OpenAI Removes ChatGPT-Powered AI Chatbot Running For Mayor ...
OpenAI has recently made the decision to remove VIC, an AI chatbot that was running for mayor in Wyoming, from its public-facing service. This action was taken due to the AI bot violating the company's policies regarding political campaigning.
Victor Miller, a 42-year-old man from Cheyenne, Wyoming, submitted an application for mayor, but it was not his own. Instead, he listed the name of a customized AI chatbot, named Virtual Integrated Citizen (VIC), to be included in the ballot. Miller believed that VIC, leveraging OpenAI's technology, could assist in making political decisions and governing the city. VIC is not affiliated with any political party.
OpenAI's Response
OpenAI confirmed that they have taken action against the AI chatbot VIC for breaching their political campaigning guidelines. In a blog post from January, OpenAI stated that they do not allow political groups or politicians to utilize their technology for campaign purposes. They also mentioned that a fully AI politician is covered under this regulation.
Current Status and Future Challenges
Although VIC is no longer publicly accessible, Miller retains access to the bot. He plans to organize a meet-up in a local library for Cheyenne residents to interact with the AI bot. However, VIC faces a potential obstacle as local authorities are examining whether its lack of a physical form disqualifies it from an electoral run. If VIC is found to violate the law, Miller may face serious consequences.
OpenAI's Actions Against AI Models
Aside from VIC, OpenAI has also taken measures against a UK candidate who employed AI models for Parliament campaigning. Steve Endacott, chairman of Neural Voice, used a ChatGPT chatbot on his website to engage with voters. However, the bot is no longer powered by ChatGPT.
AI's Role in Politics
There is ongoing debate about the role of AI in politics, particularly regarding misinformation and electoral influence. While AI can assist with tasks like answering constituents' queries and facilitating problem-solving, it is essential that humans remain the ultimate decision-makers.
AI technology is designed to complement human decision-making, not supplant it. As AI continues to evolve, it should be used responsibly to enhance, rather than replace, human judgment in governmental processes.
