AI-generated midterm ads draw $137M in spending as voters miss fakes

Campaigns and PACs have spent over $137 million on AI-made political ads ahead of the US midterms, according to the Wesleyan Media Project. Studies show voters correctly identify deepfakes only about 16% of the time, and required AI labels often go unnoticed.

• Over $137M spent on AI political ads ahead of the Nov. 3 midterms
• In 2024, such ads drew less than $50,000 in spending
• Voters correctly spot deepfakes only about 16% of the time
• 43% of voters say an AI ad has already fooled them