In the forthcoming UK elections, voters will have the unique opportunity to elect the world’s first AI lawmaker. This groundbreaking event centres around businessman Steve Endacott, who is running as an independent candidate. 

However, not Endacott but his AI-generated avatar, AI Steve, is drawing attention. Endacott, 59, who runs the company Neural Voice, is spearheading a new political party aiming to recruit AI candidates across the country, with this election marking the beginning of this ambitious initiative.

The Electoral Commission has clarified that if AI Steve wins, Steve Endacott, not the AI, will serve as the Member of Parliament (MP). It ensures that a human will fulfil an MP's legal and practical responsibilities despite the AI's involvement in the campaign.

AI Steve, representing Steve Endacott, will appear on the ballot for the Brighton Pavilion constituency in the UK's national election on July 4, 2024. Endacott describes AI Steve as an “eco-friendly capitalist with a conscience fed up with traditional politics.” This AI candidate is designed to mimic the behaviour of real politicians, including the ability to “dodge questions” effectively.

One of the standout features of AI Steve is its capacity for extensive and real-time voter interaction. AI Steve can engage in up to 10,000 conversations simultaneously and is always available for calls, ensuring that voters can reach out anytime. Powered by Neural Voice, the AI engages with voters on various important issues, including LGBTQ rights, housing, garbage collection, the Israel-Hamas war, cycling lanes, and immigration. This real-time engagement allows AI Steve to continuously provide policy ideas and seek public feedback.

The introduction of AI Steve into the political arena is a significant development, offering a new model for political engagement. This AI-driven approach ensures continuous communication and responsiveness to public needs, potentially addressing voters' frustrations with traditional politicians.

Endacott’s campaign with AI Steve marks a pioneering moment in integrating artificial intelligence into the democratic process. Endacott aims to offer a more dynamic and responsive political representation by leveraging AI technology. This initiative could pave the way for broader adoption of AI in politics, potentially transforming how politicians engage with the electorate and how policies are formulated and implemented.

Source: neural voice

Image source: AI Steve