Protect Elections from Deceptive AI Act

This legislation aims to prevent the spread of misleading artificial intelligence-generated content related to federal elections. It amends the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 to prohibit the knowing distribution of materially deceptive AI-generated audio or visual media concerning candidates for Federal office, especially when intended to influence an election or solicit funds. This deceptive media is defined as AI-produced content that appears authentic but would fundamentally alter a reasonable person's understanding of a candidate's appearance, speech, or conduct, or lead them to believe inauthentic content is real. The bill includes exemptions for bona fide newscasts and news coverage by broadcasters or periodicals, provided they clearly disclose authenticity concerns, and also excludes satire or parody . Candidates whose voice or likeness is used in violation of this act can pursue civil actions, seeking injunctive relief to halt distribution or claiming damages , including attorney's fees. A violation of this act is also considered defamation per se, with the plaintiff bearing the burden of proof through clear and convincing evidence.