AI Ads Rise in 2026 Midterms Despite Lack of Transparency

AI-generated campaign ads are surging in the 2026 midterms, but state laws fail to ensure proper disclosure. Explore the implications and regulatory challenges.

Editorial Desk

September 26, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — New York, United States — AI-generated political advertisements have become a common feature in the 2026 midterm elections, despite a lack of consistent disclosure requirements across states. Campaigns increasingly use artificial intelligence to create content that can be misleading or deceptive, raising concerns about voter trust and transparency.

A recent ad for Bruce Blakeman, a Republican candidate for New York governor, featured AI-generated images of Democratic figures Zohran Mamdani and Kathy Hochul in a negative light. The ad did not disclose its use of AI, violating New York’s new law requiring such disclosures. Similar ads have been identified by the Wesleyan Media Project, with many failing to mention their AI origins, even in states with regulations in place.

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Experts warn that while AI can be a powerful tool for campaigns, its misuse risks eroding public trust and spreading misinformation. Calls for more comprehensive federal regulation have grown louder as the technology continues to evolve, leaving campaigns in a legal gray area. With no clear national standard, the effectiveness of state-level laws remains uncertain.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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Editorial Desk

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