In its annual report presented to the Congress, the Supreme Court’s chief justice John Roberts urged caution on the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology ahead of a contentious election year in 2020.
The report highlighted the risk of bias regarding the use of AI and other technologies when used to process and analyze election data.
Roberts wrote that a “robust engagement with all stakeholders” should be utilized ahead of election season, especially in relation the use of AI.
The report also flagged the risk that AI and machine learning could be used to manipulate data, impede voting access, and infiltrate election systems.
It is important to ensure that any new technology is operating with integrity and is unbiased before it is implemented in the election system.
The report also noted the need to develop and apply “accurate, timely, and secure” technologies for election security. This would include the protection of voting machines, data storage, and the overall security of the voting ecosystem.
It is clear that the use of AI in election technology must be approached with caution, care, and security measures if it is to be applied in any meaningful way. The risks are too great to allow its wide implementation without proper consideration.
