Fake pictures. Artificial intelligence. Misinformation and voter intimidation. These are just some of the issues New York voters might face before casting their ballot during early voting and Election Day.
However, to combat these threats, Gov. Kathy Hochul and state Attorney General Letitia James announced on Monday how the Empire State is working to protect both voters and the integrity of democracy.
The election protection efforts include deploying statewide, multi-agency resources to combat misinformation — and responding to any impediments to the voting process.
“As New Yorkers cast their ballots, we are taking every measure necessary to ensure the sanctity of our democratic process so that everyone can have their voice heard,” Hochul said. “In partnership with Attorney General James and law enforcement across the state, we have established tools and protections to secure the right of all citizens to participate in this election — and we will always stand up to defend those rights against those who threaten them.”
Early voting in New York began on Oct. 26 and runs through Nov. 3. Polls open on Election Day on Nov. 5 from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. A list of early voting and Election Day polling locations can be found at ny.gov or vote.nyc.
Spotting AI deepfakes
Combating misinformation is at the top of Hochul’s voter protection list. The governor and other state officials say this misleading content often comes in the form of artificial intelligence, which can be used to create fake videos, images or audio that can misrepresent a candidate.
A popular example of this occurred during the election season last year when former Republican presidential candidate and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis was accused of distributing fake photos of Donald Trump embracing former White House Chief Medical Advisor Anthony Fauci, a relationship that was a point of contention among officials in the GOP.
Also known as “AI-created deepfakes,” photos like this can be used to spread lies about candidates, potential policies, and even where people can access polls, Attorney General James explained. In September, James released a guide to spotting AI-generated content about elections.
“New York has a long history of free and fair elections, and this year is no different,” she said. “My office has been preparing for months for a safe and smooth election process, and we will continue to do everything in our power to defend New Yorkers’ fundamental right to vote.”
Wrong information on social media
Social media users can also intentionally or unintentionally spread false information or disinformation about candidates and the voting process that could skew their followers’ choice of candidates.
Hochul explained in a press release that voters should be aware of potentially false or misleading election-related content, which can be used to create confusion and distrust in voting systems and processes, particularly when spread on social media platforms.
Voter intimidation
Under state and federal law, it is illegal for anyone to intimidate, threaten, or coerce voters in an attempt to disrupt their right to vote, the attorney general’s office explained. It is also illegal to campaign inside or within 100 feet of a polling location.
Voters in line to vote have a right to cast their ballot even when polls are about to close.
More information about how and where to vote and measures in place to protect voters is available online at the New York State Board of Elections.
The attorney general’s office has available the Election Protection Hotline to troubleshoot any issues New Yorkers voters might encounter through Nov. 6. New Yorkers can contact the hotline by calling 866-390-2992 or submitting a complaint online at electionhotline.ag.ny.gov.
