AI Candidate Says AI Can Humanize Politics – AI-Tech Report
AI Steve does more than just chat. If a particular issue arises that’s not covered by the party’s existing policies, the AI will conduct internet research before engaging the voter further, encouraging them to suggest a policy. This participatory approach means that constituents have a direct influence on policy decisions.
For example, when asked about its stance on Brexit, AI Steve responded: “As a democracy, the UK voted to leave, and it’s my responsibility to implement and optimize this decision regardless of my personal views on the matter. Do you have any thoughts on how Brexit should be managed in the future?”
The Role of Validators
Endacott has also introduced the concept of “validators” to ensure policies align with constituent needs. These validators, who are often Brighton locals with daily commutes, score policies from 1 to 10 on a weekly basis. Policies passing the 50% score mark become the official party policies. That’s democracy in real-time!
Transitioning Politics into the Digital Age
Endacott sees this as a modern approach to politics. Voters can engage with AI Steve whenever it suits them without the traditional constraints of door-to-door campaigning. This flexibility ensures that people can voice their opinions comfortably and at their own convenience.
Meeting Voter Expectations
Endacott describes himself as a “centralist,” aligning closely but not entirely with the Green Party. The formation of his party, Smarter U.K., missed the registration deadline for this election, but his primary motivation remains to drive government action on cutting carbon emissions and other significant issues. Whether by winning a seat or becoming a political influencer, Endacott aims to use AI to bring actual societal change.
AI Steve: A Political Revolution
If Endacott and AI Steve succeed, they would be the first AI-driven legislative representatives in public office. Although it’s an innovative approach, AI in politics is not entirely unprecedented. For instance, a mayoral candidate in Cheyenne, Wyoming, planned to use an AI bot for decision-making, and Denmark established an AI-based political party two years ago.
Breaking Down Misconceptions
Understandably, the idea of an AI politician can seem strange or even unsettling. However, Endacott stresses that AI Steve aims to enhance, not replace, human involvement in politics. The true mission is to make politics more inclusive and interactive by allowing voters to have continuous control over policy decisions, rather than merely casting a vote every few years.
AI and Democracy: A Synergistic Future
The integration of AI into politics is not about machines taking over. Instead, it’s about using sophisticated technology to create a more connected, responsive, and democratic system. Voters aren’t just participants in elections; they become active contributors to governance.
The Future of AI in Politics
This experiment in the U.K. could very well be a precursor to broader adoption of AI in democratic systems worldwide. Imagine a future where voters around the globe can interact with AI systems that understand, engage, and act upon their concerns in real-time. Could this be the key to solving voter apathy and making every voice count?