Oklahoma regulators consider new rules for AI in political ads

The Oklahoma Ethics Commission is considering new rules to govern the use of artificial intelligence in political campaigns, aiming to address concerns about transparency and accuracy ahead of the June 16 primary election. Chairman Justin Meek stated his goal is to make the rules as stringent as possible, following discussions about AI-generated ads that have circulated during the current campaign season. The commission cited a lack of current state laws requiring disclosure when AI is used to create or alter political advertisements, despite existing rules mandating disclosure for who paid for ads. Commissioners viewed examples of AI-generated videos portraying public figures in unrealistic scenarios, including U.S. political leaders in fabricated situations. Vice Chairman Adam Weintraub described many AI-generated ads as malicious and supported both legislative action and new rules. AI-generated attack ads have already targeted Republican gubernatorial candidates, with the Make Oklahoma Great Again PAC producing ads featuring Mike Mazzei alongside former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. The PAC, which supports Gentner Drummond in the race, has spent around $2.1 million on local ads, while the School Freedom Fund Oklahoma PAC disclosed spending $1.6 million. Drummond has filed a lawsuit alleging coordinated false information campaigns against him. Oklahoma is not alone in addressing AI in politics—37 states have enacted laws regulating its use, with some banning certain deepfake ads before elections. Minnesota and Texas prohibit deepfake political ads within specified periods, while Maryland has broader restrictions. The Ethics Commission’s staff has been authorized to begin drafting rules, though key questions remain about whether lawmakers will prioritize further legislative action.