue of gerrymandering, wherein district boundaries are manipulated for electoral advantage.
The authors introduce a sophisticated toolkit that employs mathematical and computational techniques to detect gerrymandering, assessing the fairness and competitiveness of district maps. By providing measurable characteristics, they offer transparency in the redistricting process, ultimately advocating for systems that promote equitable representation.
Addressing Current Issues in AI and Elections
The discussions presented within PROMISE are timely, especially given the growing concerns surrounding AI’s influence on democratic engagement. Issues such as misinformation, data security, and the implications of AI-driven insights are increasingly relevant in today’s socio-political climate. With the potential for increased voter mobilization through AI-driven strategies, it’s critical to establish guidelines that protect the integrity of elections and the trust of the electorate.
The book serves not only as a scholarly resource but also as a call to action for policymakers, technologists, and citizens alike to engage in meaningful dialogue about the responsible use of AI. It underscores the necessity of inclusive conversations that encompass diverse voices, including those of young voters and marginalized communities who may be disproportionately impacted by the negative consequences of AI.
Future Engagement: Safe AI for Seniors Event
Furthering the dialogue on AI’s impact, the University of South Carolina is set to host the Safe AI for Seniors event on November 14, 2025. This event seeks to empower older adults (aged 55+) with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate an AI-driven world.
This hybrid event will feature discussions that focus on AI’s role in various sectors, such as social media, cybersecurity, finance, health, and law. Senior attendees will have the chance to engage with researchers, technical experts, and community leaders to gain a comprehensive understanding of both the benefits and risks associated with AI technology.
The collaborative efforts from academia and community organizations highlight a growing recognition of the need for responsible AI applications, particularly as they relate to vulnerable populations. By actively including seniors in these conversations, the initiative aims to foster a more inclusive and informed society.
Conclusion
PROMISE—PROMoting AI’s Safe usage for Elections serves as an essential resource for understanding the multifaceted roles that AI can play in shaping electoral integrity and engagement. The contributions from LWVSC Board members Joan Zaleski and Matthew Saltzman are a testament to the profound impact that informed advocacy can have on preserving democratic values.
As the conversation around AI continues to evolve, the importance of safeguarding our electoral processes cannot be overstated. By engaging diverse stakeholders and actively promoting transparency and equity, we can navigate the complexities of this technology in a manner that upholds the principles of democracy. Through informed action, community engagement, and scholarly exploration provided in PROMISE, a safer and more equitable electoral future can be envisioned.
For those interested in exploring these themes further, PROMISE is now available for purchase, and the upcoming Safe AI for Seniors event provides an additional avenue for community engagement and education. In our increasingly digital world, fostering understanding and ensuring responsible AI usage is a collective responsibility that requires the active participation of all citizens.
