Concerns over AI and immigration policies as elections approach

Concerns Over AI and Immigration Policies as Elections Approach

By Yvette Clarke

As the upcoming election draws near, significant concerns have emerged regarding the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the democratic process, alongside potential policy changes should former President Donald Trump return to office. The pressing issue of AI in elections has been a focal point for many, including several members of Congress.

In recent years, AI has rapidly advanced, bringing with it a suite of technologies that have raised alarms about their usage in the dissemination of misinformation and disinformation. Congresswoman Yvette Clarke, who has been an ardent advocate for the regulation of AI, emphasised this growing threat. Clarke highlighted instances such as a deepfake video of the vice president shared by Elon Musk and a cloned voice of President Joe Biden used in a robocall scam in New Hampshire, underlining the urgency for robust AI governance.

These AI-driven misinformation campaigns particularly target communities of colour. A recent report highlighted that around 40 million Americans, especially within Black online spaces, might be exposed to disinformation, which has been a recurring issue in past election cycles. Such disinformation campaigns are often orchestrated to intimidate and discourage voters of colour, undermining their participation in the democratic process.

Clarke, who serves New York’s 9th District in Brooklyn, underscored the implications of the 2024 election, especially with the potential re-election of Trump. Trump’s proposed Project 2025, a comprehensive guide published by the Heritage Foundation, outlines several radical policies aimed at restructuring various aspects of American governance and society.

A key aspect of Project 2025 is immigration reform, which includes plans for an extensive deportation program. Trump has pledged what he describes as the largest deportation operation in U.S. history, proposing the deputisation of local police to assist in identifying and arresting undocumented immigrants. This proposal has raised concerns about humanitarian impacts and family separations, as well as the potential for targeted enforcement against communities of colour.

The manifesto also calls for the elimination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for over 850,000 individuals. TPS has been a critical relief program for nationals from countries experiencing ongoing armed conflict, environmental disasters, or other extraordinary conditions. Notably, Clarke, alongside her colleagues in the Haiti Caucus, has been advocating for the expansion of TPS for Haitians amidst the nation’s turmoil.

The Caribbean community, which has deep historical ties with the United States, would be significantly impacted by these proposed policies. Contributions from Caribbean immigrants have been instrumental in shaping various facets of American life, from healthcare to culture, and notable public figures such as Shirley Chisholm, Sidney Poitier, and Harry Belafonte exemplify this influence.

In conclusion, as voters head to the polls, the discussion around AI’s impact on electoral integrity and the potential policy shifts under a Trump administration remain central concerns. These developments underscore the broader debate on the future direction of national policies and the preservation of democratic principles. Yvette Clarke, representing a diverse and culturally rich district, continues to advocate for measures that protect both technological integrity and the inclusive fabric of American society.

Source: Noah Wire Services